Title: Scientists Map 239 Human-Infective RNA Viruses to Predict Future Outbreak Risks

Scientists have mapped 239 human-infective RNA viruses to create a comprehensive dataset that tracks future outbreak risks by analyzing animal hosts, vector transmission, surveillance gaps, and viral traits that influence the path from spillover to epidemic threat.

The updated catalogue, published in Scientific Data, includes all 239 RNA virus species recognised by the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) with published evidence of human infectivity as of the end of 2024. This represents an increase of 25 species compared to the corresponding 2018 count.

Researchers compiled metadata on the date and location of the first reported human case for each virus, along with information on transmissibility in human populations, transmission routes, and host range. The dataset also provides links to publicly available genome sequence data for each virus.

The resource is designed to support studies examining the relationships between virus traits and public health threats, the phylogenetics of those traits, the geographic patterns of emerging RNA viruses, projections of future discovery rates, and estimates of global viral diversity.

The dataset is available in Excel format via figshare under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International licence, with no restrictions on use as it contains no personal information and relies solely on previously published sources.

Among the viruses included in the catalogue are well-known pathogens such as influenza viruses, SARS-CoV-2, HIV, measles virus, and hepatitis C virus, as well as less frequently reported agents like Oropouche virus and rat hepatitis E virus, which has been identified as a potential hidden cause of hepatitis in humans.

The research team emphasised that understanding the characteristics of these viruses — including their animal reservoirs, modes of transmission, and genetic diversity — is critical for anticipating and mitigating future zoonotic spillover events that could lead to outbreaks or pandemics.

By providing a standardised, evidence-based inventory of RNA viruses known to infect humans, the catalogue aims to strengthen global preparedness efforts and inform targeted surveillance strategies in regions and populations at higher risk of emerging infectious diseases.