The once worldwide epidemic (pandemic) H1N1 influenza (sometimes called “swine flu”) is now in the post-pandemic stage, according to the World Health Organization (WHO, Aug 10, 2010). Last year many countries around the globe experienced the emergence of the new strain of virus to which most people had no immunity. It caused unusual and extensive outbreaks, and many suffered from severe symptoms and death. Whereas influenza is usually a seasonal phenomenon, the H1N1 2009 outbreak occurred throughout the winter and even the summer months in many countries.
The post-pandemic stage is characterized by the fact that since the virus has extensively spread throughout the continents last year, some level of immunity among the different populations now exists. Except for a few like India, its pattern of occurrence is now more seasonal in many countries. However, outbreaks can still occur, especially in places which were not previously affected.
Read more at Suite101: Flu Season: Updates on Influenza A H1N1
The post-pandemic stage is characterized by the fact that since the virus has extensively spread throughout the continents last year, some level of immunity among the different populations now exists. Except for a few like India, its pattern of occurrence is now more seasonal in many countries. However, outbreaks can still occur, especially in places which were not previously affected.
Read more at Suite101: Flu Season: Updates on Influenza A H1N1
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