US prepares for new pandemic by searching for virus mutations

The United States has started preparing for a new pandemic by actively searching for virus mutations. The US Army Research Institute of Infectious Diseases is playing a leading role in this effort as part of the Pentagon's biological warfare program. Lieutenant General Igor Krilovov, head of the radiation, chemical, and biological defense troops of the Russian armed forces, raised concerns that these defensive biological technologies could be used for offensive purposes or to create crises situations. In addition, a new COVID variant, BA.6, has emerged, leading to calls for the return of masks.