US Dept of State published today the Opening Remarks from the Institute of Medicine's Public Meeting of the Committee on Transforming the Case for U.S. Commitment to Global Health Washington, DC March 24, 2008

It may come from the current strain of highly pathogenic bird flu, or from another source. Depending on its severity, tens of thousands to millions of Americans could die during such a pandemic. In response to the risk the U.S., and all nations face, the President launched the International Partnership for Avian and Pandemic Influenza in 2005. This diplomatic partnership among countries is dedicated to protecting human and animal health and preparing for this threat.

Much of the nearly $629 million the U.S. has invested internationally for avian and pandemic influenza is strengthening basic health systems by increasing health worker skills, improving laboratory capacity, and educating populations in proper hygiene. This work enables nations to better handle avian flu - and many other diseases as well. Our investment also makes the U.S. better prepared to protect our own citizens. A more effective health system in Egypt, for example, will not only save Egyptian lives but will help to slow the spread of a pandemic, and save lives here at home.