Health: While technological progress has dramatically increased the movement of people, products, and ideas throughout the Asia-Pacific, it has also facilitated the spread of infectious diseases, some with pandemic potential.

WHITEHOUSE: Fact Sheet: East Asia Summit Outcomes

In Asia, more than 120 people have been sickened, and 23 are dead, from a potent strain of bird flu that has the frightening markings of a potential pandemic strain.

FORBES: We're Not Prepared For China's Deadly Bird Flu

Work began on a big project to understand potential flu pandemic threats.

FORBES: Hype in Genes

Yet each has the potential to spark a pandemic, public-health experts fear.

WSJ: Virus's Toll in Saudi Arabia Raises Fears of Faster Spread

The Chief Medical Officer said antimicrobial resistance would be put on the government's national risk register of civil emergencies - which provides guidance on potential threats such as terrorist attacks, pandemic flu and major flooding.

BBC: Health

The current recommendation is based on unique conditions associated with the existing pandemic, including low levels of population immunity to 2009 H1N1, the potential for health-care personnel to be exposed to H1N1 patients, and other factors, Dimond says.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS