Pandemic Influenza Pandemic influenza, most commonly associated with avian influenza, or bird flu, has recently become a major health concern in Asia and other parts of the world. Avian influenza is a highly contagious and deadly disease of birds caused by type A strains of the influenza virus. Several types of avian influenza are able to infect people who come in close contact with sick birds, including H5N1, H9N2, and H7N3 types. Scientists are worried that one of these viruses might mutate and acquire the ability to spread easily from person to person. In that case, an influenza pandemic (a worldwide, severe influenza epidemic) could occur. For this reason, development of pandemic flu vaccines is a global health priority. The CIR is conducting clinical trials for pandemic/avian flu vaccines. For more information about participating in these studies at the CIR, contact us and one of our study coordinators will be happy to help you. |
