Daniela De Angelis (MRC Biostatistics Unit) is part of a multi-institutional study that has improved the UK preparedness in the event of an influenza pandemic, by creating an innovative network of research studies ‘hibernating’ on standby ready to be activated if an outbreak strikes.
 
During the 2009 influenza A H1N1 pandemic several research studies in the UK were rapidly funded and activated for clinical and public health actions. However, some studies were too late for their results to have a timely and substantial effect on clinical care, due to the time required to call for research proposals, assess, fund, and initiate the projects. In recognition of these inherent delays, a portfolio of projects was funded by the National Institute for Health Research. These studies have now been set up and are on standby awaiting activation in the event of a pandemic being declared.
 
According to the article, published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases, the network could be replicated in whole or part by other countries. It could also be used as a model for other health emergencies, including other infectious diseases and chemical, biological and radiation incidents.