For the first time in history, we can track the evolution of a pandemic in real-time... Influenza viruses are notorious for their rapid mutation and unpredictable behaviour.

Many diseases including malaria, dengue, meningitis - just a few examples - these are what we call climate-sensitive diseases, because such climate dimensions for rainfall, humidity and temperature would influence the epidemics, the outbreaks, either directly influencing the parasites or the mosquitoes that carry them.

I have a reputation for being a straight-talker.

What amazes me most is that the media and I have fostered a close relationship.

After all it really is all of humanity that is under threat during a pandemic.

Pandemic influenza is by nature an international issue; it requires an international solution.

...we hope to stop the transmission in six to nine months