Objective To assess the risk of public health emergencies that may occur or be imported from abroad in China (except Hong Kong and Macao Special Administrative Regions and Taiwan region, the same below) in October 2026.

Methods Based on the reports of domestic and foreign public health emergencies and surveillance results of key infectious diseases or notifications from relevant agencies and departments, an expert consultation conference was held and experts from provincial (autonomous region and municipal) centers for disease control and prevention attended this conference via video conference.

Results The risk of imported dengue fever and chikungunya fever remains persistent. In October, the risk of local transmission in parts of southern China is projected to persist. All risk areas must effectively reduce mosquito density and enhance the diagnostic awareness of medical personnel. The Bundibugyo strain of Ebola virus disease(EVD) continues to spread in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with an expanding range of affected countries. However, the risk of its importation into China and subsequent local transmission remains low. It is still necessary to carry on health surveillance for travelers entering or returning to China from affected countries and regions, as well as preparedness for epidemic response. The risk of imported Zika virus disease remains relatively high, necessitating integrated prevention and control of multiple mosquito-borne diseases. Mpox continues to pose risks of both importation and local secondary transmission. Enhanced epidemiological investigations, joint case tracing, and multi-sectoral joint prevention and control are required. Human infections with novel influenza subtypes may occur as sporadic cases. Joint multi-departmental investigation and control efforts, as well as population risk assessment, shall be continuously strengthened. Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) has currently entered a fluctuating decline phase. We should continue to strengthen health education, raise public awareness of prevention and infection control, and deliver sound case management. Influenza activity is projected to rise, and the magnitude of the increase will most likely fall within the typical range of seasonal influenza growth. Vaccination for key populations should be actively promoted. Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) cases are projected to increase gradually in October, with southern provinces progressively entering the autumn epidemic season. Clustered outbreaks in schools and childcare facilities are on an upward trend. It is necessary to coordinate with schools and childcare institutions to roll out autumn prevention and control measures in advance, and guide key populations to take proper personal protective measures.

Conclusion Close attention should be paid to dengue, chikungunya, and general attention should be paid to EVD, Zika virus disease, mpox, human infections with novel influenza subtypes, SFTS, influenza, and HFMD, risk prevention efforts should be carried out.