Avian Influenza 2006 - From Asia To Africa, From Europe To The Mediterranean

Main Category: Bird Flu / Avian Flu
Article Date: 04 Jan 2007 - 11:00 PDT

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Previously, the H5N1 virus had been confined to Asia; however, in February it reached Africa, more precisely Nigeria. Dogubayazit (Turkey- January), Irbil and Suleimaniya (Iraq- February), Salyan (Azerbaijan- March), Qaliubiya (Egypt-March) and Arta (Djibouti - May).

What do they have in common? In 2006, each of these countries experienced its first case of H5N1 avian influenza. This demonstrates that avian influenza still has the potential to spread. Indonesia, with 74 cases, 57 of them fatal, is still the country most affected.

"It may be", said Dr Margaret Chan at a global meeting in March, "that containment efforts would only slow the spread of a pandemic. But even that will buy us time so that countries can begin activating their pandemic preparedness plans and companies can begin on the lengthy process of manufacturing an effective human pandemic vaccine."

WHO Member States decided to begin immediate and voluntary implementation of certain parts of the International Health Regulations, which were adopted in 2005. The concern generated by avian influenza undoubtedly played a part.

The Regulations provide for rapid and transparent notification of cases, assistance for countries that wish to receive it and the communication of essential information, including recommendations on appropriate control measures.

World Health Organization (WHO)

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