Flu edging closer to level 5 on WHO scale

As part of the EU’s response to the swine flu threat health officials have met representatives of the pharmaceutical industry to discuss stocks of anti-viral drugs.

Meanwhile the World Health Organisation admits the case contracted internally in Spain is a worrying development.

Top WHO official Dr Keiji Fukuda said: “As the outbreak evolves we are moving closer to Phase 5. So we are moving closer to that but I don’t think we are quite there yet. Phase 5 is a significant milestone in preparations for countries and in warnings.”

Possible restrictions on travel to Mexico will be discussed at a special meeting of the EU’s Health Council in Brussels on Thursday. It is thought France is in favour of some kind of ban.

Mexico says there is no need for such a measure and opinion within EU governments is divided.

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tags: WHO