Oral

In April 2009, a novel strain of influenza A was identified in Mexico and North America, and the first U.S. cases were detected later that same month. Since then, the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus has spread from person-to-person, resulting in the first influenza pandemic since 1968-69. Since the spring, millions of people have been infected and thousands of deaths have resulted worldwide. In contrast to seasonal influenza which disproportionately affects people older than 65 years of age, 2009 H1N1 influenza has caused greater disease burden in people younger than 25 years of age. The emergence of this novel virus has required a prompt, coordinated, and robust response from all levels of government and the private sector. At the Federal level, HHS and CDC have taken measures to develop strategies and support preparedness and response activities based on four pillars: 1) Epidemiology & Surveillance, 2) Vaccine, 3) Community Measures, and 4) Communications. As part of this response, CDC’s primary objectives have been to 1) reduce illness and death associated with 2009 H1N1 influenza, 2) minimize the impact to society, and 3) place the greatest amount of effort into activities that will ultimately have the greatest public health impact. During this session, representatives from CDC’s H1N1 task forces will review the current situation and discuss some of the observed lessons from the current pandemic.

Session Objectives: Discuss common challenges and capability gaps revealed by the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic. Describe the strategies employed to both respond to 2009 H1N1 influenza and mitigate the impact of recommended response measures. Identify key lessons and future opportunities to improve public health readiness and response.