More on Pandemic Flu

Just in case you have not turned on the TV, radio, read the paper or had internet access....... here is the latest.

The WHO (World Health Organization)’s announcement of a global pandemic confirms what we anticipated: H1N1 flu, commonly known as swine flu, continues to spread widely around the world. For weeks, State, County and Local officials have been intensively planning and preparing for the anticipated return of the virus in the fall and continue on that path.

H1N1 flu is still circulating in our community, but the level of illness appears to be decreasing, with fewer reports of flu-like illness from hospitals and schools. H1N1 virus has caused a disproportionate number of cases and hospitalizations in younger people, with 57% of the cases nationally among people aged 5-25 years of age. 41% of the hospitalizations are also among this age group.

The severity of the H1N1 virus has not changed here in King County or anywhere around the world. The WHO’s declaration of a pandemic (phase 6) is based on geographic spread of the influenza virus, not on the severity of the illness.

It’s important to note that although H1N1 activity is decreasing in King County as we enter the summer, we anticipate significantly more widespread outbreaks this fall and winter. This may include the potential for an increased number of illnesses and deaths in younger persons than during a typical flu season. Since this is a new virus strain, we know that many people will not have immunity to H1N1 flu.

This is a critical time to prepare for whatever the flu might bring in the fall.
Public Health is collaborating with health care, schools and other community partners to be ready.
Individuals and families must also prepare, including taking steps now to plan for possible school closures (such as setting up alternative child care and finding ways to work from home) and absences from work.
Businesses and organizations must also be ready to cope with a reduced work force if many become ill or need to stay at home.

Influenza can be serious for many people, regardless of whether it's this new strain of swine flu or the seasonal flu we see annually.

Be safe and have a great weekend,
Carl