Global atlas uncovers 55,000 RNA viruses across nearly 100 cities

by University of Hawaii at Manoa

edited by Sadie Harley, reviewed by Robert Egan

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Scientists can't prepare for future viral threats if they don't know what's already in the environment. That's the idea behind an international research project involving the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa John A. Burns School of Medicine (JABSOM), where researchers created the largest known atlas of RNA viruses found in urban and peri-urban environments worldwide.

Researchers created a baseline map of viruses that already exist in environments people encounter every day. That information could help scientists recognize unusual viral activity sooner and improve surveillance efforts during future outbreaks.

The researchers identified about 60 viruses that computer models predict could infect humans and 47 that may infect other animals. They also identified 166 viruses that appear to interact with antibiotic-resistant bacteria known as ESKAPE pathogens.

"What this study shows is that we can do viral surveillance," said Joshua Burkhart, an affiliate assistant professor in JABSOM's Department of Cell and Molecular Biology. "I don't think we can propose that we have an idea of the next pandemic, but work like this, if conducted more regularly, could help us get ahead of the next pandemic."

A vast catalog with practical uses

The study, published in Nature Communications, identified more than 55,000 RNA virus sequences collected from soil, sediment and other environmental samples across nearly 100 cities in 30 countries. About 80% of those viruses had never been documented before.

While that number may sound alarming, Burkhart says the findings should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a cause for concern.

"I don't think the results of this study recognize increased risk," said Burkhart. "Actually, I think it's a very hopeful message."

"It opens a door," Burkhart said. "The ESKAPE pathogens are the primary risk, and these viruses could open new avenues for us to develop new antibacterial agents."

Soil and sediment stand out

The study also found roughly half of the RNA viruses appear to infect bacteria, challenging the long-held belief that RNA viruses primarily infect animals.

"Soil and sediment had extremely high viral diversity," Burkhart said. "We already know there are many risks of floodwater and runoff water. I think this study emphasizes our need to study those sources even more."

Although Hawaiʻi samples were collected as part of related research, they were not included in this publication. Burkhart hopes future studies will expand environmental monitoring throughout the islands.

Publication details

Zihao Gao et al, Diversity and distinctive characteristics of the global RNA virome in urban and peri-urban environments, Nature Communications (2026). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-026-73605-z

Journal information: Nature Communications

Key medical concepts

Bacteriophages

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Infectious diseasesPreventive medicineCommon illnesses & Prevention Provided by University of Hawaii at Manoa Who's behind this story?

Sadie Harley

BSc Life Sciences & Ecology. Microbiology lab background with pharmaceutical news experience in oil, gas, and renewable industries. Full profile →

Robert Egan

Bachelor's in mathematical biology, Master's in creative writing. Well-traveled with unique perspectives on science and language. Full profile →

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