The WHO (Word Health Organization) says that fewer than three dozen nations are capable of early detection and the quick response that is needed to contain the rapidly spreading bird flu and other viruses that could threaten humans.

Combating the spread of the H5N1 avian influenza, which has killed 103 people worldwide since it reemerged in 2003, has become critical to governments around the world because experts fear it could become a pandemic that could kill millions and cause major catastrophic economic damage.

“Developed countries are in position to practice satisfactory early detection and rapid response. Worldwide, only 20 to 30 countries are able to do that currently,” said Dr. Bernard Vallat, director-general of the World Organization for Animal Health. “All the others, 140 or more, need help.”

Rich countries need to help poorer ones with detection programs and compensation for farmers to prevent the global spread of “zoonoses,” diseases that can spread from animals to humans, Vallat said at the International Conference of Emerging Infectious Diseases in Atlanta.

At a January conference in Beijing, governments and organizations pledged $1.9 billion for a global “rapid containment” program for bird flu.

The World Health Organization said on Tuesday that bird flu killed five young people in Azerbaijan, taking the global death toll to 103 since it reemerged in late 2003. The virus has spread with alarming speed in recent weeks, pushing into Europe and Africa.

The United States said this week it expects to see its first cases of bird flu this year. Governments need to pledge more money, and take action. All people around the world need to know what to do and how to prepare for the bird flu pandemic.

Now is time time to educate.

Tags: burd flu, pandemic, Avian Flu, H5N1 avian influenza