A (H1N1) pandemic has begun

WHO raised the level of influenza A (H1N1) pandemic alert to phases 6, as sustained community-level transmission of the virus is taking place in more than one region of the world. The term pandemic means that an influenza virus that is new to human beings has appeared is spreading and is causing disease in many parts of the world. As of 06:00 Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) on 10 June 2009, 74 countries worldwide had reported over 27 000 cases of influenza A (H1N1), including 141 deaths. A total of 30 of the 53 countries in the WHO European Region had reported 1572 cases of influenza A (H1N1) on 11 June 2009.

Based on the information about the virus to date, as well as its impact on countries’ health systems, societies and the economies, WHO considers the overall global severity of the pandemic to be moderate. The situation varies between countries and may change over time. Most of the cases in individuals have been mild, with a limited number of severe cases and deaths that are occurring primarily among young people, including the previously healthy and those with pre-existing medical conditions or pregnancy.

WHO is closely monitoring how the pandemic evolves and supporting countries by developing guidelines as they learn more about the virus, supplying medicines and equipment, including antiviral drugs, and working with vaccine manufacturers to ensure a vaccine is developed and available to those in need.


Advice for the public
1. At present, the vast majority of people who fall ill can be cared for at home and recover without medical treatment.
2. People should be aware of signs of severe illness and not delay seeking medical attention in cases where someone experiences shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, or if a fever continues more than three days.
3. Anyone who becomes ill with a fever above 38oC should seek medical attention.
4. Parents with a young child who is ill should get medical care if the child has fast or labored breathing, continuing fever or convulsions (seizures), or is confused, unconscious or difficult to awaken.
5. People caring for someone who are sick should protect themselves and others with careful hygiene (hand washing, cough etiquette).
6. People should become informed, and stay informed as things change.

WHO recommendations
1. No borders should be closed. Because the virus is already widespread, it cannot be stopped at a border, port or airport. There is no evidence that border closings stop the spread of the disease, and they may seriously disrupt international traffic and trade.
2. Travel should not be restricted. People who are infected with the virus, and are capable of infecting others, may not show symptoms, so they cannot be distinguished from others who are not infected.
3. There should be more emphasis on providing care and less emphasis on stopping the spread of the virus. Countries should focus their resources on caring for people who fall ill.