The arrival of the novel H1N1 influenza “swine flu” outbreak in late April prompted a rapid, intensive and strategic response from California Department of Public Health (CDPH), including the Immunization Branch. Staff at CDPH and in local health departments worked long hours to reduce the impact of the outbreak and to keep the public informed.

In a message from CDPH Director Dr Mark Horton to CDPH staff, he extended his “appreciation to staff across the department who continue to work tirelessly to respond to this outbreak.”

The most current information on the H1N1 influenza outbreak is www.cdph.ca.gov. The CDPH website includes the latest guidance, a map showing cases in California, Twitter messages from Dr. Horton and more.

Epidemiologic and laboratory influenza surveillance will continue throughout the summer and beyond. The Immunization Branch will keep providers and the public informed about whether a swine flu vaccine will become available. In the meantime, seasonal influenza immunization will proceed for the 2008-09 ‘’flu season” beginning this fall.