World

Scientists Issue Stark Warning: Lethal Bird Flu Pandemic Could Be ‘100 Times Worse’ Than COVID

Experts caution that the H5N1 avian flu, with recent cases emerging in mammals, including humans, poses a grave threat.

Rapid Spread and Mutation

Since its detection in 2020, the H5N1 avian flu has rapidly spread, infecting wild birds, commercial poultry, and even backyard flocks across the United States. Recent cases in mammals, notably cattle herds in four states, raise concerns about the virus’s adaptability and transmissibility.

Human Transmission Risk

A dairy worker in Texas contracting the virus underscores the potential for human transmission. Suresh Kuchipudi, a bird flu researcher, warns that H5N1, with its history of infecting a variety of hosts, including humans, presents a looming pandemic threat.

Severity and Fatality Rate

With a fatality rate of around 52% among humans infected since 2003, H5N1 could be significantly deadlier than COVID-19. Symptoms resemble those of common flu, but severe cases may lead to life-threatening pneumonia.

Also Read: Repo Rate Remains Unchanged For The Seventh Consecutive Time Followed By Monetary Policy Meeting

Response and Preparedness

Authorities are taking the situation seriously, emphasizing the importance of early detection and containment. While the current risk to the public is deemed low, surveillance and monitoring efforts are intensified.

Mutation Concerns

The detection of the virus in cattle raises alarms about potential mutations and increased transmissibility. Experts stress the need for vigilant surveillance and proactive measures to prevent widespread human transmission.

Vaccine Development

Efforts to develop vaccines against H5N1 are underway, with promising candidates identified. The US government, alongside international agencies, is actively monitoring and preparing for potential outbreaks.

Also Read: Congress Set To Reveal Its Manifesto: To Be Centred Around ‘Paanch Nyay’

Presidential Response

The Biden administration underscores the importance of public health and safety, affirming a commitment to keep communities informed and protected against emerging threats.

As the specter of a bird flu pandemic looms, collaborative efforts and proactive measures are crucial to mitigate the risks and safeguard public health on a global scale.

Naiteek Bhatt

Recent Posts

PM Modi Announces Sending Lord Buddha’s Relics To Thailand

PM Modi announced that India will send relics of Lord Buddha, discovered in Gujarat’s Aravalli…

4 hours ago

PM Modi Shares Highlights From Bangkok: A Vibrant Welcome, Community Connect, & The Ramayan!

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the deep cultural ties between India and Thailand during his…

4 hours ago

Judicial Strength At Risk, Says Delhi HC Bar Association On Justice Singh’s Transfer

The Delhi High Court Bar Association has raised concerns over Justice Chandra Dhari Singh’s transfer…

5 hours ago

PM Modi: Thailand Key To India’s ‘Act East’ Policy & Indo-Pacific Vision

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Bangkok, highlighted Thailand's strategic importance in India's…

5 hours ago

Thailand Releases Commemorative Stamp Showcasing 18th-Century Ramayan Murals During PM Modi’s Visit

Thailand unveiled a commemorative stamp featuring 18th-century Ramayan mural paintings, marking the first day of…

5 hours ago

Centuries-Old Bonds Strengthen As India-Thailand Deepen Partnership: PM Modi

PM Modi and Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra elevate India-Thailand ties to a strategic partnership in…

5 hours ago