Fighting Emerging Viruses: The Critical Role of the Geneva Center for Emerging Viral Diseases
In an era where viral threats can emerge with little warning, the Centre for Emerging Viral Diseases at the Geneva University Hospitals (HUG) and the University of Geneva (UNIGE) has become a cornerstone of global health security. Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the center was formalized in 2016 following the 2014 Ebola epidemic to consolidate clinical, diagnostic, and scientific expertise.
The facility serves as a vital shield against pathogens that are either entirely new or appearing in regions where they were previously unknown. Whether dealing with Mpox in Europe, Zika in Brazil, or Ebola in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (RDC), the center’s mission remains constant: rapid identification to enable effective public health responses.
The Critical Role of Diagnostic Precision
Preparation in the field of virology often happens in the shadows during quiet periods. The center relies on advanced techniques like PCR to amplify viral genetic material, allowing for the detection of pathogens even when commercial tests are unavailable. By developing custom diagnostic tools, the team ensures they can adapt to viral mutations in real time.
A recent example of this capability occurred in the spring of 2026, when a hantavirus cluster was identified on the cruise ship MV Hondius. A Swiss traveler who had been on the ship sought care in Zurich, and his sample was sent to Geneva for analysis. Because the center could quickly confirm the presence of the Andes virus—the only hantavirus known to transmit between humans—authorities were able to implement targeted health measures immediately.
Facing Global Challenges
The center’s work extends far beyond national borders. It collaborates with the World Health Organization (WHO) and international partners to provide training and share protocols. This international network is essential, as the challenges faced by local health systems—such as the current Ebola Bundibugyo outbreak in the RDC—highlight the limitations of “closed” rapid tests that may fail to detect less common viral strains.
While the risk of a major outbreak remains low in Switzerland, the center maintains a high-security laboratory capable of working around the clock. By keeping diagnostic protocols ready, the institution ensures that if an international staff member or traveler returns with a high-pathogen virus, the medical response will be immediate and evidence-based.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an “emerging virus” according to the center?
An emerging virus is defined as either a completely new pathogen, such as the SARS-CoV-2 virus, or a known virus that is detected for the first time in a region where it was previously not endemic.
Why is the Andes virus considered particularly significant?
Among the hantaviruses transmitted to humans by rodents, the Andes virus is unique because it is the only strain currently known to be capable of human-to-human transmission.
How does the center handle virus strains for which there are no commercial tests?
The center develops its own PCR tests in-house. This allows the team to identify specific genetic sequences and modify the tests if the virus evolves or changes over time.
How do you think global scientific collaboration should evolve to better prepare for future viral threats?