The Asian Pacific Economic Cooperation Emerging Infections Network.

Issue: The Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) has undertaken an initiative in emerging infections.

Project: The APEC Emerging Infections Network project uses collaborative telecommunications tools such as e-mail and a World Wide Web site to bridge the broad geographic expanse and diversity of APEC. Scientists and policymakers share information to effectively combat emerging infectious disease (EID) through surveillance, prevention, research, and control measures.

Results: In the project's first year, site visits compiled information on Internet access in selected economies. Information sharing via electronic lists has been successful; feedback suggests that these strategies will become increasingly useful. The Emerging Infections Network (EINet) Web site includes project information, library access, surveillance data, prevention guidelines, and distance learning resources. A pilot effort to promote the secure electronic exchange of surveillance data demonstrated that informal communications may be both preferable and more feasible during the early stages of this project.

Lessons Learned: Human networking is as important as technology-based networking in addressing emerging infections. Internet technology in some APEC economies is barely adequate, but is becoming more reliable and accessible. Numerous member economies are eager to be included in project activities.