Former Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director, Robert Redfield, has raised concerns about the possibility of a bird flu pandemic, stating that it is just a matter of time before the virus enters humans. In an interview with NewsNation, Redfield mentioned that bird flu could have significant mortality compared to COVID-19.

In recent years, bird flu has caused millions of bird deaths worldwide but has had minimal impact on humans. However, Redfield believes that bird flu has the potential to spread to humans and cause widespread mortality. He predicts a mortality rate of 25 to 50%, significantly higher than the 0.6% mortality rate of COVID-19.

Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is usually transmitted among birds and other animals. It can infect humans through contact with an infected animal's body fluids or through inhaling particles in animal habitats. People who work closely with poultry, waterfowl, and livestock are most vulnerable to catching the virus. However, the CDC states that it is extremely rare for bird flu to spread from one human to another.

Redfield explained that for bird flu to spread between humans, specific changes in amino acids within the virus are needed. He conducted laboratory research on this topic and stated that once the virus gains the ability to attach to human receptors and transmit from person to person, a pandemic is likely to occur.

The recent outbreak of bird flu in cattle herds across the country has added to concerns. The exact cause of the spread to cattle is still unknown, but researchers suspect that milking machines may be carrying the virus. More than 40 cattle herds have confirmed cases, and the CDC is tracking wastewater treatment sites to identify the virus's spread.

The impact on humans has been limited so far, with three confirmed cases of bird flu in farm workers who were directly exposed to infected dairy cattle. The symptoms reported include eye inflammation, upper respiratory problems, sore throat, cough, and congestion. The CDC is monitoring 350 individuals who have been exposed for flu-like symptoms, and testing has been conducted on 39 people so far.

Despite the concerns, the CDC reassures the general public that the current risk of contracting the virus is low. The agency is closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary preparedness and prevention measures.

In the development of a bird flu vaccine, eggs are traditionally used, raising concerns about potential contamination by wild birds. However, researchers at the University of Pennsylvania's School of Medicine have developed an experimental mRNA vaccine that could help manage the outbreak of the H5N1 virus seen in birds and cattle, as well as prevent human infections. Unlike traditional vaccines, mRNA vaccines do not require eggs for development.

While the potential for a bird flu pandemic exists, the focus remains on monitoring and preparedness. The CDC continues to work towards understanding the virus and implementing measures to ensure public health and safety.