Are we prepared for the next pandemic?
Scientists are expressing concerns over the insufficient collection and dissemination of data regarding the avian flu outbreak in cattle. This lack of information is hindering efforts to assess the problem's scale and control the virus. Isabela, former head of the Denis Center for Emerging Viral Diseases in Geneva, Switzerland, emphasizes that current efforts are inadequate. Although the H5N1 virus has not yet been transmitted between humans, the moment this happens, it will lead to an emergency. This situation highlights the potential for future pandemics, especially as climate change increases the likelihood of health crises. LetĂcia Sarturi, an immunology scientist, discusses the importance of monitoring infectious diseases that could lead to pandemics. Accurate data collection and dissemination are crucial for anticipating and preparing for such outbreaks. The H5N1 virus, which primarily infects birds, has shown mutations that allow it to replicate in mammals—posing a significant alert for a potential pandemic. Sarturi criticizes the inadequate epidemiological surveillance that could prevent chaos before it occurs. For effective monitoring and preparation, scientists require precise epidemiological data and genomic monitoring of viruses. The relationship between science and government is crucial; scientific discoveries must influence policy to ensure proper infrastructure for data collection and monitoring. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the dire need for improved readiness in public health. The H5N1 virus is particularly concerning due to recent infections in mammals. Despite no reported human-to-human transmission yet, the virus shows high pathogenicity in humans, raising alarms. Cases in Cambodia highlight the virus's lethal potential, and the spread of H5N1 in the Americas has shown lower lethality, which emphasizes the variability in the virus's impact. To monitor viruses like H5N1 effectively, it is essential to gather comprehensive data on virus distribution and conduct antibodies testing in potentially infected individuals. Genomic monitoring can help understand the virus's evolution, preparing the world for the possibility of human transmission. This field of pandemic pathogen monitoring has grown significantly since COVID-19, and scientists globally are actively working to improve the forecasting and tracking of infectious agents with pandemic potential.