Please note there is new information almost daily. For the most current and accurate information, visit http://www.pandemicflu.gov, and look under the heading "Monitoring Outbreaks". The USGS site is very helpful in tracking current wildlife outbreaks and news stories. The WHO site gives the most current and accurate lab confirmed human case and human death totals.

Current human death rate from the H5N1 strain is 60.1% (261 cases, 157 deaths).  The three newest cases are from Egypt and have been discussed thoroughly in the media. All three cases are members of an extended family and all have since died. The cases had known exposure to ill ducks. The most recent death occurred 12/27/06. Remaining healthy family members have been kept under observation for any signs or symptoms of illness.

In what could be considered a risky move, the government is asking for public opinion on the current vaccine prioritization schedule. Results of surveys should be available early 2007. For those that are interested in learning more about the prioritization, the following web address may be helpful: http://www.pandemicflu.gov/vaccine/index.html#vprioritization

WHO Laboratory Confirmed H5N1 Human Cases As of 12/27/06

Total number of cases includes number of deaths.
WHO reports only laboratory-confirmed cases.

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