The WHO Pandemic Alert level remains at Phase 5.
Influenza A (H1N1) Cases and Deaths by Country (as of 8 AM PST, May 27th) 
*Lab confirmed cases and deaths have been provided by the WHO’s Influenza A (H1N1) – Update #40.
Local/National News
- On May 26th, the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) did not revise the country’s confirmed influenza A (H1N1) case total. PHAC releases revised case totals on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
International News
- Health officials in Australia stated Tuesday that the number of confirmed novel H1N1 cases has risen to 44. That number is double what was reported by the WHO on Monday. Flu experts are watching Australia closely, because the novel flu outbreak comes as the country's seasonal influenza cycle is starting. Some of the newly confirmed patients were on a cruise ship that asked passengers to self-isolate after two boys on the ship tested positive for the virus. The Australian
- Recently, Kathleen Sebelius, U.S. Health and Human Services secretary, launched a U.S. public service ad campaign aimed at teaching families and children how to protect themselves from the novel H1N1 virus. The campaign, featuring "Sesame Street" characters, received additional support from the Sesame Street educational workshop and the Ad Council. The spots were distributed nationwide and will be aired during time donated by television stations. HHS press release
- The pace of novel H1N1 influenza is tapering off in most parts of the United States, except for around New York City and in New England, Anne Schuchat, MD, of the U.S. CDC said at a press briefing yesterday. Seasonal influenza strains have also receded, and the novel flu virus is the country's predominant circulating flu strain. CDC Press Transcript
- The U.S. CDC is transitioning to a new focus of observing if the virus changes in the southern hemisphere, preparing for another possible wave of novel flu illness in the fall, and working to develop a vaccine. CDC Press Transcript
Today’s Key Question
What are the current recommendations regarding the use of facemasks and respirators for non-ill persons?
The U.S. CDC recently revised their Interim Recommendations for Facemask and Respirator Use for Home, Community, and Occupational Settings for Non-Ill Persons to Prevent Infection with Novel H1N1 1 2. The following table breaks down the recommendations into clear groupings. 
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