A new study shows that molecular similarities exist between the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus and other strains of seasonal H1N1 virus that have been circulating in the population since 1988.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that it has approved a fifth vaccine for protection against the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus.

As of 8 November 2009, worldwide more than 206 countries and overseas territories or communities have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including over 6250 deaths.

Mass gatherings are highly visible events with the potential for serious public health and political consequences if they are not planned and managed carefully.

All 2009 H1N1 guidance is interim and subject to review and revision as more is learned about this novel influenza virus. This guidance may be revised in the event that the 2009 H1N1 pandemic increases in severity compared with the situation in spring/summer 2009.

Having a disability alone may not place someone at higher risk for complications from the H1N1 virus, but other factors may put a person with disabilities at higher risk.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the use of the CSL Limited’s 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine to include children ages 6 months and older. This vaccine was previously approved only for use in adults, ages 18 years and older. “Because children are among those most vulnerable to the 2009 H1N1 virus, having a broader range of children’s vaccines available is an important step in responding to the H1N1 outbreak,” said Margaret A. Hamburg, M.D., commissioner of food and drugs.

This interim guidance has been updated to replace previously posted guidance entitled "Considerations Regarding Novel H1N1 Flu Virus in Obstetric Settings", dated July 6, 2009. This document clarifies clinical considerations related to management of suspected or confirmed maternal infection with 2009 H1N1 influenza virus infection within labor and delivery, postpartum, and newborn care settings in hospitals. A cautious approach to the management of ill mothers and their newborns is still recommended, but several options are provided based on hospital configuration, staffing, and surge capacity.

FDA Commissioner thanks doctors for their efforts and provides information on the safety of H1N1 vaccines.

Although use of influenza antiviral drugs in the United States has increased during the 2009-2010 flu season, not all people recommended for antiviral treatment are getting treated.

As of 1 November 2009, worldwide more than 199 countries and overseas territories/communities have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including over 6000 deaths.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today announced contract awards for up to 120,000 treatment courses of intravenous (IV) antiviral drugs to help treat hospitalized 2009 H1N1 influenza patients.

To date, extensive testing by laboratories in the WHO influenza surveillance network has detected no signs that the H1N1 pandemic virus has mutated to a more virulent form. Currently licensed pandemic vaccines closely match circulating viruses and are expected to confer good protection.

The OIE is closely monitoring the world animal health situation including with regard to infections of all susceptible animals with the pandemic H1N1 2009 virus. Recent identification of the virus in different animal species is no additional cause for alarm.

The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) and the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) remind Iowans that in addition to protecting their families, friends and neighbors from the spread of the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus, it's important to remember to protect family pets from the illness, as well. People who are sick with H1N1 can spread the virus not only to humans, but to some animals.

In April 2009, an outbreak of 2009 H1N1 influenza virus infections were detected in people in North America and then spread around the world.

The composition of the influenza A (H1N1) 2009 monvalent inactivated influenza vaccine varies according to manufacturer, and package inserts should be consulted.

HHS and CDC have released a new brochure for download and printing which provides information and details about H1N1 flu, prevention, symptoms, and what to do if you get sick.

The Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) on Immunization, which advises WHO on policies and strategies for vaccines and immunization, devoted a session of its 27–29 October meeting to pandemic influenza vaccines.

USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratories Presumptive and Confirmatory 2009 Pandemic H1N1 Influenza Test Results for Animal Samples (PDF - 138 KB)