Pandemics

This entry reviews bioethical principles relevant to responding to pandemic threats in general and pandemic influenza in particular. Selected issues are examined to draw out some of the advantages and limitations of various principles or competing bioethical frameworks. The entry considers both examples of issues impinging on civil rights, such as respect for bodily integrity (vaccination) or liberty (quarantine), as well as illustrative examples of issues that raise issues of distributional justice (regional inequalities, priorities for vaccination) or the realization of socioeconomic rights (the right to health). Consideration is given to debates about the responsibilities owed by and to essential service workers (health-care or emergency workers) and the issue of protection of vulnerable individuals or groups. The entry concludes by identifying the ongoing challenges posed by globalization