The Ethical Framework for the Response to Pandemic Influenza
A UK Committee on Ethical Aspects of Pandemic Influenza was established last autumn to advise on ethical issues which may be faced in health and social care during an influenza pandemic. The Committee has Scottish representation and is chaired by the Very Reverend Graham Forbes, Provost of St Mary's Cathedral, Edinburgh.
The first major task undertaken by the Committee was to develop an ethical framework for those taking decisions about health issues which might arise during and before a pandemic. The framework provides several key ethical principles against which decisions should be tested and balanced, founded on the key principle of equal concern and respect. The Ethical Framework for the Response to Pandemic Influenza document was issued for comment by Department of Health on 16 March
The deadline for comments on the framework is 16 May. Comments can be sent by email to pandemicflu@dh.gsi.gov.uk or in writing to
The National Flu Pandemic Preparedness Team
Department of Health
452C Skipton House
80 London Road
London SE1 6LH
The Committee will be continuing its work and its scope has been expanded beyond health issues.
A copy of the framework can be found at http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Health/health/AvianInfluenza/ethics