National pandemic influenza preparedness planning.
The recent outbreaks of influenza A/H5N1 and 'swine influenza' A/H1N1 have caused global concern over the potential for a new influenza pandemic. Although it is impossible to predict when the next pandemic will occur, appropriate planning is still needed to maximize efficient use of resources and to minimize loss of life and productivity. Many tools now exist to assist countries in evaluating their plans but there is little to aid in writing of the plans. This study discusses the process of drafting a pandemic influenza preparedness plan for developing countries that conforms to the International Health Regulations of 2005 and recommendations of the World Health Organization. Stakeholders from many sectors should be involved in drafting a comprehensive pandemic influenza plan that addresses all levels of preparedness.
Azziz-Baumgartner
Eduardo
E
International Epidemiology and Response Team, Epidemiology and Surveillance Branch, Influenza Division, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. eha9@cdc.gov
Smith
Nicole
N
González-Alvarez
Raquel
R
Daves
Sharon
S
Layton
Marcelle
M
Linares
Nivaldo
N
Richardson-Smith
Nicole
N
Bresee
Joseph
J
Mounts
Anthony
A
D002959:Civil Defense / Q000379:methods / Q000458:organization & administration*; D003140:Communicable Disease Control / Q000379:methods*; D004196:Disease Outbreaks / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006291:Health Policy; D006801:Humans; D053118:Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype / Q000276:immunology / Q000302:isolation & purification; D053124:Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype / Q000276:immunology / Q000302:isolation & purification; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000821:virology*