On June 11, 2009, the WHO raised the level of pandemic alert from Phase 5 to Phase 6, indicating a global pandemic is under way.  A Phase 6 pandemic declaration is based on the worldwide spread of the virus and doesn’t represent its severity.  As of June 15, 2009, the WHO had reported 35,928 confirmed cases of H1N1 flu across 76 countries, with 163 confirmed deaths.

The CDC stated that the United States has had widespread transmission of H1N1 for some time now, so the transition to Phase 6 doesn’t change the day-to-day activities that have been going on around the country.  The CDC continues to monitor the H1N1 situation and work with state and local health departments and provider communities.  They are also following the situation in Southern Hemisphere countries that are entering their flu season, such as Chile and Australia.  By monitoring these countries, the CDC is hoping that we will have a better idea of what to expect for our own flu season, although the CDC and WHO both continue to stress that one of the challenges of this virus is its unpredictability.  The CDC’s primary advice for the public continues to be on reducing transmission and keeping individuals healthy and safe by covering coughs and sneezes and staying home when you’re ill.

EGA will continue to keep you updated on this situation at its website, http://www.ega-inc.com.  As experts in pandemic flu preparedness, EGA can assist you with any questions you have about preparing your organization for a pandemic.