Renowned virologist Klaus Stoehr has issued a stark warning about the rapid spread of H5N1 bird flu across Germany, calling it a potential pandemic threat with global implications. The former World Health Organization influenza program head emphasized that the virus possesses all necessary traits for human transmission, urging nations worldwide – including Asian countries – to strengthen preparedness measures.
Over 500,000 poultry have been culled in Germany since late April, according to the Friedrich Loeffler Institute (FLI), with experts predicting further outbreaks. 'Pandemics have always occurred. Good pandemic planning is the best form of protection,' Stoehr told Mitteldeutsche Zeitung, advocating for accelerated vaccine development and enhanced animal population monitoring.
While the current epicenter remains in Europe, Asian health authorities are closely monitoring the situation. The region's experience with previous H5N1 outbreaks and SARS-CoV-2 has led to renewed calls for cross-border collaboration in disease surveillance and rapid response systems.
FLI director Christa Kuehn cautioned that the situation remains unpredictable, highlighting the need for global vigilance. As migratory bird patterns connect ecosystems worldwide, experts suggest Asian nations review poultry safety protocols and healthcare system readiness.
