History Lessons: H1N1 in a Historical Context--What We Have Learned and What Comes Next

Wednesday February 17th, 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Room: Atrium Ballroom

Plenary

Session Number:

John M. Barry
When the H1N1 pandemic first erupted, it generated worldwide concern and in many cases—fear—and sometimes— outright panic. International calls were made to seal borders, the Egyptian government slaughtered all pigs, and some western governments responded by activating plans that were designed for H5N1. During the months since a counter-reaction has set in, many critics have attacked the entire H1N1 response as an overreaction to a hyped non-event.  In the press, there are accusations that pharmaceutical manufacturers pressured WHO to declare a pandemic to increase profits.
 
John Barry will examine the H1N1 pandemic, place it in historical context, evaluate the event itself, and describe lessons learned from both the past and this pandemic. He will also discuss likely scenarios for the future in terms of future waves of this pandemic, other possible influenza pandemics, and national and international politics of pandemic influenza.

Bio