Rumor Surveillance and Avian Influenza H5N1

Abstract

We describe the enhanced rumor surveillance during the avian influenza H5N1 outbreak in 2004. The World Health Organization’s Western Pacific Regional Office identified 40 rumors; 9 were verified to be true. Rumor surveillance informed immediate public health action and prevented unnecessary and costly responses.

Keywords

• avian influenza H5N1
• rumor
• surveillance
• regional outbreak
• dispatch