Initially, the signs are subtle: a small number of individuals falling ill, a trend that is barely noticeable in the data. Then the spread accelerates and the word “outbreak” comes up, fueling the urgency. An outbreak is more than a rise of disease; it is a challenge for science, systems and society. Outbreaks can emerge for many reasons. Some stem from the invasion of a novel pathogen. Others are fueled by antibiotic-resistant organisms that defy treatment or by environmental shifts, such as deforestation and urbanization, which bring humans closer to animal reservoirs of disease. Therefore, conducting targeted research and collaborating with experts from diverse fields is fundamental to develop effective prevention and control strategies. Our team has shown a strong dedication to addressing infectious disease outbreaks, from regional concerns such as Zika and Nipah to global emergencies such as COVID-19, tuberculosis, novel influenza and mpox. Through epidemiological studies, genomic technologies, and modelling, key challenges will be tackled in a comprehensive manner.