Pandemic influenza preparedness.

Seasonal influenza is a common, recurring respiratory disease that strikes with predictable regularity. Pandemic influenza is a rare, unpredictable occurrence. It occurs when a new influenza virus – to which humanity has no pre-existing immunity – appears. With nothing to contain it, a pandemic influenza virus can quickly spread to all parts of the world, causing a global epidemic. During the outbreaks of H5N1 influenza cases in 2006, it became clear to WHO Member States that a formal arrangement was needed to increase access to vaccines during influenza pandemics, particularly for countries in need. At the same time, Member States recognized that ongoing, systematic virus sharing was critical to ensuring continuous global monitoring and risk assessment and aid in developing safe and effective pandemic influenza vaccines. In 2007, Member States came together to start negotiating and interacting with industry, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders over the next 4 years to draft the PIP Framework.