GENEVA - The H1N1 pandemic is not yet over, although its most intense activity has passed in many parts of the world, the World Health Organization said yesterday after a review of the flu outbreak by independent experts.

The WHO emergency committee said it remained critical for countries to maintain vigilance concerning the pandemic, including necessary public health measures, WHO Director-General Margaret Chan said in a statement.

Chan said pandemic flu activity was expected to continue, and the committee would meet again by mid-July to review the status of the outbreak once more data from the winter influenza season in the southern hemisphere was available.

Chan's decision means the outbreak, known as swine flu, remains at the top level on the WHO's pandemic scale, phase 6, where it has been since last June.

WHO experts say the virus remains a threat to some vulnerable people, notably pregnant women, young children and those with respiratory problems, and such groups would continue to need vaccinations. - Reuters

On the latest episode of "Sarra Sounds Off," Newsday's Gregg Sarra talks with Dunia Sibomana-Rodriguez about winning a 3rd state title and possibly competing in the Olympics in 2028, plus Jared Valluzzi has the plays of the week. Credit: Newsday/Steve Pfost

Sarra Sounds Off, Ep. 17: Olympics a possibility for Long Beach wrestler? On the latest episode of "Sarra Sounds Off," Newsday's Gregg Sarra talks with Long Beach wrestler Dunia Sibomana-Rodriguez about pursuing a third state title and possibly competing in the Olympics in 2028, plus Jared Valluzzi has the plays of the week.

On the latest episode of "Sarra Sounds Off," Newsday's Gregg Sarra talks with Dunia Sibomana-Rodriguez about winning a 3rd state title and possibly competing in the Olympics in 2028, plus Jared Valluzzi has the plays of the week. Credit: Newsday/Steve Pfost

Sarra Sounds Off, Ep. 17: Olympics a possibility for Long Beach wrestler? On the latest episode of "Sarra Sounds Off," Newsday's Gregg Sarra talks with Long Beach wrestler Dunia Sibomana-Rodriguez about pursuing a third state title and possibly competing in the Olympics in 2028, plus Jared Valluzzi has the plays of the week.

SUBSCRIBE

Unlimited Digital AccessOnly 25¢for 6 months

ACT NOWSALE ENDS SOON | CANCEL ANYTIME