Swine flu outbreak declared ‘public health emergency’

Mexico reports 1,300 suspected cases, including as many as 81 deaths, and takes steps to quarantine and forcibly treat patients. The U.S. confirms 11 cases, with eight more suspected.
By Tracy Wilkinson and Thomas H. Maugh II
April 26, 2009

Reporting from Los Angeles and Mexico City — International officials Saturday declared the swine flu outbreak in Mexico and the U.S. a “public health emergency” as new cases were reported on both sides of the border and fears grew of a possible global epidemic.

The Mexican government indicated that the outbreak was more severe than originally acknowledged, announcing that more than 1,300 people are believed to have been infected. The virus, which the World Health Organization’s top official said had “pandemic potential,” is now suspected in the deaths of 81 Mexicans, Health Secretary Jose Angel Cordova said.