National Influenza Centres and Influenza Surveillance in the WHO's South-East Asia and Western Pacific Regions, Report of the eighth bi-regional meeting , Jakarta, Indonesia, 12-15 August 2014

Abstract

The Eighth bi-regional meeting of the national influenza centres (‎NICs)‎ and influenza surveillance in the South-East and Western Pacific Regions was held from 12 to 15 August 2014 at Jakarta, Indonesia. The objective of the meeting was to further strengthen influenza surveillance, preparedness and response in the Asia-Pacific region. The bi-regional meeting brought together participants from Member States in South-East Asia and Western Pacific Regions, World Health Organization (‎WHO)‎ Collaborating Centres, regional reference laboratories, partner agencies and WHO. Participants were provided updates on the current global and regional status of seasonal, avian and other novel influenza virus subtypes, the pandemic influenza preparedness (‎PIP)‎ Framework and new influenza activities in the world. They also discussed ways to strengthen national influenza surveillance systems, including laboratories, data reporting, and response to influenza and other emerging respiratory infections in the Asia-Pacific region. In a group work session, they collectively identified major issues/challenges pertaining to selected technical areas and potential solutions. This report summarizes the proceedings of the technical sessions, outcome of the group work and recommendations made by participants to further strengthen influenza surveillance, preparedness and response in the WHO South-East Asia and Western Pacific Regions.