H1N1 Pandemic
Dear Readers,
Pandemics are rare events and have only occurred 3 times in the past century.
Yesterday, the World Health Organization (WHO) has increasedthe H1N1 influenza pandemic level to phase 6, which is the final alert phase. In the U.S., the H1N1 virus has been reported in all 50 states. Worldwide, there have been nearly 30,000 cases including 144 deaths.
The H1N1 influenza, initially known as swine flu, has continued to spread in various regions of the world despite cautionary steps which led to this week's WHO announcement. The organization is not advising that travel or international business be curtailed.
The designation of pandemic does not suggest that the virus will become more deadly. WHO reaffirmed that most infected individuals have mild disease and recover fully.
The U.S. government is devoting $1 billion to develop an H1N1 vaccine. This fall, both seasonal influenza and H1N1 vaccinations may be advised routinely for most Americans.
While international travel is permitted, travelers should still be counseled on how to avoid H1N1 and other infectious diseases. This would be of particular concern to travelers who have chronic medical conditions.
Travel Healthy, Travel Smart, Travel Clinics of America,
Alla Kirsch M.D.
Pandemics are rare events and have only occurred 3 times in the past century.
Yesterday, the World Health Organization (WHO) has increasedthe H1N1 influenza pandemic level to phase 6, which is the final alert phase. In the U.S., the H1N1 virus has been reported in all 50 states. Worldwide, there have been nearly 30,000 cases including 144 deaths.
The H1N1 influenza, initially known as swine flu, has continued to spread in various regions of the world despite cautionary steps which led to this week's WHO announcement. The organization is not advising that travel or international business be curtailed.
The designation of pandemic does not suggest that the virus will become more deadly. WHO reaffirmed that most infected individuals have mild disease and recover fully.
The U.S. government is devoting $1 billion to develop an H1N1 vaccine. This fall, both seasonal influenza and H1N1 vaccinations may be advised routinely for most Americans.
While international travel is permitted, travelers should still be counseled on how to avoid H1N1 and other infectious diseases. This would be of particular concern to travelers who have chronic medical conditions.
Travel Healthy, Travel Smart, Travel Clinics of America,
Alla Kirsch M.D.
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