Malik Feiris, an honorary professor at the University of Hong Kong, warned of this in an interview with the Hong Kong South China Morning Post (SCMP) on the 19th (local time). He is a globally recognized virologist who first identified the virus responsible for the SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) outbreak in 2003 and received the 'Future Science Prize' in the life sciences category, often referred to as China's Nobel Prize, in 2021. Professor Feiris pointed out that novel respiratory viruses can trigger a new pandemic at any time and that the international community remains vulnerable in its response system.
Professor Feiris noted that the frequency of virus transmission from animals to humans has increased in recent decades. He stated that new infectious diseases have emerged every 3 to 4 years, from SARS to swine flu, MERS, Ebola, Zika virus, and COVID-19. He pointed out that practices such as intensive livestock farming in confined spaces and the distribution of wild animals as pets serve as major sources of new infectious diseases.
In particular, the genetic uniformity of poultry raised for food was cited as a factor that can accelerate virus spread. He explained that "broilers have nearly identical genetic makeups, making it easy for a virus that penetrates once to spread globally." He also noted that modern mobility, which can reach the opposite side of the globe within 12 hours, significantly accelerates the spread of infectious diseases.
Professor Feiris expressed greatest concern about respiratory infectious diseases among new epidemics. Influenza, coronaviruses, and MERS can spread globally within weeks of an outbreak. In contrast, viruses like Ebola or Zika, which are transmitted through contact or mosquitoes, can be relatively easier to suppress. He asserted, "Respiratory viruses are the most realistic candidates for the next pandemic."
He emphasized the need to enhance the functions of the World Health Organization (WHO) for pandemic response. He stated that "there are no other organizations that can coordinate global health responses," and that research, diagnostics, vaccines, and treatments for potential future pathogens must be systematized. However, he also warned that societal factors such as vaccine refusal, resistance to mask-wearing, and the spread of misinformation could make the response even more challenging.
Because of this, Professor Feiris emphasized the need for a 'One Health' strategy based on the COVID-19 experience. This is a concept that integrates human, animal, and environmental health. He noted that "without collaboration among experts from the three fields, it is impossible to prevent the risks of infectious diseases," pointing out that climate change and ecosystem destruction are increasing the risk of disease outbreaks.
He also cited the example of Hong Kong. Hong Kong has periodically emptied its poultry markets and conducted avian flu vaccinations to prevent the spread of bird flu. Professor Feiris added that "thanks to such scientific interventions, there have been no cases of severe avian flu in Hong Kong since 1997," stressing that prevention based on research and evidence is key to protecting humanity in the long term.
Based on his experience identifying the cause of SARS in 2003 and researching COVID-19, Professor Feiris warned that pandemics will certainly return. He stated, "Preventive interventions to reduce the occurrence of infectious diseases are necessary," urging that "the world must not forget the lessons of COVID-19 and establish a stronger international cooperation system."