The Asia Pacific Region is said to be the epicentre of epidemics, following what was seen from SARS, Nipah and H1N1 events. The countries of the Asia Pacific Region are interconnected, they face similar threats to health, and their protection from those threats is only as strong as the weakest link. SARS, Nipah and H1N1 underscores the importance of emerging diseases and their impact on health and economy of the countries.

Shortly after the end of the SARS outbreak, it is immediately recognized by all the importance of a strong infection control framework that looks into implementation of international infection control standards to prevent spread of healthcare associated pathogens. Some Asian countries e.g. Hong Kong and Singapore saw an expansion in their infection control staffing and provision of more isolation rooms. The readiness for pandemics was tested and confirmed during the H1N1 pandemic. Through the latter outbreak, we learnt flexibility and were able to adjust infection control practices quickly to manage the outbreak. The same flexibility is required in managing infection control issues following the earthquake or tsunami incidences in the region.

However, a silent global pandemic involving the multidrug resistant organisms demands our attention. Unfortunately, unlike SARS, Nipah or H1N1, the recognition of the problem is hampered by slow detection, non-standardised definitions and varied antimicrobial usage patterns.

The importance of continual surveillance cannot be over-emphasized. The integrated response from both healthcare systems and governmental agencies are next necessary to ensure smooth execution of infection control recommendations. Finally, strategic and timely communications with both public and healthcare systems are essential in keeping awareness high and maintaining order.