The OAS has been observing with concern the slow yet relentless spread of avian influenza from Asia to Europe to Africa. If the highly infectious virus H5N1 were to reach the Americas, it could have a significant impact on the economy, trade, health, security and human development of all affected nations. The impact could be devastating for more vulnerable, developing economies such as those of the Caribbean, South and Central America.

Although there have been no reported cases of avian flu in the Americas, there is no reason to think that this Hemisphere will be excluded from the relentless progress of bird flu around the world.

Avian migration patterns, international travel as well as global trade flows have the effect of making all our countries vulnerable. In the 21st century, the nature of threat is such that national, regional and global threats can no longer be cleanly delinked. Formulating cooperative and coordinated strategies to confront threat is therefore essential.

During the 20th century, there were several influenza pandemics. The Hong Kong flu was responsible for about 1 million deaths worldwide from 1968-69. Scientists have stated that it is impossible to predict the severity of the next influenza pandemic. As such, careful preparation for combating and containing the threat of avian influenza in the Americas is critical.

According to the World Health Organization, only 30 countries worldwide have national influenza pandemic plans. Of these 30, only five of the OAS’ 34 member states -- Brazil, Canada, Chile, Mexico and the United States – were listed as having national plans. This is a cause for concern.

The OAS encourages all of its member states to take a proactive approach in developing and testing national influenza pandemic plans, conducting exercises to ensure readiness and creating specific mechanisms for information exchange and early warning.

Recognizing that health and food security are fundamental for sustained social and economic development, the OAS is prepared to work with member states and with our inter-American partners to ensure that the countries of this Hemisphere are prepared to confront and contain the avian flu virus.

This meeting is one step in bringing together the expertise and resources of the inter-American system to jointly address this threat. IICA and PAHO, as the agricultural and health organizations of the Americas, have unique expertise that can provide leadership in surveillance, preparation and response. The media must also be critical partners in sharing information and focusing attention on this issue.

The development of strong partnerships, information exchange, coordinated strategies and actions are essential tools for confronting and containing the threat of avian flu, and protecting the lives, livelihoods and future of the nations and peoples of the Americas.