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High-throughput Detection Method for Influenza Virus
Published on: February 4, 2012
Surveillance for pandemic influenza
1World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Influenza Reference and Research, CSL Limited, Parkville, Australia.
The Journal of Infectious Diseases
|August 1, 1997
Summary
The World Health Organization
Area of Science:
- Virology and Epidemiology
- Global Public Health Surveillance
Background:
- The 1918-1919 influenza pandemic spurred the creation of global surveillance programs.
- Established in 1947, the World Health Organization's influenza program tracks viral epidemiology.
- Pandemic influenza outbreaks in 1957 and 1969 outpaced vaccine production and distribution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of global influenza surveillance.
- To identify strategies for improving pandemic influenza preparedness.
- To assess the impact of modern transportation on pandemic spread.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical influenza pandemic data.
- Analysis of the World Health Organization's influenza surveillance program.
- Examination of factors influencing pandemic spread, including global travel.
Main Results:
- The global influenza surveillance program has enhanced understanding of influenza epidemiology.
- Vaccine formulation updates are informed by surveillance data during interpandemic periods.
- Rapid viral spread during past pandemics overwhelmed vaccine availability.
Conclusions:
- While new insights into influenza origins offer improved surveillance opportunities, rapid global transport poses a significant threat.
- Enhanced surveillance is crucial for timely response to influenza pandemics.
- The risk of future pandemics is amplified by global connectivity.
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