WHO: Swine Flu subsides, but remain on-guard

Officials with the Department of Public Health and Social Services gathered at Adelup this morning to discuss the World Health Organization's announcement that H1N1influenza virus has moved into the post-pandemic period.

August 13, 2010Updated: August 13, 2010
KUAM NewsBy KUAM News

by Breanna Lai, for KUAM News

Guam - Officials with the Department of Public Health and Social Services gathered at Adelup this morning to discuss the World Health Organization's announcement that H1N1influenza virus has moved into the post-pandemic period. Yet the WHO warns localized outbreaks of various magnitudes are likely to continue. 

Public Health Medical Director Dr. Annakutty Mathew said, "Even though the pandemic status is lifted, H1N1 will continue to circulate in the world and will continue to cause outbreaks, as well as individual cases.  It's always good to practice prudent prevention measures."

Josie O' Mallan is the acting chief of Public Health and recommends that residents continue to get immunized, saying, "H1N1 vaccine is still available up until September when the expiration will end, however the H1N1 strain will be incorporated into the seasonal flu vaccine, which we are entering within the next few months."

Other things you can do to steer clear from catching H1N1 virus are covering your cough, staying home if you are sick, and frequently washing your hands.