In an interview with CNBC’s “Make It,” Microsoft CEO Bill Gates warns that if the world manages to avoid a major war within the next 25 years, there is a very real possibility of another global pandemic emerging.
Gates expressed concern about the current state of global unrest and how it could trigger a massive conflict. However, if humanity can evade such a catastrophe, he believes that another major health crisis will most likely occur within the next quarter-century. His caution comes from observing the unpreparedness of various governments, including the United States, in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2022, Gates authored a book called “How to Prevent the Next Pandemic,” which highlighted the shortcomings in preparedness for widespread illnesses and offered solutions such as improved quarantine techniques and investment in vaccine research. The Microsoft CEO acknowledged that while COVID-19 vaccines were developed at record speed, the world struggled with treatments and preventative measures during the height of the pandemic.
The origins of the coronavirus remain a subject of debate among experts. However, many believe that it is only a matter of time before another pathogen makes the jump from animals to humans, potentially causing a new illness to emerge. Other diseases such as Mpox and bird flu have already made headlines as potential threats, with the World Health Organization Director-General declaring Mpox a “public health emergency of international concern” in August.
In light of these concerns, it is crucial for governments worldwide to invest in better preparedness measures to tackle potential future pandemics and protect their populations from harm.
