"Although IDSA applauds HHS's efforts on a thoughtful and scientifically based plan, we are proposing a number of recommendations that, if incorporated, could help to strengthen the U.S. and global response to an influenza pandemic," said Walter E. Stamm, MD, IDSA president.
Among other things, IDSA is calling for a regular, perhaps annual, timetable for updating the plan so that it can remain current and evolve with science and policy. "IDSA believes it's important for the plan to emphasize international collaboration and outline a role for the United States to help the world prepare for and respond to an influenza pandemic," said Andrew T. Pavia, MD, chair of IDSA's Task Force on Pandemic Influenza. "As we saw with SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome), we are protected or put at risk by the response of our neighbors," he said.
IDSA offered HHS recommendations in the following areas:
Coordination and stakeholder buy-in: IDSA calls for a pre-established strategy to facilitate rapid communication between HHS and other federal agencies, state and local public health officials, medical societies, physicians, and other health professionals. Specifically, IDSA recommends that the National Vaccine Program Office (NVPO) should have ultimate responsibility for coordinating efforts within HHS and with other federal agencies. As such, NVPO would oversee domestic and international influenza activities, including surveillance and supply of vaccines and antivirals.
Coordination and accountability of the research agenda: IDSA recommends forming an advisory committee to coordinate the various influenza research efforts being undertaken by government agencies, independent researchers, and industry. A progress report
'"/>
28-Oct-2004