The World Health Organization (WHO) raised the Pandemic Alert Level to Phase 6 because the new influenza virus - H1N1 (swine flu) – has been found in more places around the world. Pandemic influenza, or pandemic flu, is a worldwide outbreak of a new flu virus for which there is little or no immunity (protection) in the human population. Phase 6 indicates that the new flu virus is spreading easily from one person to another, is found in many countries, and that a global pandemic is underway. According to the WHO, that now describes the H1N1 flu most accurately.

Pandemic means global, and does not indicate the severity or mildness of the virus. The evidence to date overwhelming shows that the virus is mild in most cases. Since this is a new flu virus for which the population has little or no immunity, scientists and health professionals are concerned that as it passes through populations, it could mutate (change) to become more serious and return with increased force in the fall/winter influenza season.

Because Santa Clara County is already responding to local cases of H1N1 (swine) flu, the change to Phase 6 does not affect our response. The Santa Clara County Public Health Department will continue to work with other local, state and federal agencies, monitor the situation, perform laboratory tests, provide recommendations to the public, schools, and clinicians, and implement any needed measures to protect the public's health.

Individuals also need to take action to be better prepared. It is important to stay informed about H1N1 and keep up-to-date by listening to radio and television, and reading news stories. For more information about Pandemic influenza, click here.

This site provides the following information (click on the items below to go to that section):

What You Need to Know
Preparation and general information for individuals and families, including information on H1N1 and how to limit the spread of flu.

For Partners
Preparation and general information for schools, employers, community and faith-based organizations, healthcare providers and local governments.

News Room
The latest updates, travel information and past media releases

Pandemic Flu Plan for Santa Clara County
Outlines the Public Health Department's preparations and response activities to pandemic flu and influenza care centers.

Questions or comments can be directed to PanFlu@hhs.sccgov.org