The World Health Organization has just declared the Influenza H1 N1 Virus a pandemic. This is the first pandemic of the 21st Century and in 41 years. This was announced by Dr. Margaret Chan during a Press Conference as the level was raised to number six.

She made her declaration in response to the geographic spread of the virus as there have been no increase in cases that are fatal. She declared that the pandemic is moderate in nature and will not recommend closing borders or other restrictions.

At the same time, the pharmaceutical companies Smith Kline Glaxo PLC and Sanofi-Adventis have been working on a vaccine. WHO reported that on the tenth of June 2009, there were 27,737 cases of H1N1 with 141 deaths. The USA has 13,000 cases with 27 deaths.

Argentina has had an increase in visits to the emergency room which is causing a heavy strain on the health care system in that country. There will be continual monitoring if this story.

http://english.cri.cn/6966/2009/06/11/1321s492517.htm

http://my.nowpublic.com/health/who-declared-h1n1-1st-pandemic-21st-century