Update on preparing for the next influenza pandemic

Abstract

While previous pandemics have taken the world by surprise, the present situation has given the world advanced warning and a rare opportunity to prepare for the next pandemic. WHO urges all countries to take action now to assess their level of preparedness, identify priority needs, and develop a national influenza preparedness plan. If containing or delaying the spread of a new human influenza strain is possible, it will take rapid, massive coordinated global and national actions. The success of these actions will depend on the preparations made in advance by each member of the international community.