Avian Influenza and the Pandemic Threat

The world is now in the post-pandemic period. Based on knowledge about past pandemics, the H1N1 (2009) virus is expected to continue to circulate as a seasonal virus for some years to come. While the level of concern is now greatly diminished, vigilance on the part of national health authorities remains important. Such vigilance is especially critical in the immediate post-pandemic period, when the behaviour of the H1N1 (2009) virus as a seasonal virus cannot be reliably predicted. {World Health Organization, 08/10/2010}

[Clinical Crossroads] /.. Peaks of seasonal influenza activity occur annually in many countries, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. Using the case of Ms R, a 29-year-old woman who presented with acute onset of respiratory symptoms and was evaluated for influenza, considerations regarding symptoms and signs, evaluation, treatment, and prevention of influenza are discussed. {Journal of the American Medical Association, 08/10/2010}

The pandemic threat of the H1N1 or "swine flu" virus has now passed, World Health Organization Director General Margaret Chan announced today.Related Articles:Committee Examines Undue Influence, Coordination In WHO Pandemic Flu ResponseWHO’s Chan Responds To Allegations Of Misconduct On Flu PandemicWHO Spins New Defence Of Its Swine Flu Response {Intellectual Property Watch, 08/10/2010}