The Asian Pacific Economic Cooperation emerging infections network

Issue: The Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) has undertaken an initi ative in emerging infections. Project: The APEC Emerging Infections Network project uses collaborative te lecommunications tools such as e-mail and a World Wide Web site to bridge t he broad geographic expanse and diversity of APEC. Scientists and policymak ers share information to effectively combat emerging infectious disease (EI D) through surveillance, prevention, research, and control measures. Results: In the project's first year, site visits compiled information on I nternet access in selected economies. Information sharing via electronic li sts has been successful; feedback suggests that these strategies will becom e increasingly useful. The Emerging Infections Network (EINet) Web site inc ludes project information, library access, surveillance data, prevention gu idelines, and distance learning resources. A pilot effort to promote the se cure electronic exchange of surveillance data demonstrated that informal co mmunications may be both preferable and more feasible during the early stag es of this project. Lesson Learned: Human net working is as important as technology-based netwo rking in addressing emerging infections. Internet technology in some APEC e conomies is barely adequate, but is becoming more reliable and accessible. Numerous member economies are eager to be included in project activities.