Today, officials and health experts from around the world will gather in Washington, D.C., to begin a two-day workshop focused on international coordination in the fight against the H5N1 avian influenza pandemic.
The aim of the workshop is to develop methods for sharing information and biological samples to monitor the mutation process of the H5N1 virus until it potentially gains the ability to transmit between humans, which could trigger one of the most devastating pandemics of the 21st century, according to the U.S. State Department.
So far, the H5N1 virus has forced several countries to cull tens of millions of poultry and has infected over 100 individuals, resulting in at least 60 deaths across four Asian countries since late 2003. It is estimated that H5N1 has caused losses of $10-15 billion in the global poultry industry, with the most significant impacts felt in Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia. However, this is just the “opening act.” The greatest concern is that this tiny virus may mutate and acquire the ability to transmit between humans, potentially leading to the deaths of millions within months.
To closely monitor the mutation process of the virus, scientists need to preserve test samples, especially from infected individuals. However, some experts have expressed concerns that certain countries are hesitant to share biological samples. This situation could hinder the compilation of a mutation timeline for the virus, which is crucial for predicting when the virus will be capable of human transmission.
Some computer simulations suggest that swift action could help control outbreaks and prevent them from escalating into a pandemic. However, this requires all countries to share information promptly.
Experts hope that this workshop hosted by the U.S. State Department, along with future meetings, will help establish a foundation for collaboration. “The goal is to unite 65 countries and international organizations interested in preventing the spread of avian influenza,” emphasized Sean McCormack, a representative of the U.S. State Department. Each participating member needs to agree on “fundamental principles,” including “transparency of information regarding any potential outbreaks with accuracy and timeliness; coordination of assistance to affected or potentially affected countries; and close collaboration with the World Health Organization.”
In the coming months, a series of workshops will focus on avian influenza. Notably, there will be a workshop in the Asia-Pacific region hosted by Australia at the end of October, a high-level workshop in Canada on October 25-26, and a WHO workshop on November 7-8 in Geneva aimed at fundraising.
Mỹ Linh (according to Reuters)
