GCC experts will gather to discuss emergency plans in the event of avian and pandemic influenza at a two-day workshop opening in Manama.

The United Nations (UN) teams worldwide have been preparing for a possible influenza pandemic due to the threat of avian influenza outbreaks over the last few years.

In compliance with a request from the UN secretary-general, UN country teams in the region developed contingency plans in order to prepare for a possible influenza pandemic in early 2006.

In accordance with original guidance, contingency plans have focused on staff health and safety, specifying medical and non-medical interventions as well as internal communication arrangements.

A review of these plans is required to reflect more recent UN guidance as well as changes in national preparedness.

The original World Health Organisation guidance on health and medical services of May 2005 has been developed.

At the workshop UN country teams in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, UAE and Qatar will be given the latest UN guidance and information on pandemic scenarios and the problems likely to arise during a response to any outbreak.-TradeArabia News Service