A leading expert has issued a chilling warning — the next pandemic, called “The Big One,” could kill over seven million people. Epidemiologist Dr. Michael Osterholm from the U.S. believes it could be far worse than COVID-19.
In his book with co-author Mark Olshaker, Osterholm describes a “biological bomb” scenario that starts with a single baby’s death in Africa. A local health worker unknowingly spreads the virus, which quickly circles the globe. “The microbe that felled one child yesterday can reach yours tomorrow,” the book warns.
The authors stress that global cooperation is the only way to prevent disaster. “Bacteria and viruses know nothing of borders,” they write, urging nations to work together on vaccines and rapid response plans. But they admit such unity remains unlikely.
Dr. Osterholm’s message is clear — we must prepare now. “Each of us is in greater danger from microbes than human enemies,” he said. His warning is a stark reminder that the next pandemic may not be if — but when.
