Leading virologists from over 40 countries have sounded the alarm over the growing threat posed by the H5N1 bird flu virus, calling on world leaders to act urgently to prevent a potential pandemic.
In a joint commentary published in The Lancet Regional Health–Americas, scientists from the Global Virus Network (GVN) urged governments to bolster surveillance, strengthen biosecurity, and prepare for the possibility of human-to-human transmission.
ALso Read:Pakistan Ranks Highest Globally in Diabetes Prevalence
“In the US, sporadic human infections with no known animal contact highlight the possibility of viral adaptation,” the researchers noted, pointing to concerning genetic shifts in the virus.
The H5N1 virus—known to cause pneumonia, fever, and severe fatigue in humans—has now been detected in wild birds and domestic animals across all 50 U.S. states and Canada. Since 2022, over 168 million poultry have died or been culled, and at least 70 human infections have been recorded, including one death.
Key recommendations from the GVN include:
- Enhanced testing of animal products and wastewater
- Increased sharing of genomic data
- Rapid self-diagnostic test development
- Protection measures for frontline workers
- Accelerated vaccine and therapeutic research
“A robust nationwide monitoring system is essential to quickly detect and quarantine affected animals,” said Elyse Stachler, a GVN researcher at the Broad Institute.
Dr. Christian Bréchot, president emeritus of the GVN, emphasized that “heightened vigilance and collaboration” are crucial to mitigate risks.
Experts are urging increased funding, faster clinical trials, and stronger engagement with farm communities to ensure rapid response to any future outbreak.
