Scientists are warning that the next global pandemic could be caused by an unknown pathogen referred to as Disease X, with influenza emerging as a potential threat. According to an international survey of senior disease experts, 57% believe that a strain of influenza virus is the most likely cause of the next major outbreak.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has also raised concerns about the potential devastating effects of seasonal flu and is urging people to take it seriously. Research from Cologne University further supports the notion that influenza poses a significant threat due to its continual evolution and mutation properties.
Experts are particularly worried about Disease X as it could emerge unexpectedly, similar to the Covid-19 pandemic, and pose a serious threat to global health. The WHO has also expressed alarm over the spread of the H5N1 strain of influenza in the US.
Pharmaceutical company consultant John Fulton has issued a warning about the H5N1 strain, stating that it could be 100 times worse than Covid-19 if it mutates and maintains its high case fatality rate. WHO records show that the fatality rate for H5N1 virus infection is over 50%, much higher than the current Covid-19 fatality rate of 0.1%.
The potential threat of influenza as the cause of the next pandemic highlights the importance of global preparedness and response measures. It is crucial to take proactive steps to monitor and control the spread of influenza viruses to prevent a future public health crisis.
