The WHO rates new influenza (flu) pandemics into phases. Phase 6, indicates that a new flu virus has emerged, it spreads easily from one human to another, the disease is found in many countries, and that a global pandemic is underway. It does NOT indicate that the disease is more deadly. A phase 6 designation is an indication to world leaders to implement strategies that reduce the spread of disease and impact on society even if they have not yet identified any cases in their own countries. Because Marin County is already responding to local cases of H1N1 (swine) flu, the change in phase does not affect our response. The change will primarily activate a response in countries who have not already begun preparing or responding to the situation. Marin County will continue to monitor the situation, perform laboratory tests, provide recommendations to the public, schools, and clinicians, and implement measures to protect the public's health.