Global pandemic preparedness falls short amid funding cuts and public health distrust, experts warn

A Global Preparedness Monitoring Board report released in May 2026 warns that government funding cutbacks, public health distrust, and political polarization have left the world unprepared for future pandemics. The ongoing hantavirus outbreak—with three deaths and 11 confirmed/probable cases—serves as a cautionary example, though experts say pandemic risk remains low. Key concerns include declining access to diagnostics and vaccines, organized disinformation campaigns, and diminished international cooperation following policy shifts. Canada has strengthened some systems since COVID-19 but faces persistent structural challenges. Experts emphasize that pandemic preparedness requires sustained political commitment, robust surveillance, community health infrastructure, and protection against misinformation.