Since the end of the cold war the world economy has become dominated by Western [largely US] interests. In this period there have developed several pandemics or epidemics of infectious diseases that have affected most nations. HIV, SARS, Avian Influenza, Hepatitis-C, Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, drug-resistant TB, viral zoonoses, are specific examples that will be discussed in terms of their genesis, economic impact and consequences for ways of life in the range of economies – developed, developing and under developed countries.The burden falls most on the underdeveloped countries who are least able to mount the resources to combat the consequences of these global infections. The capability to diagnose, prevent, treat and manage is largely in the hands of commercial interests that are anchored into international trade agreements. This circumstance contrasts with the situation that existed for vaccine development and distribution in the early parts of 20th century. Most countries established “public good” institutions that developed vaccines for public health purposes [diphtheria, tetanus, polio, pneumococcal antisera are examples]. In this 21st century the international capability for developing vaccines is largely in the hands of industry.Thus the developing countries need support of UN or similar global organizations to underwrite product development that suits their needs. The process of product development, safety and efficacy assessment will be presented in a manner that indicates the crucial and essential role of developing nations – and why they should receive fair recognition for their contributions.
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