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Review Article
Are we prepared to help low-resource communities cope with a severe influenza pandemic?
Article first published online: 12 NOV 2012
DOI: 10.1111/irv.12040
© 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd
Issue
Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses
Early View (Online Version of Record published before inclusion in an issue)
Additional Information
How to Cite
Starbuck, E. S., von Bernuth, R., Bolles, K. and Koepsell, J. (2012), Are we prepared to help low-resource communities cope with a severe influenza pandemic?. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses. doi: 10.1111/irv.12040
Publication History
- Article first published online: 12 NOV 2012
- Accepted 25 September 2012. Published Online 11 November 2012
- Abstract
- Article
- References
- Cited By
Keywords:
- Developing countries;
- influenza;
- nonpharmaceutical interventions;
- pandemic;
- preparedness;
- public health
Please cite this paper as: Starbuck et al (2012) Are we prepared to help low-resource communities cope with a severe influenza pandemic? Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses DOI: 10.1111/irv.12040.
Recent research involving lab-modified H5N1 influenza viruses with increased transmissibility and the ongoing evolution of the virus in nature should remind us of the continuing importance of preparedness for a severe influenza pandemic. Current vaccine technology and antiviral supply remain inadequate, and in a severe pandemic, most low-resource communities will fail to receive adequate medical supplies. However, with suitable guidance, these communities can take appropriate actions without substantial outside resources to reduce influenza transmission and care for the ill. Such guidance should be completed, and support provided to developing countries to adapt it for their settings and prepare for implementation.