On June 11, 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) raised the worldwide pandemic alert level to Phase 6. This move is in response to the ongoing global spread of the novel influenza A (H1N1) virus. Phase 6 means that the virus is spreading across the globe. However, the phase does not predict the severity of the virus.

The WHO designation of a pandemic alert Phase 6 reflects the fact that there are ongoing community level outbreaks in multiple parts of world. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the disease continues to be a mild one for the most part. Health Officials are not seeing significant changes in the virus samples from various countries.

The CDC is preparing for the possibility that the virus may return in the fall; historically, pandemics have had a second “wave” of illness. The CDC is monitoring the virus to learn more about its impact on human health.

The Mohave County Department of Public Health continues to participate in conference calls with the CDC. Our Emergency Response Team will continue to meet to plan for a possible return of H1N1 in the fall.

According to the CDC, the U.S. Government is working to manufacture a novel H1N1 vaccine. CDC has isolated the new H1N1 virus, made a candidate vaccine virus that can be used to create vaccine, and has provided this virus to industry so they can begin scaling up for production of a vaccine, if necessary.

The decision to produce an H1N1 vaccine will be made by the federal government based on what is learned about the need for a vaccine (severity of illness, how the outbreak evolves in the coming months, and what populations may be most at risk). The goal is to have vaccine ready, if needed.

Things you can do to prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.   Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.  
• If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your sleeve - not your hand. 
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze.  If you aren't able to wash your hands, alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.  
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.  Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you get sick with influenza, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

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