Articles: pandemics.
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We review important aspects of the pandemic influenza A (H1N1) at the time of declaring the end of the contingency in Mexico. The pre-established surveillance system had to be modified during the course of the epidemic. From the first epidemic weeks, viral monitoring recorded the displacement of other pathogens by the pandemic virus. ⋯ The difficulties of surging services for seriously ill patients are described. Preventive measures such as the use of masks and hand hygiene are reviewed, as well as the vaccination drive and the difficulties for its application in health personnel. The review concludes with the need to learn the teachings of the pandemic, describing the necessary elements to prepare against the next one.
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In light of the 2009 influenza pandemic and potential future pandemics, Maria Van Kerkhove and colleagues anticipate six public health challenges and the data needed to support sound public health decision making.