Three months after it was declared pandemic, the new H1N1 virus continues to be the main flu strain circulating worldwide. Most cases have been mild, but there are fears of a more virulent wave of the virus in the months ahead. While vaccines are now hitting the market, demand far exceeds production capacity in the short term, and costs could be prohibitive for some countries.

The EU strategy addresses these issues, as well as the possible economic impact of a more severe epidemic. Stressing close cooperation between EU governments, it presents a range of options for joint action. In particular, it calls for a clear and coherent approach to vaccination and other preventive measures.