Rumor surveillance and avian influenza H5N1

Emerg Infect Dis. 2005 Mar;11(3):463-6. doi: 10.3201/eid1103.040657.

Abstract

We describe the enhanced rumor surveillance during the avian influenza H5N1 outbreak in 2004. The World Health Organization's Western Pacific Regional Office identified 40 rumors; 9 were verified to be true. Rumor surveillance informed immediate public health action and prevented unnecessary and costly responses.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Communication
  • Disease Outbreaks
  • Humans
  • Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype*
  • Influenza A virus*
  • Influenza, Human / epidemiology
  • Influenza, Human / prevention & control*
  • Population Surveillance / methods*
  • World Health Organization