WHO declares swine flu outbreak "public health emergency"

Source: Xinhua | 04-26-2009 08:13

GENEVA, April 25 (Xinhua) -- The World Health Organization (WHO)on Saturday declared the swine flu outbreak in Mexico and the United States a "public health emergency of international concern" and urged countries to be alert.

A woman wears a mask to prevent from being infected by the swine flu virus in the Mexico City, capital of Mexico, April 25, 2009. The World Health Organization (WHO) on Saturday declared the swine flu outbreak in Mexico and the United States a "public health emergency of  international concern" and urged countries to be alert.  (Xinhua Photo)

Based on the advice of a WHO emergency committee, Director-general Margaret Chan "has determined that the current events constitute a public health emergency of international concern," the UN agency said in a statement.

The WHO chief is recommending, on the advice of the committee, that all countries intensify surveillance for unusual outbreaks ofinfluenza-like illness and severe pneumonia, the statement added.

However, more information is needed before a decision could be made concerning the appropriateness of the current "phase 3" alert level of a pandemic risk, according to the advice of the committee, which is composed of international experts in a variety of disciplines.