Join us as we chat with Dr. Terry Simpson, a virologist delving into H5N1 mutations and what he intriguingly refers to as bird cults. He shares his perspective on the worldwide scenario, the timeline, and the certainty of these developments. Get ready, folks; this is a must-listen episode.

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Episode Overview

In this episode of The Hazmat Guys Podcast, hosts sit down with Dr. Terry Simpson, a surgeon, physician, and virologist, to discuss H5N1 (bird flu), its mutations, and its potential impact on humans. With years of expertise in molecular virology, Dr. Simpson provides a detailed breakdown of bird flu, its transmission pathways, and its risks to both the public and first responders. The discussion also delves into preventive measures, monitoring efforts, and the inevitable crossover of the virus to humans.

Segment Breakdown & Timestamps

[00:00 - 04:15] Introduction & Welcome

• The hosts introduce the episode and guest, Dr. Terry Simpson.
• A humorous opening before diving into serious discussions.

[04:15 - 05:08] Meet Dr. Terry Simpson

• Dr. Simpson introduces himself, discussing his background as a surgeon and virologist.
• His expertise in molecular virology and public health communication.
• How COVID-19 brought him back into virology full-time.

[05:08 - 07:31] Hazmat Response to Epidemics

• Hosts discuss their firsthand experience in handling virus-related incidents in NYC.
• Their involvement with bird flu, swine flu, Ebola, and COVID protocols.
• The role of first responders in dealing with viral outbreaks.

[07:31 - 10:46] Understanding H5N1 (Bird Flu) and its Deadly Mutations

• Bird flu has existed for thousands of years but certain mutations are extremely deadly.
• H5N1 subtypes: Some have a 50% fatality rate in humans.
• So far, transmission has been limited to bird-to-human or cattle-to-human.
• Recent findings of H5N1 in dairy cattle raise major concerns.

[10:47 - 14:41] Bird Flu's Spread & Public Awareness

• Over 82 million birds have been culled in the last five years to stop transmission.
• 950 dairy herds across 16 states have tested positive for bird flu.
• The risks of handling infected birds, raw milk, and unpasteurized dairy products.
• Potential spread through migratory birds, domestic animals, and water sources.

[14:42 - 21:20] Safety Measures & Precautions for First Responders

• Recommended PPE: Gloves, N95 masks, goggles, disposable outfits.
• The virus is transmitted through wet droplets, not as a gas.
• Proper disposal of infected birds: Double-bagging and incineration.
• Avoid handling dead birds and limiting bird feeders to prevent virus clustering.

[21:21 - 27:40] Could H5N1 Become the Next Pandemic?

• The possibility of mutation enabling human-to-human transmission.
• Virus mixing with seasonal flu in an infected person could create a “super virus.”
• Predicting when this will happen is uncertain, but likely within a year.

[27:41 - 35:24] How Do We Monitor Bird Flu?

• The CDC, WHO, and state health departments are actively tracking cases.
• Hospitals are testing all Influenza A cases for H5N1 strains.
• The role of major agricultural companies in virus monitoring.
• Small backyard farms are harder to track, creating a blind spot in surveillance.

[35:25 - 38:45] Vaccines & The Future of Bird Flu Control

• A vaccine for H5N1 exists, but it’s only tested in birds.
• A human vaccine can only be developed once the virus crosses to humans.
• mRNA technology allows for quick vaccine development, but not instant solutions.

[38:46 - 41:22] Misinformation & Reliable Sources for Virus Tracking

• Politics has complicated public trust in virology and vaccines.
• Trusted sources: State health departments, WHO, virologists on social media.
• Dr. Simpson’s Substack & TikTok provide verified, science-based updates.

[41:23 - 42:38] Final Thoughts & Takeaways

• Personal protective measures for the public.
• First responders should stay informed, prepared, and cautious.
• Dead bird safety: Wear gloves, N95 masks, and use proper disposal methods.
• A humorous close: "Don’t do CPR on a bird!"

Key Takeaways

H5N1 is a real and evolving threat, with recent transmission in cattle.

Human-to-human transmission hasn’t happened yet, but could within a year.

First responders must use proper PPE and disposal methods when dealing with dead birds.

Avoid raw milk and unpasteurized dairy in affected areas.

The CDC and global health organizations are actively monitoring the virus.

A vaccine won’t be developed until human transmission occurs.

Follow trusted virologists, Substack, and WHO for reliable updates.

Guest Information