In a joint report released today, ECDC and EFSA outline the contributing drivers for influenza A(H5N1) viruses to acquire the ability to spread efficiently among humans, thereby increasing their pandemic potential.
Avian influenza viruses (AIV) remain prevalent among wild bird populations in the European Union and European Economic Area (EU/EEA), leading to significant illness in and death of birds.
MediPIET/EPIET and EUPHEM fellows participated in a two-day optional module organised by ECDC, aimed at refining their proficiency in qualitative research methodologies.
Injected trivalent inactivated influenza vaccines are most commonly used throughout the world. Influenza antigen preparation varies between manufacturers.
It takes 10 to 14 days following vaccination, before an immune response and protection develops. Therefore, most countries start immunisation in the early autumn.