Former Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Robert Redfield has raised concerns about the potential for a bird flu pandemic in the near future. Speaking on NewsNation, Redfield emphasized that it is not a matter of if, but rather when, such an outbreak will occur.

Redfield highlighted the significant mortality rate associated with bird flu when it infects humans, estimating it to be between 25 and 50 percent, a stark contrast to the 0.6 percent mortality rate of COVID-19. He pointed out that the recent detection of the virus in cattle across the United States and the first human death in Mexico by the World Health Organization indicate a growing threat.

The CDC reported the third human case of bird flu in farmworkers, with symptoms including a cough without fever and pink eye. However, there is currently no evidence of human-to-human transmission of the virus. Redfield explained that specific changes in amino acids are required for the virus to gain the ability to bind to human receptors and potentially spread among humans, similar to how COVID-19 spreads.

With over 40 confirmed cases of bird flu in cattle herds nationwide, the CDC is closely monitoring the situation. While the risk to the general public is currently deemed low, the proximity of cattle to pigs raises concerns as the virus can evolve from pigs to humans. Redfield also highlighted the risk posed by lab-grown strains of the virus, emphasizing the need for vigilance and preventive measures.

Given the potential for a bird flu pandemic, Redfield stressed the importance of ongoing surveillance and research to prevent the virus from gaining the ability to transmit between humans. As the global health community remains on high alert for emerging infectious diseases, the findings and insights shared by experts like Redfield play a crucial role in safeguarding public health.