In 1997 and again since 2003, there has been concern about the the Influenza A(H5N1) virus which continues to circulate causing outbreaks in birds and occasional human infections.
In the midst of ongoing concerns about the H5N1 virus adapting to humans and causing a pandemic, a new influenza virus (H1N1) emerged from the Americas. The 2009 pandemic appears to have been similar in impacts to the 1957 and 1968 pandemics, but with better surveillance as well as improved medical care and therapeutics likely leading to lower overall mortality. In addition, preparedness efforts are likely to have helped reduce its impact.
On 10 August 2010, the World Health Organization declared that the world is now in the post-pandemic period as the new virus is now behaving as a seasonal influenza virus. This is the normal pattern with influenza pandemics.
The world must now prepare for the next pandemic.
Online Resource Centre
Avian and Pandemic Influenza Communication Resources
Hanoi Declaration, 2010
New Delhi Vision and Road Map, 2008
Bamako Declaration, December, 2006
Bellagio Statement, July 2006
Beijing Declaration, January 2006
All links open into PDF.
Reports
Behaviours Now and During a Pandemic
Flu-WISE:
Wash - Inform - Stay Apart - Etiquette
Flu-CARE:
Care - Assess - Rest - Evaluate
Partner sites on Avian Influenza
