Undersecretary of Health: Human influenza is less serious that first thought

SANTIAGO.- Undersecretary of Health Jeannette Vega has said that effects of the human influenza virus are less serious than was previously thought, but has not ruled out the possibility that the illness will remain present in the world for quite a while.

"It seems that the illness is very contagious, but less serious than what had been originally thought. Although there are cases that lead to respiratory complications, such incidences are rare", the authority stated during an interview with Radio Cooperativa.

Vega added that the epidemic will not be as severe as had been expected, and said that it "could be like having an additional flu epidemic". The minister indicated that if this were to occur, the strain would be included in the vaccination for next year.

Vega explained that "what apparently may have happened in Mexico is that the epidemic could have begun much earlier. In fact, they believe that it began around January, so there are many more cases that have not been diagnosed than what have been reported".

The undersecretary is currently in Switzerland analyzing the scenario. Vega's agenda includes meetings with those in charge of managing the outbreak and will also participate in the World Health Assembly next week.