As countries continue to recover from the long-term effects of COVID-19 and remain alert after periodic outbreaks such as the Nipah virus, scientists are drawing attention to two lesser-known pathogens that could pose serious future risks. Influenza D virus and canine coronavirus are both animal-origin viruses that have already crossed into humans. Researchers warn that limited surveillance and gaps in understanding could leave the world unprepared if these viruses evolve further.
A recent review published in Emerging Infectious Diseases highlights growing concerns among infectious-disease experts. The authors argue that while these viruses have not yet caused widespread human outbreaks, their biological behavior and expanding reach warrant closer monitoring.
Influenza D and Its Expanding Animal Footprint
Influenza D virus was first identified in 2011 and was initially linked to pigs and cattle. Since then, it has been detected across a wide range of animals, including poultry, deer, giraffes, and kangaroos. Its broad host range has raised concerns among scientists about its ability to adapt and spread across species.
Within the cattle industry, influenza D is believed to play a role in bovine respiratory disease, a condition that causes significant economic damage. Industry estimates attribute roughly $1 billion in annual losses to this disease, underlining the virus’s impact on animal health and agriculture.
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High Human Exposure With Few Visible Symptoms
While influenza D has not been associated with severe illness in humans so far, studies suggest that exposure is already widespread in certain populations. Research involving cattle workers in Colorado and Florida found that up to 97 percent of those tested carried antibodies against the virus. This indicates prior exposure, even though most individuals did not report noticeable symptoms.
John Lednicky, Ph.D., a co-author of the review, explained that the absence of symptoms should not be taken as reassurance. He noted, “If these viruses evolve the capacity to easily transmit person to person, they may be able to cause epidemics or pandemics since most people won’t have immunity to them.”
Signs of Viral Adaptation
Researchers are paying close attention to recent developments suggesting influenza D may be changing. A strain isolated in China has shown characteristics consistent with human-to-human transmission. While no large outbreaks have been linked to the virus, this finding suggests it may already be adapting in ways that could increase its public health relevance.
Lednicky emphasized that current observations should not lead to complacency. “So far, influenza D virus has not been associated with serious infections in humans,” he said, adding that this assessment could change if the virus continues to evolve.
Canine Coronavirus Steps Beyond Dogs
Canine coronavirus, or CCoV, is distinct from SARS-CoV-2 and has long been considered a virus that primarily affects dogs. In recent years, however, evidence has emerged showing that certain strains can infect humans. Some of these infections have been linked to pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses.
One significant case was identified in 2021, when Lednicky’s team detected a new strain known as HuCCoV_Z19Haiti in a medical worker who had traveled from Florida to Haiti. This finding marked one of the earliest documented human infections linked to this virus group.
Human Cases Across Multiple Countries
Another strain, CCoV-HuPn-2018, was later discovered in a hospitalized child in Malaysia. Subsequent detections of the same strain in Thailand, Vietnam, and the United States indicate that it is already present across multiple regions. These findings suggest that canine coronavirus is not confined to isolated incidents and may be spreading more widely than previously understood.
Limited Data, Growing Concern
Despite these developments, researchers acknowledge that knowledge about both influenza D and canine coronavirus remains limited. In their review, the authors wrote, “Our knowledge of the viruses’ epidemiology and clinical manifestations is limited to a modest number of research studies. Even so, the limited data regarding these novel, newly detected viruses indicate that they are a major threat to public health.”
The Cost of Waiting Too Long
The researchers stress that history offers a clear lesson. If a virus achieves efficient human-to-human transmission before surveillance systems are prepared, outbreaks can escalate rapidly. Strengthening monitoring programs, improving diagnostic tools, and beginning early-stage vaccine research could significantly reduce future risks.
The warning is not about immediate panic but about preparedness. As scientists continue to study these viruses, timely action could determine whether they remain manageable threats or become the next global health emergency.
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