Second call, second call, Bird Flu: The next pandemic?

According to the CDC, H5N1 bird flu is causing significant concern globally. This virus has spread in wild birds, causing outbreaks in poultry and dairy cattle in the US. In recent months, human cases of H5N1 have been reported mainly among poultry and dairy workers, highlighting the risk of proximity to these animals. In addition, the FDA warns about research identifying the transmission of H5N1 to cats through food. This virus could be lethal to pets such as cats and dogs, inviting owners to weigh the risk of offering them raw meat or uncooked food.

On the other hand, the American Council on Science and Health mentions that, although sustained transmission between humans has not been seen, 66 cases of H5N1 in people have been documented this year in the US. Recent studies suggest that the virus could be closer to unleashing a pandemic than previously anticipated. The possibility that H5N1 already has mutations necessary to cause a pandemic is worrying. The more human exposures occur, the greater the likelihood that transmissible variants will emerge between people.

This highlights not only the safety, but also the nutritional benefits of adopting a plant-based diet, eliminating products considered high risk such as dairy, meat and eggs. The Vegan Society is urging farmers to embrace plant-based farming as a response to the bird flu outbreak. Dr Butler, in 2021, described this flu as a classic example of a zoonotic disease, and notes that many pandemics originate from bird flu viruses. According to the Physician Committee for Responsible Medicine, factory farms, which account for more than 50% of zoonotic diseases, are at the heart of this problem. Overcrowded conditions, antibiotic use, and genetic modification contribute to the risk of creating viruses that can jump to humans.

During the height of COVID, a plant-based diet was associated with a 73% lower chance of developing severe symptoms, and the British Medical Journal argues that this diet can reduce hospitalizations. The growing interest in alternatives to consuming animal products will be driven by the emerging risks of bird flu.

In conclusion, the growing threat of bird flu is an urgent reminder of the need to rethink our dietary choices towards a safer and more nutritious approach. Choosing a plant-based diet not only protects our health, but also contributes to a more resilient world in the face of future health crises.