Highlights

Current level of influenza pandemic alert raised from phase 4 to 5
29 April 2009 -- Based on assessment of all available information and following several expert consultations, Dr Margaret Chan, WHO's Director-General raised the current level of influenza pandemic alert from phase 4 to 5. She stated that all countries should immediately activate their pandemic preparedness plans. At this stage, effective and essential measures include heightened surveillance, early detection and treatment of cases, and infection control in all health facilities.
Statement by WHO Director-General
Full coverage of swine influenza

SITUATION UPDATES Including global number of laboratory confirmed cases 29 April 2009 Swine influenza - update 5 28 April 2009 Swine influenza - update 4 Previous situation updates FOR THE MEDIA Press briefings Audio and transcripts of the virtual press briefings GENERAL INFORMATION Frequently asked questions

GUIDANCE Technical guidance for professionals is being released daily. Latest additions: Interim WHO guidance for the surveillance of human infection with swine influenza A(H1N1) virus 29 April 2009 Protocol for antiviral susceptibility testing by pyrosequencing 29 April 2009 Infection prevention and control in health care in providing care for confirmed or suspected A(H1N1) swine influenza patients 29 April 2009 More guidance documents

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