🦠 German virologist Klaus Stoehr is sounding the alarm as bird flu outbreaks spread rapidly across Germany. With the H5N1 virus showing "all the characteristics necessary to trigger a pandemic," experts say it's time to step up preparedness efforts.
In recent weeks, Germany's federal animal health agency, the Friedrich Loeffler Institute (FLI), reports about 500,000 poultry – including chickens, ducks, geese, and turkeys – have been culled nationwide. ⏳ Institute head Christa Kuehn warns, "It is impossible to predict how the situation will develop, but the FLI is expecting a further increase in outbreaks and cases."
Stoehr, former head of the WHO's influenza program, stresses that pandemics have always occurred in history. "Good pandemic planning is the best form of protection," he says, urging the development of new vaccines, global updates to response plans, and stronger monitoring of animal populations. 🔬
What does this mean for you? As global travels pick up and communities stay connected, each of us can play a role by staying informed, following health guidelines, and supporting scientific research. 🌍✨
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Virologist warns of pandemic risk as bird flu spreads in Germany
cgtn.com
