SciDev.Net

The media must be involved in African preparations for a possible bird flu outbreak.

Journalists in China — as elsewhere — have an important function to play in reporting on how science and technology affects people's lives.

Developing countries need to recognise the long-term benefits of creating the capacity to research and develop flu vaccines.

The only way for Africa to combat bird flu successfully is through an effective communication strategy that enables the public to prepare both for outbreaks in their poultry stocks and for a possible human pandemic.

As prospects grow of a global flu pandemic, it is important for governments to recognise that responsible science journalism can play a significant role in limiting its impact.

Accurate information about the spread of avian influenza — and the wide dissemination of that information — is essential if the spreading pandemic is to be contained. Journalists have an important role to play in ensuring that both goals are achieved.

Scientific advances since the major flu pandemics of the 20th century mean that, in principle, the world is better equipped to prevent bird flu from having the same consequences. But obstacles still exist, and greater transparency must be the order of the day.