An influenza pandemic is as serious a threat for human security as it was when the subject received high level attention from public health ministers and the media in 2006.  If not due to H5N1, it will result from the mutation of another influenza virus.

New disease-causing microbes are emerging at the rate of about two per year.  Three quarters of these come from the animal kingdom.  AIDS, yellow fever, SARS, Ebola, rift valley fever, Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy and Pandemic Influenza are all examples of diseases that affect humans but have their origins in animals. 

Given that a severe pandemic will have significant consequences for the whole of society, it is essential that all organisations, both private and public, plan for the potential disruption that a pandemic will cause. While many countries have made substantial efforts to prepare for the health consequences of pandemics, not all countries have yet given sufficient attention to preparing for the economic, humanitarian and societal consequences.

Developing robust preparedness plans now is essential to ensure continuity of operations during pandemic and mitigate significantly the likely economic and social impacts. Preparing for the next influenza pandemic will have additional benefits, as it will strengthen the resilience of communities to withstand other future threats to their health, security and wellbeing.