[Pandemic influenza measures in Japan--from the point of government].
H5N1 type avian flu infection has spread among poultry starting from Vietnam to southwest region countries since the end of 2003. Afterwards, the infections have expanded through Africa, Europe and even to worldwide. Cases of H5N1 type avian flu virus infections to human are increasing. So, the risk of acquiring, through mutation, capacity of human-to-human spread would be higher. As human has not been infected by such virus, it is worried that a pandemic, and even the increase of deaths due to this virus could be occurred. Japan produced "Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Action Plan" last year, and also takes genuine measures against a new pathogenic avian influenza virus. Various countries, including Japan, are trying to find positive measures towards it, although it has not been found.
Nishijima
Yasuhiro
Y
Public Relations Department, General Coordination Division.
Umeda
Masaru
M
D006801:Humans; D053124:Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000517:prevention & control*; D007391:International Cooperation; D007564:Japan; D007878:Legislation as Topic / Q000458:organization & administration*