Radzi said it is crucial for the ministry to come up with comprehensive pandemic plans, expand vaccination campaigns and set aside special pandemic funding, as suggested by the World Health Organization (WHO).

“Other than that, continuous monitoring, proactive measures, rational antibiotic use, control measures, and international cooperation are essential,” he said in a statement today.

The term “Disease X” was first used by WHO in 2018, a year before the emergence of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has claimed nearly seven million lives globally.

According to WHO, “Disease X” refers to an unknown pathogen that could cause a serious international epidemic.

Radzi said “Disease X” is expected to be more contagious than Covid-19 and may pose a mortality risk similar to Ebola.

Even so, he emphasised that the health ministry is always prepared and vigilant about the possible emergence of the unknown disease.

He reminded the public to practise healthy lifestyles, follow health guidelines and stay informed about the latest developments regarding the disease.