World Health Organization,Tedros Warns H5N1 Bird Flu Could Jump To Humans, Spark Next Pandemic

World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned the next pandemic may soon wreak havoc on humanity after the “bird flu,” or H5N1, was found jumping from avians to mammals. Over the past few weeks, animals like minks, otters, foxes and sea lions have been infected with the bird flu. During a Wednesday briefing, Tedros said the H5N1 virus “needs to be monitored closely” due to the recent spread in mammals. While he admitted the virus is rarely transmitted to humans, for some unknown reason he felt it necessary to suggest this may “not remain the case.” “We must prepare for any change in the status quo,” he said. Tedros also noted WHO is working with pharmaceutical companies to make sure they’re ready with vaccines and antivirals if needed.