SARANAC LAKE — Scientists at the Trudeau Institute are working with their colleagues in the U.S. Navy to study the development of new ways to better protect members of the Armed Services and the public from the threat of pandemic influenza through the use of vaccines and triple-combination antiviral drugs.

In light of the World Health Organization's recent decision to declare a global pandemic for the first time in 41 years, the research takes on new importance.

Funds for the project were obtained through the joint efforts of Sens. Kirsten E. Gillibrand and Charles E. Schumer, who are also working to secure additional funds for a second project.

"We currently have an outstanding project under way with Navy personnel, and we hope to launch a second project to support the development of new triple-combination antiviral therapy this fall if funding is approved by Congress," David L. Woodland, Trudeau president and scientific investigator, said in a news release.

"We are anxious to begin the second project, as it involves a clinical trial, the results from which can be translated more quickly into public use.

"Our long-term goal is to create one vaccine that will provide years of protection against numerous strains of influenza. But on the way to that goal, we need to take steps to ensure the safety of those that protect our country and the public at large."