By: Gillian Lindsay-Nanton
The majority of Swine flu (H1N1 virus ) cases are still occurring in younger people, with the median age between 12 to 17 years, the United Nations World Health Organization, reported on July 24th. This information is based on data from Canada, Japan, UK and the U.S.
The WHO noted in its statement that, this pattern for Swine flu differs from seasonal influenza where fatal diseases occurs most often in the elderly, that is, 65 years and older.
However, the organization noted that the full picture of the pandemic’s epidemiology is not fully clear, as it remains relatively early in its development.
Similarly, the risk factors for serious pandemic diseases are not known definitively, but cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, diabetes and cancer currently are considered risk factors for serious pandemics like swine flu.
A recent report suggest obesity and pregnant women are at higher risk for more severe diseases, like swine flu.
Meanwhile, WHO noted in its statement that, the development of new candidate vaccine viruses is continuing to improve yields.
Given that new yield information is being awaited, it is not clear what pandemic vaccine supply levels are, at the present time. As well, soon-to-be initiated vaccine clinical trials will provide other important information, WHO indicated. Such trials will give a better idea of the number of doses required for a person to be immunized, said the statement.
According to manufacturers’ time lines, vaccines are expected to be ready around September.
