H1N1 ~ Flu Babi

More Countries Confirm Cases of A/H1N1 Influenza Infection



WASHINGTON, DC -- April 28, 2009 -- Confirmed cases of A/H1N1 influenza infection have now been confirmed in Israel and New Zealand, bringing the total number of affected countries to 7. Mexico remains the only country with confirmed deaths related to this new strain of influenza, which is also commonly called swine influenza.

Israel has confirmed 1 case, and New Zealand has confirmed 3 cases. The other countries affected include Canada (13 cases), Mexico (26), Scotland (2), Spain (2), and the United States (64). In Mexico, 7 deaths related to A/H1N1 have been confirmed, though more are suspected.

Most cases outside of Mexico appear to be benign, many resolving without treatment; nonetheless, health officials around the world have been warning the situation could change very quickly.


The tally of confirmed cases in the United States jumped to 64 today, largely due to more cases confirmed in New York. All cases remain in the 5 states originally affected: California (10 cases), Kansas (2), New York (45), Ohio (1), and Texas (6). An additional 4 cases have been reported -- all pending CDC confirmation -- bringing the US total to 68.

Monday, the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) raised the influenza pandemic alert from phase 3 to phase 4, indicating the likelihood of a pandemic is increased, though not inevitable. WHO based their decision on the available data on confirmed outbreaks of A/H1N1 influenza in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The Committee also considered reports of possible spread to additional countries.

Around the world, health agencies are acting very aggressively to mitigate the outbreak. "Containment is not feasible," said Dr. Besser, explaining that the A/H1N1 influenza outbreaks are "diffuse and widespread."
That said, WHO has not issued any travel restrictions or border closures; however, the agency recommends people who are ill to delay international travel and for people developing symptoms following international travel to seek medical attention.


No vaccine for this strain of influenza is available, and development of the vaccine for seasonal influenza is ongoing. When asked if the A/H1N1 strain could be added to the seasonal vaccine under development.

SOURCES: Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Health Canada, European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control