Interim lessons from 2009

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Through the epidemiological week 37/2009, WHO reported more than 300,000 confirmed cases and almost 4,000 deaths produced by pandemic influenza H1N1 in 191 affiliated countries.

During the peak of transmission in 2009, the Southern Cone countries, Chile, Argentina and Southern regions of Brazil, reported the highest number of cases. According to PAHO, through the week 20/2009, 92,773 H1N1 cases were confirmed in Latin America as well as in Caribbean islands and a total of 2,494 deaths had been reported. Brazil accounted for the highest number of deaths and an elevated mortality rate when compared to countries like Chile. Initial containment measures, such as screening symptomatic people in airports and aircrafts and isolating patients who had recently traveled and presented flu-like symptoms, proved ineffective. Different strategies developed in each country showed that the early identification and treatment of high risk patients were responsible for reducing mortality. Although some demographic differences and distinctive clinical outcomes were noticed in different countries, various reports demonstrated that patients with underlying conditions such as asthma, diabetes, cardiac and lung diseases as well as pregnant women were more susceptible to complications. General experience made the benefit of early use of antiviral drugs clear. Based on what had been learnt during the pandemic and in line with WHO directives, Latin America countries are working on a vaccination program targeting the most vulnerable populations. These countries had to deal with a high number of cases earlier than other regions and before the impact on health care systems could be observed. Cooperation between countries requires clear and quick exchange of information in order to control any disease that presents the risk of spreading internationally.