FDA approval of avian flu vaccine moves preparedness forward

A statement from Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response Nicole Lurie, M.D.

We now have a flu vaccine to protect the health of a greater number of people, should this deadly virus change from one that spreads from birds to people to one that can spread person to person like the seasonal influenza virus.

From the ASPR Blog:
Enhancing Public Health Emergency Preparedness Beyond our Borders

Since 2006, ASPR has partnered with the Institut Pasteur to address pandemic influenza preparedness gaps in Sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia and to enhance the implementation of the International Health Regulations.

HHS boosts global ability to respond to pandemics

Sustainable, international capacity to manufacture influenza vaccine reduces pandemic threat

ASPR announced grants totaling $15 million to build a sustainable capacity to manufacture influenza vaccine in developing countries and help reduce the global threat of influenza pandemics.

HHS awards grants for Hurricane Sandy recovery research

More than $8 million in grants will support research to aid the long-term recovery in areas hard hit by Hurricane Sandy in October 2012. These grants are the first ones that HHS has funded for research needed by local communities to support long-term recovery efforts.

HHS fosters development of new blood test for anthrax

New test would provide fast results for medical care after anthrax attack