And he told CNN that more zoonotic diseases, or those that jump from animals to humans, are in store for our future. COVID-19 originally jumped from an animal to humans, although scientists do not know which animal, exactly. Experts say the rising number of emerging viruses is largely the result of ecological destruction and wildlife trade. The United Nations is warning that deforestation and population increases could cause more viruses to jump to humans. So scientists leave this warning: protect forests to protect humanity because Mother Nature has deadly weapons in her armory.