The science of the host-virus network

A network science framework for understanding and predicting human and animal susceptibility to viral infections is proposed. Better methods to predict and prevent the emergence of zoonotic viruses could support future efforts to reduce the risk of epidemics. We propose a network science framework for understanding and predicting human and animal susceptibility to viral infections. Related approaches have so far helped to identify basic biological rules that govern cross-species transmission and structure the global virome. We highlight ways to make modelling both accurate and actionable, and discuss the barriers that prevent researchers from translating viral ecology into public health policies that could prevent future pandemics.

Automated summary

A network science framework is proposed to understand and predict human and animal susceptibility to viral infections. The study has helped identify basic biological rules governing cross-species transmission and structure the global virome. Barriers in translating viral ecology into public health policies preventing future pandemics are discussed.