Human Avian Influenza: How Ready Are We?

Three influenza pandemics emerged in the 20th century, and scientists are concerned that the currently circulating, highly pathogenic A (H5N1) avian influenza virus could lead to the next pandemic, one as deadly as the 1918 influenza pandemic. Not since the identification of HIV and AIDS will the duty to care among health care providers be tested as during such an event. Nonetheless, the expertise of health care providers is an integral part of the response to a pandemic. In the fight against flu, forewarned is forearmed. This report provides an overview of avian influenza (a.k.a. bird flu) and phases of pandemic influenza, with an emphasis on what health care providers should know to be prepared for a human avian influenza outbreak and the next pandemic.

Key words: A (H5N1) virus, antigenic drift, antigenic shift, avian influenza, bird flu, pandemics