EMERGING AND RE-EMERGING VIRAL DISEASES IN 2026: EPIDEMIOLOGY, CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS, CHALLENGES, AND STRATEGIC INTERVENTIONS

The year 2026 continues to witness the global impact of emerging and re-emerging viral diseases, posing significant threats to public health systems, economies, and global preparedness frameworks. Viral pathogens such as SARS-CoV- 2 variants, Dengue virus, Zika virus, Mpox virus, and Nipah virus have demonstrated increased transmissibility, geographic expansion, and evolving clinical severity. This article comprehensively analyzes the historical background, epidemiology, clinical signs and symptoms, diagnostic approaches, and disease burden of major viral diseases reported up to 2026. Furthermore, the manuscript critically evaluates the associated risks and challenges, including viral mutation, diagnostic limitations, and healthcare inequities, along with evidence-based strategies to overcome these challenges. The study integrates tables, figures, and trend-based graphical data to support analytical discussion and aims to contribute to academic literature and policy formulation for future pandemic preparedness.