Table 2. The major criteria for recognition and reaction to emerging infections.

• Alerting clinicians to expect and react to any unusual clinical presentation

• Swiftness of response

• Provision of a high standard of diagnostic capabilities plus availability of reference reagents

• Availability of containment facilities to at least level 3

• Involvement of epidemiologists and communicable disease specialist at the earliest opportunity

• A capacity to react with appropriate control and prevention measures