August 30, 2016 SPADA Meeting Book

IOM Recommendations* 1999 WHO Sanctioned Research Agenda

• Molecular characterization of Variola virus for more sensitive and specific diagnostic development – Sequencing entire genomes and specific genes • Antiviral • Less reactogenic vaccine development • Animal model – pathogenesis, model system for antiviral & novel vaccine evaluation • Fundamental research – host pathogen interaction

* Assessment of Future Scientific Needs for Live Variola Virus ; N.A.Press (1999)

WHA Resolutions and WHO Protocol Approval Process • 1999 WHA resolution - postpone decision on destruction until 2002 • 2002 WHA resolution - postpone decision on destruction • 2005 WHA – Increased focus on “essential” public health research • Interpreted by WHO committee to preclude fundamental research – Major review of the research to the WHA in 2011 • Advisory Group of Independent Experts (AGIES) review Variola virus research in 2010 2011 WHA • – Resolution to revisit in 3 years • AGIES conduct second review of Variola virus research in 2013 • 2013 WHA – Request to consider question of synthetic biology • Report shared 2016