In a recent statement, the Saudi Ministry of Health reassures citizens and expatriates in the Kingdom, stating that there is no cause for concern regarding the recent warnings from the World Health Organization (WHO) about Disease X.

The ministry emphasized its vigilance in monitoring potential health challenges, clarifying that the WHO routinely issues warnings about hypothetical diseases, such as Disease X, which were highlighted during the 2024 Davos World Economic Forum. Notably, Disease X is described as a theoretical virus, purportedly 20 times deadlier than COVID-19.

Leaders convened at the Davos summit last Wednesday to discuss Disease X, prompting the Saudi Ministry of Health to address the public. They highlighted that annual warnings and advisories about potential epidemics are a common practice, aimed at motivating health systems and countries to enhance their capabilities in monitoring and confronting such health challenges.

The ministry stressed its constant preparedness to face any health crisis, citing the unpredictability of viruses and germs, which continually evolve. The statement acknowledged the difficulty in predicting the types and timing of epidemics due to the ever-changing nature of these infectious agents.

Referring to Disease X as the "unknown disease" of the future, the ministry asserted that viruses and germs capable of infecting humans exist in nature, often breaching natural barriers for reasons beyond human comprehension. While acknowledging the rarity of general pandemics like COVID-19, the ministry reiterated its commitment to monitoring and addressing potential health challenges.