During a crucial meeting in Geneva, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus delivered a stark message, alerting the world to the imminent risk of a new pandemic.
“The current bird flu outbreak serves as a stark reminder that a new pandemic could emerge unexpectedly,” Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus cautioned.
He commended the progress on a draft agreement aimed at preventing future pandemics, emphasizing the urgent need to finalize it this year.
In light of recent bird flu cases in Cambodia and the US, Tedros stressed the importance of enhanced measures to control the spread of such diseases. He also advocated for yearly COVID-19 vaccinations for vulnerable groups, including individuals over 60 and healthcare workers.
As global health officials continue to monitor developments closely, the warning from the WHO underscores the ongoing challenges in safeguarding public health worldwide.