[National public health institutes: a coordinated and comprehensive approach toward influenza A H1N1 and other threats to public health].

The current influenza A H1N1 epidemic has demonstrated once again the importance of being able to count on robust, coordinated, and comprehensive public health systems. Countries that do rely on such health systems have proven to recognize, diagnose, and treat influenza in a timely manner, and to provide the public with the education needed to minimize the number of deaths and acute cases. The International Association of National Public Health Institutes (IANPHI) recommends that all countries begin to coordinate their national public health efforts. IANPHI offers its support and guidance to all who would create or strengthen their national public health institutes. By strengthening national public health systems, the ability to collaborate and the security of all countries is heightened. These institutions exist for the public good, and any improvements made to them are also a contribution toward better health for the population.