According to the available evidence and levels set by the World Health Organization (WHO), the scientific criteria for an influenza pandemic has been met. Director-General Dr. Margaret Chan of WHO, has therefore decided to raise the level of influenza pandemic alert from phase 5 to phase 6 (of 6) as number of deaths increased.
According to her released statement to the press on June 11, 2009,
I have conferred with leading influenza experts, virologists, and public health officials. In line with procedures set out in the International Health Regulations, I have sought guidance and advice from an Emergency Committee established for this purpose.
On the basis of available evidence, and these expert assessments of the evidence, the scientific criteria for an influenza pandemic have been met.
I have therefore decided to raise the level of influenza pandemic alert from phase 5 to phase 6.
The world is now at the start of the 2009 influenza pandemic.
At present, 74 countries have officially reported 28,774 cases of influenza H1N1infection, including 144 deaths worldwide, as a rule of them mild and requiring no treatment. Currently, the countries with the most cases are United States with 13,217, Mexico 6,241 (the highest number of deaths, 108 cases), Canada 2,446, Chile 1,694 and Australia 1,307.
Dr. Chan says she believes an endemic is below way, but was seeking verification that the H1N1 strain is spreading rapidly as of person to qualities scarce the Americas or declaring a global epidemic.
Director-General Dr. Margaret Chan further warned countries that they should prepared to see cases, or further spread of cases, in the near future and be ready for a second wave. WHO already sent guidance on specific and precautionary measures to the ministries of health of all countries. We should all be vigilant.
“We are all in this together, and we will all get through this, together.”
March 13th, 2010 - 9:44 am
Been to Pattaya City a couple of times now, first time was in June 2005, then back at Songkran 2009. What a phenomenal holiday spot! It provides for everybody: if your looking for cozy Thai people there is masses of them, if you want authentic food there is quite a little and nightlife is astonishing. If you want a cheap vacation, you can have it – if you desire a costly holiday, you can have it also. My dad is totally in love with the place and has just bought into a massage shop over there. My children love it as well. What a fantastic place to celebrate New Year!