WHO cautions on a winter surge in flu cases

KATHMANDU, Nepal: Although Pandemic (H1N1) is spreading faster than any other flu in the past, prompt use of public health measures combined with a sound strategy for case management can control and mitigate the impact on health services and economy.

"WHO continues to closely monitor the geographical spread of Pandemic (H1N1) 2009. Member States will need to continue updating their plans accordingly. 

"It is important to allocate appropriate resources and maintain the overall pandemic preparedness", said Dr Samlee Plianbangchang, WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia.

"A winter surge is a real possibility in the South-East Asia Region. WHO is closely monitoring the virus for genetic mutation and drug resistance", he added. Dr Plianbangchang was speaking to journalists at WHO's South-East Asia Regional Committee meeting in Kathmandu.

The importance of public health measures such as frequent hand-washing, respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette, and social distancing measures such as voluntary isolation for slowing down the surge, need to be emphasized to the public. In general, identifying sick students and keeping them at home is mo re beneficial than school closures. Health systems and hospitals in Member States need to remain prepared for a surge of severe cases requiring active case management with antiviral and other supportive measures.

WHO is actively providing assistance for increasing vaccine production capacity in South-East Asia. The organization has transferred technology and development funds to three major vaccine manufacturers in the Region. These manufacturers will have a collective capacity of about 220 million doses annually, with a surge capacity for another 200 million doses over one year.

However, the pandemic flu vaccine may not be available in time for the winter surge. "Vaccine manufacturing capacity is finite. We have to ensure rational distribution of this vaccine when available" said Dr Plianbangchang.

WHO will continue to guide countries in prioritizing vulnerable groups for vaccination.

India Post News Service