Preparedness and international contribution on H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza and pandemic-influenza

Since the end of 2003, simultaneous outbreaks caused by H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (H5N1-HPAIV) occurred in poultries and in wild birds in the East Asia. The outbreaks are spreading now at least 48 countries in the Middle Eastern, African and European countries in addition to the East Asia. During the outbreaks, over 200 human infection cases with 55% fatality are confirmed at the moment and some human-to-human transmission in family clusters have been observed. The outbreaks are no more out of control and pandemic potential caused by H5N1-HPAIV is major concern. Therefore, it is urgently necessary to develop new diagnostic kits and effective vaccines and to stockpile anti-influenza drugs before pandemic alert period phase 4 defined by WHO. Furthermore, international supports to the affected countries for development and improvement of diagnostic system are required in the public health aspect.