Australia faces threats: vaccine refusal, potential smallpox outbreak

Professor Raina MacIntyre warns of potential public health threats, including a possible smallpox-like pandemic and the rise of vaccine-preventable diseases, as the next major challenges. MacIntyre highlights declining vaccination rates and the spread of misinformation as significant concerns, alongside the potential for a novel influenza pandemic. She emphasizes the need to address vaccine hesitancy and restore public trust in vaccines. The epidemiologist also expresses optimism about advancements in AI for pandemic preparedness, citing her Epiwatch system. She also continues to wear masks in public to mitigate risks.