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NZ scientists to tackle international influenza study
New Zealand scientists have been selected to lead a groundbreaking international study of the influenza virus
5 October 2011
New Zealand scientists have been selected to lead a groundbreaking international study of the influenza virus.
And the reputation gained during the Swine Flu pandemic is being credited with helping it get the contract, which is funded by the US Health Department.
The Institute of Environmental Science and Research will lead the five year study in Auckland, with other partners.
ESR's Dr Virginia Hope says the project will look at how the flu virus, and other respiratory pathogens, spread through populations.
"The people who are involved in the bid, have worked together not just during the pandemic but also prior to that time and now have quite a strong track record," she says.
Ms Hope says the aim is to better understand the virus, and prevent its spread around the world.
Globally, influenza accounts for up to half a million deaths each year, and billions of dollars is spent on vaccines.
Dr Hope says the research will be used to inform public health in New Zealand, and around the world.
She says the contract follows the international reputation New Zealand gained for its response to the Swine Flu pandemic.
ESR's being congratulated for its successful bid for the five-year, multi million dollar flu research project.
Health Minister Tony Ryall says the result will be greater knowledge about how the flu spreads, improved surveillance and vaccination targets.
By Laura Heathcote
NZ scientists to tackle international influenza study
New Zealand scientists have been selected to lead a groundbreaking international study of the influenza virus
5 October 2011
New Zealand scientists have been selected to lead a groundbreaking international study of the influenza virus.
And the reputation gained during the Swine Flu pandemic is being credited with helping it get the contract, which is funded by the US Health Department.
The Institute of Environmental Science and Research will lead the five year study in Auckland, with other partners.
ESR's Dr Virginia Hope says the project will look at how the flu virus, and other respiratory pathogens, spread through populations.
"The people who are involved in the bid, have worked together not just during the pandemic but also prior to that time and now have quite a strong track record," she says.
Ms Hope says the aim is to better understand the virus, and prevent its spread around the world.
Globally, influenza accounts for up to half a million deaths each year, and billions of dollars is spent on vaccines.
Dr Hope says the research will be used to inform public health in New Zealand, and around the world.
She says the contract follows the international reputation New Zealand gained for its response to the Swine Flu pandemic.
ESR's being congratulated for its successful bid for the five-year, multi million dollar flu research project.
Health Minister Tony Ryall says the result will be greater knowledge about how the flu spreads, improved surveillance and vaccination targets.
By Laura Heathcote