If there is mutation of this virus then this disease can create havoc in the world, WHO scientist warned, now is the chance to be careful

Last Updated:January 26, 2025, 22:12 IST

Birld Flu Could Be Next Big Worry: Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, former Chief Scientist of the World Health Organization, has expressed apprehension that if there is a mutation of the virus, it could one day prove to be the biggest concern for the entire world…read more

Danger due to mutation of bird flu virus.

Bird Flu Could Be Next Big Worry: After Corona, every moment the scientists of the world remain worried that the epidemic might spread again due to some other virus. Corona virus was new and it used to change its form every moment. Many such viruses already exist which have the capability of mutation and scientists fear that these viruses might mutate and create problems for humans. If this happens then it can again prove to be a big tragedy for the world. Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, former Chief Scientist of the World Health Organization, has said that we still do not know about many viruses. There are many viruses which are found in animals. If some of these wires mutate and become dangerous and spread among humans, then it will be a matter of great concern for the whole world.

The virus can mutate and get infected from human to human
Dr. Soumya Swaminathan said that although we have a better understanding of some viruses like influenza virus because a better surveillance system has been established for the last 50 years, despite this it is not certain that it will not pose a threat in the future. If the US decides to withdraw from its surveillance process, this system could be further affected because of the risks that may arise from the challenges that arise in data sharing. Because many other types of viruses are not regularly monitored. However, there is some hope for the One Health Mission in India. But the real thing is that we have to be prepared because it cannot be said when the viruses will mutate. For example, today it seems that H5N1 avian influenza or bird flu is not a threat to humans right now because it does not infect humans, but there is no guarantee that this will not happen tomorrow. It is possible that it may mutate and start infecting humans too. Currently, it is spreading from birds to cows and then to humans, but human-to-human transmission has not yet occurred. If human-to-human transmission occurs, the world could be in trouble again.

Can bird flu spread to humans?
Bird flu can spread to humans also. Its first case has come to light in 2003 itself but it does not spread from one person to another. It spreads to humans only through birds or animals. Bird flu or avian influenza or avian flu is caused by H5 virus infection in birds and animals, but some strains of H5 virus can also infect humans. About four strains have the ability to infect humans. If a human comes in contact with infected birds or animals, it can lead to bird flu infection. Due to bird flu infection, there is high fever and along with this, you will start feeling very cold and very hot immediately. Muscle cramps will begin. Will start having headache. There will be phlegm and difficulty in breathing. Apart from this, diarrhea, stomach pain, chest pain, bleeding from nose and gums, conjunctivitis in the eyes are also its symptoms.