Ladies and gentlemen,
Last night, WHO's Director-General Dr Margaret Chan announced that we are moving from Phase 5 to Phase 6 on the influenza pandemic alert scale. This means that we are now in a full-fledged influenza A (H1N1) pandemic.
I would like to stress that the pandemic alert system reflects the geographic spread of the virus infection. It does not indicate the severity of the disease, which has been mild to moderate outside of North America.
To be more specific, Phase 6 means that we have evidence of significant and sustained human-to-human transmission of H1N1 in more than 1 WHO region. We knew this had already happened in North America, but were not fully sure about the nature of outbreaks in other regions. For weeks, WHO has kept a close eye on global developments including in countries like Spain, the UK, Japan, Chile and Australia.
After consulting with leading influenza experts, virologists and public health officials, the Director-General decided that the scientific criteria for an influenza pandemic have been met.
Under Phase 6, WHO is tailoring recommendations to Member States based on their specific situation. In general, we are advising governments to monitor the pandemic closely. This will allow us to see if activity levels are going up or down, to detect any possible resistance to antiviral drugs, and to identify any unusual cases or outbreaks that may suggest any potential mutation or reassortment of the virus. They should also monitor the functioning of health care systems to ensure continuity of operations and rapid adjustments.
At the same time, we are asking countries to adapt their existing national pandemic plans to the current situation so that actions taken are sustainable and appropriate. We are encouraging them to focus on caring for H1N1 patients instead of trying to contain the disease. Health systems should prepare to manage more cases in terms of volume and possibly severity. Countries should also obtain sufficient antiviral drugs, equipment, and vaccines when they are ready.
Equally importantly, countries must enhance their public education campaigns to provide accurate and up-to-date information on H1N1. They should talk about not just what the government is doing in this pandemic, but also how people can protect themselves and others.
WHO is in regular contact with China's Ministry of Health to exchange information and discuss recommendations and actions. China has over 100 confirmed cases of H1N1, but no severe cases. Most of the cases are linked to travel from affected areas. There have been small groups of local transmission but these have been contained quickly. No doubt, the number of cases will continue to rise, as will the challenges. As always, WHO stands ready to assist the government in every way possible.
Thank you.