Review Article A Review of Influenza

In March 2009, Mexico reported a large outbreak of influenza with multiple deaths. The first case of novel swine-origin influenza A (H1N1) virus (S-OIV) was later identified on April 15, 2009 in the United States. Since the World Health Organization declared a pandemic of S-0IV on June 11, 2009, the virus has continued to spread rapidly. At that time, about 70 countries had reported cases of S-OIV infection, and there were ongoing outbreaks in multiple parts of the world. At present, this number has nearly doubled. Thailand reported the first case of S-OIV infection on May 12, 2009. In responding to the pandemic, Thailand is committed to control the spread of S-OIV infection and to reduce the morbidity and mortality. This article provides background knowledge, recent updates, and practical aspects of influenza for clinicians who may be involved in patients who develop illnesses compatible with S-0IV infection. (J Infect Di