Avian Influenza

Constella's Avian Influenza Capabilities Fact Sheet (PDF)

Risk from Avian Influenza (specifically the highly pathogenic type A H5N1 virus) is generally low in humans. However, since 1997 there have been confirmed cases of human infection following close contact with infected domestic poultry. The concern is that this influenza virus could mutate over time, allowing easier spread to and among humans. Given that these viruses do not commonly infect humans, there is little or no immune protection against them. If the H5N1virus were to gain the capacity to spread from one human to another, a pandemic could occur.

Constella staff with expertise in pandemic planning and disease modeling are closely monitoring the progress of the disease and preparing for an immediate response to a potential Avian Influenza pandemic. Strengthening international systems that focus on the rapid and expert detection of AI, interpretation, and communication of results will be critical to slowing, managing, and recovering from pandemic influenza.

Constella Futures is using its close ties and excellent working relationships with Ministries of Health throughout the world, as well as our expertise in disease surveillance, diagnostics, and health communications to assist countries in planning to minimize the impact of an outbreak. We have vast experience of developing and implementing behavior change communications programs to create the adoption of specific behaviors. These programs have been used to inform populations about the impact of infectious diseases, improve maternal and child health, and prevent the spread of malaria and HIV. These same strategies can be applied to specialized populations, such as poultry producers, to help curb the spread of the avian flu virus. They may also extend to the wider population in general to inform them of the nature of the disease and how to avoid contracting it.

For more information about Constella’s Avian Influenza capabilities, click here (PDF) to download our fact sheet.