Global health preparedness for biosecurity threats: a review of emerging technologies and solutions

Front Public Health. 2026 Jun 5;14:1786846. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2026.1786846. eCollection 2026.

ABSTRACT

Biosecurity threats are issues of public health importance because of their implications for global health security. Although some strategies have been implemented by global organizations to mitigate risks from natural, accidental, or deliberate biological threats, empirical data on global health preparedness for biosecurity threats generally are still evolving. Hence, this study aimed to synthesize existing evidence of the role of emerging technologies in enhancing global health preparedness for biosecurity threats. Using a PRISMA-guided protocol, we conducted a systematic review of (peer-reviewed) published and grey articles regarding biosecurity preparedness and emerging technologies in PubMed, Google Scholar, and EBSCOHOST from 2015 to 2026. Extracted data were used for narrative synthesis. Most relevant and representative 51 out of a total of 349 identified papers were selected and reviewed for this study. Key technologies identified include artificial intelligence, genomic surveillance, synthetic biology, biosensors, robotics, and digital health platforms. These technologies improve outbreak detection, surveillance, and response coordination. However, challenges include dual-use risks, ethical concerns, inequitable access, and regulatory gaps. We conclude that emerging technologies offer great prospects for enhancing global health preparedness but require robust governance frameworks, equitable access, and interdisciplinary collaboration to mitigate risks and maximize benefits. A multidisciplinary approach involving synergy between relevant stakeholders is required to combat biosecurity threats, as the world has become a global village through advances in technology.

PMID:42326940 | PMC:PMC13279304 | DOI:10.3389/fpubh.2026.1786846