World Health Organization calls H1N1 Flu a pandemic
Public Health prepares for local resurgence this fall and winter
The WHO (World Health Organization)’s announcement of a global pandemic confirms what Public Health – Seattle & King County has anticipated: H1N1 flu, commonly known as swine flu, continues to spread widely around the world. For weeks Public Health has been intensively preparing for the anticipated return of the virus.
That means we’re continuing to closely monitor disease trends in King County. 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 percent of the cases nationally among people aged 5-25 years of age. Forty-one percent 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 is based on geographic spread of the influenza virus, not on the severity of the illness. Thus far H1N1 influenza has not been more severe than the typical seasonal flu, but since it is a novel virus, many people do not have immunity to it.
Although H1N1 activity is decreasing in King County as we enter the summer, Public Health anticipates significantly more widespread outbreaks this fall and winter. This may include the potential for an increased number of illnesses than during a typical flu season.
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.
In the coming months, we encourage you to continue to prepare at home, school and work, and to check Public Health’s website for updated information: www.kingcounty.gov/health/H1N1.
Learn what you can do to protect your family by going to the Public Health H1N1 virus site. For information about H1N1, call the Flu Hotline at 877-903-KING (5464). TTY Relay: 711. Available in English and Spanish/Español.
Learn what you can do to protect your family by going to the