Based on assessment of all available information and following several expert consultations, I have decided to raise the current level of influenza pandemic alert from phase 4 to phase 5.

Pandemic influenza is by nature an international issue; it requires an international solution.

All countries should immediately now activate their pandemic preparedness plans. Countries should remain on high alert for unusual outbreaks of influenza-like illness and severe pneumonia.

For the first time in history we can track the evolution of a pandemic in real time. Influenza viruses are notorious for their rapid mutation and unpredictable behaviour.

Assessment should be based on how much that ground can raise.

When you raise the alert level, you've got to do it in a way that you're explaining and laying out as much as you can about why it is that you're doing it, what you hope to achieve from it, ... Late Edition.