H1N1 Statement by Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kiran Kumar

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the end of the H1N1 flu pandemic.

This 10 August 2010 decision was prompted by advice from members of the International Health Regulations Emergency Committee who found that the new H1N1 virus has largely run its course.

Committee members based their assessment on the global situation, as well as on reports from several countries that are now encountering influenza.

As WHO Director-General Dr. Margaret Chan noted, “Pandemics are unpredictable and we were fortunate that the H1N1 virus did not mutate, but responded well to the available vaccine and treatments.”

In the Cayman Islands, the response to the H1N1 pandemic conformed to global best practices. We developed pro-active testing and treatment protocols; we raised awareness through an active public education campaign and stockpiled treatment drugs.

Our first H1N1 case was confirmed on 29 May 2009. In total we had 130 confirmed cases, the last one being reported in February 2010. Unfortunately we did have one death linked to H1N1.

And while we are all relieved that the pandemic is over, we will remain vigilant as we anticipate seeing H1N1 cases in the coming flu season.

We will continue to offer a seasonal flu vaccination programme. Based on previous high demand for flu vaccinations, we have already ordered 4,000 doses of the seasonal flu vaccine. These are scheduled to arrive in October and will also protect against the H1N1 2009 Influenza virus.

In addition, we will persist with raising public awareness on flu prevention.