The threat of pandenic influenza: Are we ready?

A 2-day workshop, entitled 'The Threat of Pandemic Influenza: Are we ready?' was held in June 2004 for the Forum of Microbial Threats of the Institute of Medicine and this workshop chronicled the emergence and toll of the H5N1 Avian influenza virus strain and the appearance of this strain in mammals, including humans. The recurring theme of the workshop was that we are not prepared for an influenza pandemic and that the potential for a catastrophic influenza pandemic is very real. What needs to be done to prevent such a catastrophe is very clear. However, the political will to supports such efforts remains uncertain.