Bird flu, malaria, or HIV: which disease could become a pandemic by 2025?

The COVID-19 virus emerged suddenly, quickly spreading across the globe and claiming millions of lives. Since then, many have been concerned about the emergence of another infectious disease, with avian influenza H5N1 being considered one of the greatest threats to humanity in 2025, reports The Conversation.

In addition, epidemiologists are focusing on three other major infections: malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis, which together take approximately 2 million lives each year. The most dangerous pathogens are those resistant to antibiotics and antiviral medications.

Avian influenza is prevalent among wild and domestic birds. Recently, cases of the virus have also been reported among cattle in several U.S. states and among horses in Mongolia.

In the U.S., 61 people have contracted avian influenza, and a significant increase in cases is expected in 2025. Most of these cases are linked to contact between agricultural workers and infected animals or consumption of raw milk.

It has been established that the H5N1 virus does not transmit from person to person, which significantly reduces the risk of a global pandemic. However, mutations of the virus could change this scenario, potentially allowing it to spread between humans.

Authorities in various countries are developing preparedness plans for a possible pandemic. In Britain, 5 million doses of the H5N1 vaccine have been procured.

However, doctors warn that we must not forget about the ongoing "slow pandemics" among humans. These include malaria, HIV, tuberculosis, and other pathogens. Combating them is of utmost importance.

As a reminder, an H5N1 outbreak occurred in Shelton at a big cat sanctuary, resulting in the death of 20 out of 37 resident animals. Tigers, cougars, leopards, and other exotic species were among the casualties.