Containing a Pandemic

For quite some time, virologists have been issuing warnings about the possibility of an outbreak of pandemic influenza. Now they are focused on the strain of avian influenza (bird flu) currently endemic in Asia and are investigating measures to prevent widespread deaths, should the virus mutate and attain human-to-human transmission capability. Two papers recently published in Science and Nature suggest that the proper deployment of anti-viral drugs could successfully combat, or possibly prevent, an outbreak of human influenza. Both papers found that between 100,000 and three million doses of anti-viral drugs would be needed to stop an outbreak. The papers call attention to the need for completing negotiations between Roche, the manufacturer of the anti-viral drug oseltamivir (Tamiflu), and the World Health Organization. Negotiations should focus on the creation of a global stockpile of Tamiflu that could be rapidly mobilized in case of an outbreak. This Economist story highlights the need for cooperation between drug companies and health organizations, as well as informed preparedness measures in order to prevent another global outbreak. – YaleGlobal

Containing a Pandemic

Two studies suggest it may be possible to prevent a global outbreak of deadly influenza by using anti-viral drugs
Friday, August 5, 2005
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