Preparing for the next large-scale flu outbreak

PA 323/09 A new text book has been published to make sure students and health professionals have a better understanding of flu and are prepared to battle future pandemics on national and international levels. The text book Introduction to Pandemic Influenza, co-edited by Professor Jonathan Nguyen Van Tam of The University of Nottingham's School of Community Health Sciences and the Health Protection Agency East Midlands, has a strong emphasis on practical preparedness, covering areas not dealt with by traditional texts. Professor Van-Tam, who is currently carrying out urgent research into how the H1N1 virus is spread, said: "Most health professionals will face at least one pandemic during their lifetime. These events place health systems under massive strain; if severe they place all of society under strain. So learning about this phenomenon, and ways we can be prepared, is of vital importance." Dr Chloe Sellwood, co-editor of the book is responsible for the strategic overview of influenza preparedness within the National Health Service in London. Dr Sellwood said: "The book brings together the best of the global expertise, knowledge and experience of pandemic flu in one useful place. As such, the book will be an important resource for countries that are now approaching the Northern Hemisphere winter and potential increases in cases of pandemic flu." The new book is aimed at public health professionals involved in pandemic preparedness and students studying virology, epidemiology, infectious diseases, public health and medical sciences.