Yoshihiro Kawaoka

Yoshihiro Kawaoka, a renowned veterinarian and virologist, joins editors Eric Rubin and Lindsey Baden to discuss the critical issue of avian influenza. They explore how H5N1 spreads between chickens, cows, and even cats, raising concerns about potential human transmission. Kawaoka highlights the virus's mutations that may facilitate infections in humans and the economic impact of recent outbreaks, particularly on food supply and dairy production. The conversation underscores the urgent need for robust safety measures to mitigate these risks.