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SEAICRN |
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In 2003, a highly pathogenic avian influenza caused by the H5N1 virus crossed the species barrier from poultry to human beings. As of March 30, 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) had received reports of 413 cases of human infection. Of that number, 256 people -- more than 60 percent -- had died. The highest incidence is in Indonesia and Vietnam. The threat of an influenza pandemic, which the WHO conservatively estimates could kill as many as 7.4 million people worldwide, has led the U.S. National Institutes of Health to establish the Southeast Asia Infectious Disease Clinical Research Network (SEAICRN), a collaborative partnership of hospitals and institutions that conducts research on infectious diseases, including influenza, that are caused by avian or human viruses. Family Health International (FHI) assists the SEAICRN to enhance the capacity of sites to perform studies in accordance with international standards and to facilitate the planning and conduct of studies. FHI conducts site assessments, training, and activities to build research capacity. FHI also supports the sites in developing and implementing quality research systems, particularly with reference to Good Clinical Practices and regulations for the protection of human subjects. FHI's support for pharmacy and clinical laboratory systems involves working with site investigators, local governments, and research institutions in Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, and the United States to advance the scientific knowledge and management of human and avian influenza through integrated, collaborative international clinical research. The network is undertaking several studies whose goal is to identify antiviral medicines for prevention and treatment. |
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