Flu experts warn of need for pandemic plans

Many countries have no plans in place to deal with a future influenza pandemic, warned specialists at an international meeting last week.

Dr Daniel Lavanchy, coordinator of epidemic disease control at the World Health Organization in Geneva, reported: “Many developed countries, including the United Kingdom, France, Belgium, and Switzerland, have a plan in place. Others, such as the Netherlands, Germany, China, and Japan, are currently making preparations. However, some developed, and many developing, countries have yet to take action.” He added: “There is scope for harmonisation with the WHO plan among some of the developed countries.”

He was speaking to influenza specialists from around the world at the international conference, “Options for …