Pandemic Influenza Preparedness

About Pandemic Influenza Preparedness

The Pandemic Influenza Preparedness PIP Framework was adopted by the WHO in 2011 after the 2009 H1N1 pandemic revealed inequities in vaccine access. Under the framework, manufacturers that use the WHO influenza surveillance network pay an annual partnership contribution and sign agreements committing a share of real time pandemic vaccine production to WHO. These contributions support surveillance, laboratory capacity, and pandemic preparedness in low and middle income countries. The framework also addresses virus sharing, requiring countries that share influenza viruses to receive benefits including vaccines. The PIP Framework was controversial during negotiations, with developing countries arguing that sharing viruses without receiving vaccines was inequitable. The framework is limited to influenza and does not cover other pandemic threats. Proposals to expand the model to other pathogens have been discussed in the context of the Pandemic Treaty.