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2009 H1N1 Flu: International Situation Update

August 28, 2009, 11:00 AM ET

This situation report provides an update to the international situation as of August 28, 2009. As of August 23, the World Health Organization (WHO) regions have reported over 209,438 laboratory-confirmed cases of 2009 H1N1 influenza virus (2009 H1N1) with at least 2,185 deaths. The laboratory-confirmed cases represent an underestimation of total cases in the world as many countries now focus surveillance and laboratory testing only in persons with severe illness. The 2009 H1N1 influenza virus continues to be the dominant influenza virus in circulation in the world. Decreases in disease due to 2009 H1N1 continue to be reported from South America and parts of Australia. The United Kingdom is also reporting national decreases in disease due to 2009 H1N1. In contrast, disease associated with 2009 H1N1 influenza is continuing to increase in southern Africa and more Africa countries have reported their first cases. In addition, 2009 H1N1 continues to circulate in tropical countries.

Selected Highlights

  • The 2009 H1N1 influenza virus is the predominant influenza virus in circulation worldwide.
  • The epidemiology of the disease caused by the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus in the Southern Hemisphere is very similar to that described in the United States this past spring.
  • There have been no significant changes detected in the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus isolated from persons in the Southern Hemisphere as compared to viruses isolated from persons in the Northern Hemisphere.

International Resources for 2009 H1N1 Information

Health Organizations

World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Offices

Travel and 2009 H1N1 Flu

Human cases of 2009 H1N1 flu virus infection have been identified in the United States and several countries around the world. For information on 2009 H1N1 flu and travel, see the CDC H1N1 Flu and Travel website.

Reports and Publications

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