The last stages of polio eradication suggest a new model of health campaigns much more responsive to global changes and local context.

Efforts to limit publication of controversial bird flu research could end up doing more harm than good.

Science journalists must help to root out misleading scientific claims, but not without sensitivity to culture and the limitations of science.

The world is close to eradicating polio, but countries need consistent vigilance — including informed media coverage — to reach this goal.

Focussing on the steps needed to eradicate malaria, not just control it, can broaden and stimulate support for health research agendas.

A decision to delay, yet again, the destruction of smallpox virus stocks ignores the concerns of the developing world.

Science can help design strategies to tackle malnutrition. The challenge is turning this knowledge into action.

Climate change's complex links with insect-borne disease need solid research — not alarmism that distracts from other crucial factors.

The prospects of a severe global swine flu pandemic appear to be diminishing. Informed reporting can take some of the credit.

International surveillance systems are needed to curb the rise of antibiotic resistance.

The media must be involved in African preparations for a possible bird flu outbreak.

Journalists in China — as elsewhere — have an important function to play in reporting on how science and technology affects people's lives.

The research community's failure in the past 25 years to develop either a vaccine or a cure for HIV/AIDS underlines the need to be more, not less, scientific.

Developing countries need to recognise the long-term benefits of creating the capacity to research and develop flu vaccines.

The only way for Africa to combat bird flu successfully is through an effective communication strategy that enables the public to prepare both for outbreaks in their poultry stocks and for a possible human pandemic.

Although research on malaria needs greater support, the fight against the disease will not be won in the laboratory but with tools in the field, many of which already exist. Improved techniques are needed to communicate this reality to decision-makers.

As prospects grow of a global flu pandemic, it is important for governments to recognise that responsible science journalism can play a significant role in limiting its impact.

There are few clearer examples of the need to combine high-tech solutions to development issues with the reality of problems as experienced and perceived on the ground than the challenge of designing an international strategy to combat malaria.

Disappointing results of clinical trials of a promising pair of new AIDS vaccines have highlighted the dilemmas faced by those determining strategy in this field. Fortunately, reactions on all sides indicate a willingness to use science as the principal basis of their decisions.