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The International Response to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza: Science, Policy and Politics

4 Nov 2008

Paul Chinnock

Source: Social, Technological and Environmental Pathways to Sustainability (STEPS) Centre

Over the last decade, the avian influenza virus, H5N1, has spread across most of Asia and Europe and parts of Africa. In some countries – including Indonesia, China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Nigeria and Egypt – the disease is probably now endemic in animals. There has, as yet, been no human pandemic, although 245 deaths have been reported since 2003. A major international response has been launched, backed by over $2 billion of public money. Huge numbers of poultry have been culled, vaccination campaigns have been implemented and markets have been restructured. These efforts have affected the livelihoods and businesses of millions. In addition, substantial efforts have been invested in improving human and animal health systems, combined with major investments in drug and vaccine development. Detailed contingency and preparedness plans have been devised in case a pandemic occurs.

A report from the Social, Technological and Environmental Pathways to Sustainability (STEPS) Centre asks what has been learned from this experience and what it means for future efforts to respond to emerging infectious diseases. The 95-page document was intended to inform discussions at the Sixth International Ministerial Conference on Avian and Pandemic Influenza held in Egypt 24-26th October.

The report considers veterinary issues, human public health and pandemic preparedness. It looks at the how the questions of security and risk have been dealt with. It concludes with a discussion of the challenges that have emerged.

The authors (Ian Scoones and Paul Forster) make reference to the ‘One World, One Health Initiative’, launched in 2004 at a symposium organized by the Wildlife Conservation Society and hosted by the Rockefeller University. The initiative seeks: ‘...a more holistic approach to preventing epidemic / epizootic disease and for maintaining ecosystem integrity for the benefit of humans, their domesticated animals, and the foundational biodiversity that supports us all.’ Scoones and Forster have also written a four-page briefing on the issue accessible here.