Parvaneh Mehrbod, Behrokh Farahmand,
Volume 12, Issue 4 (12-2024)
Abstract
Introduction: The global impact and significance of influenza are profound, from the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic to recent seasonal and avian influenza outbreaks. The ongoing need for international collaboration to control and mitigate the effects of influenza remains crucial. World Flu Day, launched on November 1, 2018, at the Asian-Pacific Centenary Spanish 1918-flu Symposium in Shenzhen, China, aimed to raise public awareness, accelerate scientific research, advocate for the development of a universal influenza vaccine, and strengthen the global political efforts for influenza prevention and control. The main objective of the conference was to cover all aspects of influenza, including epidemiology, vaccination, cross-species outbreaks, and treatments. Conference structure and highlights: The structure of the conference included the history of the Pasteur Institute and its Influenza Department, pathogenesis, epidemiology, vaccination, and treatment of human and avian influenza. The key topics discussed were history of the Pasteur Institute's services, introducing the Influenza Department, pathogenesis and epidemiology of influenza infections in Iran and the region, influenza vaccines from past to present, current clinical status of influenza in humans, herbal remedies for influenza treatment, avian influenza and its risks to humans, and emerging influenza viruses and cross-species outbreaks. Conclusion/impact: The important lessons learned from past influenza outbreaks—including vaccination protocols, treatment strategies, cross-species outbreaks, and global collaborations—were acknowledged as critical for guiding current and future pandemic preparedness efforts under the One Health approach, contributing substantially to the global fight against influenza.
Mehdi Fazlalipour, Farzaneh Sheikholeslami,
Volume 12, Issue 4 (12-2024)
Abstract
Introduction: Rabies is a deadly viral disease that persists in many countries, causing mortality in both humans and animals. Raising public awareness is crucial for rabies control, and World Rabies Day serves as an annual platform to educate communities and promote strategies for the prevention and eventual elimination of this disease globally. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the World Rabies Day conference, held on September 28, 2024, which adopted a One Health approach to coordinate the activities of the Ministry of Health, the Veterinary Organization, and the WHO Collaborating Center for Reference and Research on Rabies. The conference aimed to disseminate information and enhance the capacity of targeted health professionals across Iran to implement effectively rabies control strategies. Conference structure and highlights: This conference was conducted in a hybrid format, featuring both in-person and online sessions. Participants could attend either in person or virtually via webinar. Key topics discussed included rabies virology and pathogenesis, epidemiology, the roles of veterinary organizations and the Iranian CDC, education and prevention strategies, treatment protocols, and virus detection methods. The insights gained from this scientific event are expected to inform policy decisions and guide the efforts of health authorities and relevant organizations in effectively controlling rabies in Iran. Conclusion/impact: Raising awareness about rabies virus virulence and the importance of rabies control within both medical and veterinary fields is crucial for achieving elimination goals. By providing targeted training to health professionals and educating the public, the conference and the broader One Health approach can contribute to significant progress towards rabies control and eventual elimination in Iran. This integrated approach fosters collaboration and strengthens the capacity for effective rabies prevention and control measures.
