[Influenza surveillance and control program of WHO]

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Epidemiology
• Virology

Context:

• The World Health Organization (WHO) operates a global influenza surveillance network with 110 National Influenza Centers in 83 countries.
• Four WHO Collaborating Centers (London, Atlanta, Melbourne, Tokyo) support this network.
• China plays a significant role in global influenza epidemiology.

Purpose:

• To provide crucial epidemiological and virological data for annual influenza vaccine composition recommendations.
• To enable early detection and analysis of potential pandemic influenza strains.
• To enhance global influenza surveillance, particularly in China.

Summary:

• The WHO influenza surveillance network collects vital data for vaccine recommendations and pandemic strain detection.
• The network comprises 110 National Influenza Centers and four WHO Collaborating Centers worldwide.
• Continuous improvement of surveillance, especially in China, is a key focus.

Impact:

• Facilitates timely decisions on influenza vaccine composition.
• Aims to minimize the impact of influenza pandemics through early detection.
• Supports global public health by strengthening influenza monitoring and preparedness.