Science Vs Bird Flu: The Next Pandemic?
124 snips
May 15, 2025 
Blythe Terrell, Editor of Science Vs, delves into the concerning world of H5N1 bird flu, exploring its potential to evolve into a pandemic. She discusses alarming cases of birds mysteriously dying and the risks of transmission to mammals. Insights from virologists Dr. Seema Lakdawala and Dr. Richard Webby reveal the mutations of the virus and the reality of silent infections in humans. With public awareness faltering under the 'boy who cried wolf' syndrome, Blythe emphasizes the urgent need for accurate information and preparedness against this looming threat.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
High Fatality of H5N1 Bird Flu
- H5N1 bird flu is scary because it kills 50 to 60 percent of infected humans, much higher than typical flu fatality rates.
- Although around 1,000 cases have been documented, the actual fatality rate might be slightly lower due to undiagnosed mild cases.
Birds Falling Out of The Sky
- Birds were literally "falling out of the sky dead" from the H5N1 bird flu outbreak.
- A bald eagle was seen struggling to land and behaving abnormally due to the virus.
Mammal Transmission Signals Adaptation
- Bird flu crossing into mammals like seals raises concern because the virus can adapt and spread mammal to mammal.
- Seals were spreading the virus among themselves, which is unusual for bird flu and a warning sign for potential adaptation.