Bird Flu Mutation Could Trigger Pandemic Worse Than COVID-19, Warns French Expert
A leading French virologist has issued a stark warning that a mutated bird flu virus could potentially spark a pandemic more severe than COVID-19, though the current global risk remains low.
Key Takeaways
- The highly pathogenic H5 bird flu virus is causing global concern after infecting mammals.
- If the virus mutates for human-to-human spread, it could be worse than COVID-19.
- Current risk to humans remains low with no need to alter daily routines.
- The world is better prepared for such an outbreak post-COVID-19.
Expert Warnings and Current Risk Assessment
Dr Marie-Anne Rameix-Welti of France’s Institut Pasteur explains that the H5 bird flu virus has already caused significant damage to wild bird populations and poultry worldwide. The recent jump to mammals has raised particular concern among scientists.
“If the virus mutates to allow human-to-human transmission, it could spark a pandemic potentially more severe than COVID-19,” Dr Rameix-Welti warned. She emphasized that people lack antibodies to H5 strains, creating a vulnerable population similar to the early days of the coronavirus pandemic.
The expert noted that influenza viruses can be particularly dangerous as they can kill even healthy individuals, including children.
Reassurance from Global Health Authorities
Despite the concerning possibilities, health authorities emphasize there is no immediate cause for alarm. Dr Gregorio Torres of the World Organisation for Animal Health stated that “there is no need to alter daily life, as human cases are still rare.”
Both experts agree that if such a dangerous mutation does occur, the world is now better prepared than before the COVID-19 outbreak, having learned valuable lessons about pandemic response and vaccine development.
The scientific community continues to monitor the situation closely while maintaining that current precautions are sufficient for the existing threat level.
