Real-time videoconferencing: promise for pandemic influenza preparedness

In preparing for an influenza pandemic it has been recognised that routine communication modes are inadequate to support transnational responses to public health emergencies. We assessed the Access Grid, a high bandwidth, open source network, as a possible solution. Through the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Emerging Infections Network (APEC ElNet), we connected various public health sites in the APEC region via the Access Grid. In January 2006, ten APEC members discussed their epidemiological situation and their pandemic planning status in a 210-min videoconference. Few technical difficulties were experienced. Clinical and public health collaborations, surveillance, scenario exercises, vaccine and antiviral use, and business continuity planning were discussed. In a post-conference evaluation by five sites, the videoconference was reported to be both effective and efficient in promoting regional information sharing on preparedness.