The H1N1 influenza virus, commonly referred to as the Swine Flu, “has largely run its course.”
Wednesday, the World Health Organization's Director-General, Dr. Margaret Chan, announced that the flu that killed many around the globe and sickened scores of people is now moved into the post-pandemic period.
However, the WHO warns, though, that just because this flu virus is post-pandemic, doesn’t mean that it has vanished entirely. Dr. Chan warns that small outbreaks of the virus are still being found around the world.
The diminishing scare is seemingly caused by populations, infected with the virus, developing immunities. Also, many countries have reported good vaccination coverage, especially in high risk groups.
The WHO is continuing to monitor the H1N1 virus, though. Their website states, “[p]andemics, like the viruses that cause them, are unpredictable. So is the immediate post-pandemic period. There will be many questions, and we will have clear answers for only some. Continued vigilance is extremely important, and WHO has issued advice on recommended surveillance, vaccination, and clinical management during the post-pandemic period.”
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