Just more than a year ago, we were scrambling to make sure that our kids were vaccinated against the H1N1 flu. We heard about children and pregnant women dying from this illness and how it stuck many young people. Long lines for scarce shots had people in a panic.
But is H1N1 still a threat? Well, yes and no. Fortunately, the pandemic was much less severe than was predicted. Many people are placing blame for panic on the World Health Organization (WHO) and claiming that it was all an unnecessary scare. Many countries have stockpiles of unused H1N1 vaccines that will go to waste.
WHO has declared us to be in a post pandemic state. This means that while there may still be large outbreaks of H1N1, the global threat that was predicted is no longer a threat.
On the other hand, I think we are all pretty lucky that H1N1 has not mutated to a deadlier or more viral form as was feared. That was a real possibility, and it could still happen. H1N1 will be with us as part of each new flu season now. It is here to stay. Health authorities need to keep on top of H1N1.
People who are at risk from complications from this flu, such as pregnant women need to make sure that they are vaccinated, regardless of a new strain developing. In fact, in some countries, H1N1 is still circulating, along with H3N2 and influenza B flu.
So how many people have died from H1N1 in confirmed cases? The number is 18,450, much less than in previous pandemics in which millions were killed.
The CDC continues to recommend flu vaccination for anyone aged 6 months and older. Ample supplies of vaccine are expected to be available, so take advantage of this to protect yourself and your family.