Global concerns about an impending influenza pandemic escalated when highly pathogenic
influenza A subtype H5N1 appeared in Nigeria in January 2006. The potential devastation from
emergence of a pandemic strain in Africa has led to a sudden shift of public health focus to
pandemic preparedness. Preparedness and control activities must work within the already strained
capacity of health infrastructure in Africa to respond to immense existing public health problems.
Massive attention and resources directed toward influenza could distort priorities and damage critical
public health programs. Responses to concerns about pandemic influenza should strengthen human
and veterinary surveillance and laboratory capacity to help address a variety of health threats.
Experiences in Asia should provide bases for reassessing strategies for Africa and elsewhere. Fowl
depopulation strategies will need to be adapted for Africa. Additionally, the role of avian vaccines
should be comprehensively evaluated and clearly defined.

Preparedness for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Pandemic in Africa.pdf