Pandemic Flu

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: Cameroon
Delegate Name: Kevan Farrell
School: Mattawan High School

With the recent outbreak of the H1N1 virus in Mexico in 2009, it has spread throughout the world at a very rapid rate. The potentially deadly virus has had over 150,000 confirmed cases in 210 countries as of August 2009. If the World Health Organization does not take action to suppress the spread or prepare countries for future outbreaks, then we could face a widespread outbreak of a potentially harmful disease.

The Republic of Cameroon believes that the World Health Organization should aid us in preventing the outbreak of infectious diseases, due to the poor health conditions in our country. Our country has a fairly high infant mortality rate of 63.34 death for every 1000 births, we also have a high death rate of 12.2 deaths per 1000 people. Also, 40.9 percent of our population are age 14 and younger, so as you can see, the outbreak of a highly divesting disease could have a severe impact on our population. With that being said, we feel that it is necessary for the UN and the Who to provide us with funds in which we can invest in flu and infectious virus prevention methods and in vaccination methods. We feel that we should be in power to foresee what methods we pursue or invest in because we want to make sure all of our citizens have access to vaccines and other prevention methods. We also feel we should be informed in new technologies or methods in early detection so we can assess an outbreak in a more responsive manner.

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: Canada
Delegate Name: Chelsea DeBoer
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The pandemic flu, a common and easily communicable disease of the lungs, infects millions of people worldwide each year. Although it is a virus, new strands develop unpredictably each year, so humans that may have had the illness in previous years no longer will have immunity to the diseases. When no vaccines or medications are available, the spread of influenza is rampant, causing thousands of deaths each year. When a certain strand spreads around the world, this is referred to as an influenza pandemic. Currently, the world is experiencing the pandemic of the H1N1 virus, sometimes referred to as “swine flu” which originated in Mexico this year. Already, H1N1 has affected thousands in public places such as schools and other work environments where breeding of the virus happens easily. In order to halt the spread of H1N1, measures must be taken to treat those who acquire the disease and methods for the prevention of the disease must be promoted.

Canada, due to their frequent contact with people of other countries, has experienced the outbreak of various flu pandemics in the past as well as the current outbreak of the H1N1 virus. Since the government provides universal health care to all citizens of the nation, the Canadian government has been responsible for distributing the newly developed H1N1 vaccine. According to the Canadian Pandemic Influenza Plan for the Health Sector, prevention and preparedness to overcome the influenza pandemic depend on surveillance and laboratory preparedness, vaccines, antivirals, public health measures (such as public education, social distancing, and isolation and quarantine), health services, communications and emergency preparedness and coordination. In order to combat the pandemic flu and protect people worldwide from contracting the disease, measures like those listed previously must be strongly encouraged by WHO to be implemented in all nations.

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: China
Delegate Name: Jeffrey Stehlin
School: Royal Oak High School

Following the recent spread of the new H1N1 flu virus, also known as swine flu, pandemic flu is once again at the forefront of international discussion and debate. The flu’s potential to affect such a large portion of the world’s population stresses the need for a solution or vaccination process to be quickly achieved. While vaccines have been created throughout the international community the distribution of these vaccinations has been slow and costly, and many countries have become dependent upon this distribution, unable to create such a vaccination or lacking the technology and resources to do so themselves. The flu virus is quickly spreading to countries worldwide, and while reported cases of the H1N1 virus have only been recorded in a limited number of countries it is only a matter of time until cases occur more frequently throughout a larger demographic – unless progressive, positive steps are taken.

Recently, China developed a vaccine for the H1N1 virus and has the necessary technology to modify the vaccine if a strain mutation were to occur. However, pressures from the international community and the World Health Organization have taken away emphasis from the need to cure internal flu problems. Until the flu pandemic is solved internally, China feels that little external aid will be distributed, finding that without a healthy, functional population little can be done to help other suffering people. However, international aid will remain a priority and responsibility to the Chinese government and a goal that will be constantly worked towards in partnership with internal relief.

China is calling upon the internationally community to take action towards combating the increasing spread of the flu virus, establishing education, awareness, and a fiscally appropriate vaccination as its priorities. China has taken steps towards creating a general education regarding the spread, instilling within its younger generations the knowledge and drive necessary to prevent further flu pandemics from occurring. This general education could be applied to countries worldwide, creating awareness and further action regarding the flu pandemic. China believes that awareness is a key step towards ending the current H1N1 pandemic and for preventing future pandemics from occurring. China sincerely hopes that this general education can occur quickly and that a vaccine can be distributed as a communal effort from the international community.

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: Côte d’Ivoire
Delegate Name: Samantha Floen
School: Royal Oak High School

The world could very well be on the verge of an epidemic unlike anything we have seen in ages. H1N1, also known as the Swine flu, threatens people of every nation around the world. The disease, which originated in Mexico, has now spread around the world. So far worldwide more than 7,500 people have died of the swine flu. With the approaching flu season, it is expected that thousands more could be added to that number. In Africa, we have an extra reason to fear this epidemic. A reason that could make this flu even more lethal than it already has the potential to be.

This extra piece is HIV/AIDS. These diseases destroy the body’s immune system and weaken its ability to fight off illness. In Côte d’Ivoire alone there are approximately 480,000 people living with HIV/AIDS. These people are at an even greater risk from the flu outbreak. We understand that this is an issue for the entire international community, but we want the body to recognize the critical situation that African nations have to deal with. We need to develop away to prevent the spread of this disease by getting vaccines to as many people as possible as well as treating those who do contract the virus to the best of our ability. It is going to take the efforts of every one in the international community to hold of this virus. If we cooperate we can save hundreds, possibly thousands of lives. This is our future on the line.

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: France
Delegate Name: Rebecca Michelson
School: Roeper School

In early 2009 outbreaks of the H1N1 virus in Mexico, known as the ‘swine flu’ scared the world population, and created fear for the next season’s pandemic flu. Now, in late 2009 that fear has turned into a worldwide panic involving thousands of cases of this deadly virus. World Health Organization (WHO) Director general Margaret Chan declared a “public health emergency of international concern”. President Obama of the United States has announced a national emergency as an effect of the H1N1. Symptoms of the virus including but not limited to fever, cough, sore throat, and other non-urgent symptoms make the H1N1 flu is the most contagious and rapid spreading in the last 30 years. The United States Center for Disease Control (CDC) has developed a vaccine to provide immunity for high-risk patients, specifically young children and pregnant women. Because of the rate of infection worldwide, the WHO has decided to stop focusing attention on long-term efforts toward flu prevention, and instead have refocused time and energy into the distribution of vaccines and these other prevention methods. The US, members of the EU, and other nations are preparing to enter their prime flu seasons, and have therefore ordered millions of doses of this vaccine. The primary producers of the Tamaflu and Relenza, Roche and GlaxoSmithKline, are back-ordered on dosage production for months. However, the widespread panic the H1N1 has created is just at its beginning stages.

The nation of France has been severely affected by the H1N1 virus. As of October 28th there have been 1,125 cases reported including 32 deaths. Vaccination is France’s number one priority. The government wishes to give a vaccine to the entire population of 65 million inhabitants immediately upon the reception of those doses. France has also purchased several million protective masks for those who do not have access to the vaccine. A website has been launched by the Ministry of Health to educate the public about the disease itself, and the necessity of vaccinations. Schools across the country have been closed at the first sign of infection. France has briefly cut off airline travel to and from Mexico to stop extraneous outbreaks of the flu. The nation of France fully backs the UN and, more specifically, the WHO’s efforts to control the rapid spreading of the H1N1 flu. France supports GlaxoSmithKline and Roche in their production of both the Tamaflu and Relenza.

The EU has made efforts region-wide to stop the spread of the virus. The United Kingdom has been hit the most severely, having reported over 13,000 cases and 130 deaths. France is working with the UK, along with other nations who have been hit by H1N1 including Spain, Germany, Portugal, and Norway, who have each identified over 1,000 cases of the virus. The Republic of France is willing to work with other nations, the WHO, and the UN to prevent and contain the H1N1 virus.

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: Germany
Delegate Name: Allison Hastings
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

The current outbreak of the H1N1 virus has greatly affected the people of Germany and most of the world. The first German death due to this pandemic was in late September; however, this person was at high risk to disease. More than 30,000 cases of H1N1 have been confirmed, and there are six deaths due to this virus. A new wave of outbreaks has begun with over 3,000 new cases a week this October. Although Germany has maintained a low death rate from the H1N1 virus, this flu pandemic affects Germany greatly. The government of Germany has made vaccinations available to the public in attempts to control the spread of the virus. Medical workers, the chronically ill, pregnant women and children as well as politicians were the first to receive the vaccine. Currently 50 million doses have been made available to the general public; however, there are doubts of the safety of some of the components of the vaccine. The long-term results of any new vaccine cannot be predicted only a few months after its release. The citizens of Germany are unsure of the adjuvants present in the H1N1 vaccine. Adjuvants decrease the amount of vaccine needed and increase the body’s acceptance of the vaccine. Continuation of research on the side effects of the H1N1 virus and the vaccines need to occur. Germany would like to see the improvements to the current vaccination as studies progress, and the hasty spread of the vaccination to all nations currently battling the virus and those nearby. The H1N1 virus cannot be ignored; all countries, even those not currently infected, need to be prepared for an out brake.

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: Greece
Delegate Name: Matthew Runk
School: Mattawan High School

Greece informed WHO and Europe on May 20th 2009 of its first scientifically confirmed case of the Pandemic Flu. This count has grown to 165 confirmed cases on July 8th. The spread of disease has created a valid issue to be considered by the governments of Europe. 60% of people who have contracted the virus across the continent had traveled to infected areas in the Americas. The widespread spread and dynamic of the Pandemic Flu has countries around the globe searching for effective methods of containment and administering treatment.

Health Minister Dimitris Avramopoulos announced in January that the Prime Minister decided to enact a country wide vaccination for our 11 million citizens and any residents in the country. 24 million vaccinations will be created for this action. Prime Minister Yeoryios Papandreou advises all residents to take two vaccines to ensure the proper immune strength against the virus. The Prime Minister stresses that the death rates for this virus are minuscule and that the residents of Greece should continue their lives as normal. Greece is a member of the European Union, and North Atlantic Trade Organization. Other members of these organizations with strong medical systems and the ability to distribute the vaccinations would be strong supporters of our solutions. We would propose to create a similar solution to our own, with a strong detection system installed in nations that may not have the infrastructure to facilitate such a widespread reaction. We would be opposed to any solutions that involved large social chaos or public fear and anxiety. This situation is one that should be addressed calmly and quickly as to preserve the peace of the nation.

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: Guatemala
Delegate Name: Madeline Moore
School: Royal Oak High School

The eruption of the H1N1 influenza has brought the issue of pandemic flu to the top of the world’s list of concerns. Known as “swine flu,” the disease has invaded over 70 countries and could easily spread to the rest of the world. The World Health Organization is desperately needed to isolate and eliminate said pandemic flu. In addition, the willingness to cooperate is essential of every nation to halt the H1N1 flu in its tracks.

The Republic of Guatemala, being one of the nations affected by the pandemic, recognizes the need to eliminate all traces of the H1N1 influenza as swiftly as possible. On June 9, 2009, the Guatemalan Ministry of Health proclaimed that a total of 60 individual cases have been confirmed across the country. Clearly, the capability of this flu to spread is outstanding, which is why the distribution of vaccines is extremely important. Of the National Influenza Centers that have been placed throughout the world, not one has been established in Guatemala. In addition, the Republic of Guatemala experiences a mass Immigration of workers to Mexico as well as mobile refugees within its borders, which may add to the spread of the influenza.

Being among the 10 poorest Latin American nations, Guatemala is lacking in a supply of safe drinking water and sterile living conditions. These undesirable conditions can only increase transmission of the pandemic flu. Guatemala’s economy is mainly agricultural-based, and in order to improve living conditions for its people, Guatemala is seeking to stabilize its economy. To do this, the Republic is requesting financial aid to create industry and additional jobs which will lead to economic stimulation. With a stable economy, Guatemala will be able to improve its living conditions, and thus prevent the spreading of a variety of diseases, including H1N1. This concept can and should be applied to all developing countries. It is the responsibility of wealthier nations to aid less fortunate nations, for this is the only method by which the pandemic can be eradicated. It is in the world’s best interest to be sure that each country is stable enough to stay healthy.

The Republic of Guatemala appreciates the effort made by its fellow countries as well as the WHO to stop the rampaging H1N1 influenza. The Republic also wishes for all developing countries to be recognized as candidates for financial aid. It is essential for the pandemic to be eliminated in every country. Because of this, the world cannot afford to overlook any nation.

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: Iraq
Delegate Name: Keni Thomas
School: Flint Northern High School

Iraq ia alarmed about the pandemic flu. Iraq identified their first case on January 30, 2006, a fifthteen year old girl died from the H1N1. The girl's uncle died ten day's later from the H1N1. The health authorities of Iraq have began killing domestic birds. Iraq and one of their neighbors Turkey has at least 21 cases of deadly viruses that has been detected earlier this year. By August 2, health ministry officials had reported over 55 cases in the country. Local media sources quoted officials as saying that a majority of the cases were within the foreign, multi-national forces in the country and that only 20 of the cases are Iraqis. The latest reported cases were 10 students who had returned from the United States. The officials think that the H1N1 is coming from the U.S. and they want to stop having Americans coming over to see if that theory is write.

Iraq is hoping the World Health Organization (WHO) can help them. The WHO can help by going to the U.S. and getting the cure from them. The WHO can also supply doctors to treat the sick people so they won’t just die without trying.

Recently Iraq has closed over 2,000 schools due to the pandemic flu. A few days later, other cases were confirmed in six Baghdad schools.

Iraq was one of the first countries to find the H1N1 virus and still they are struggling to keep citizens alive. Iraq is just as important as the other countries they need help.

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: Malawi
Delegate Name: Macy King
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

The current pandemic flu strain, known as the Swine Flu or H1N1, is a worldwide crisis in desperate need of recognition from the World Health Organization. It is a flu virus that first originated in pigs. H1N1 occasionally mutates and is infectious in humans who have little or no immunity against it. The Swine Flu has the potential to spread quickly around the world and is more difficult to treat then the common flu.

Malawi views the Swine Flu as potentially damaging to the worlds future as well as our own. According to the World Health Organization, Swine Flu has been recorded in 23 African countries. Although Malawi is not highly affected by H1N1 yet, it could have a destructive, fast spreading, future. This is worrisome to Malawi because we have no way to fight H1N1 once it hits. Vaccines have been given to Australia, China, and the United States of America. Malawi will not obtain the Swine Flu vaccine unless the more industrialized countries donate these supplies to us. If these supplies are not donated, Malawi will not have the funds to purchase health supplies; therefore our future is not certain.

We hope to obtain help and supplies from the assistance of Southern African countries. South Africa is home to a medical institute with many more health personnel’s then Malawi can currently afford. We have been continually fighting AIDS and Malaria with South Africa and plea for help to continue to supply vaccines and health supplies to Malawi. We also ask Southern Africa to acknowledge the Swine Flu, and the possible outcomes on Malawi.

Malawi expects to be supplied with vaccines and further supplies from countries currently provided with the H1N1 vaccine. We also ask industrialized countries with a higher power in the UN to acknowledge developing countries like Malawi when distributing vaccines.

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: Mozambique
Delegate Name: Ben Silverman
School: Roeper School

The World Health Organization has been a great source for ideas bringing hope and reasoning for countries throughout the world. Mozambique feels it is in order that the WHO is used for this situation at hand. A new virus has created great concern for Mozambique, as well as other countries. The virus known as swine flu, or technically called H1N1. More then 150 countries in the world have reported cases of H1N1, and it has caused over 6000 deaths globally.

Diseases have always been a problem for the Republic of Mozambique. As a country in a tropical climate, the types of diseases will vary and results can be drastic. Women and children are usually those who are most affected by diseases. Infant mortality rate is more than 10%. Poorer people, who make up over 80% of our population, are most drastically affected. The most crucial set back is that when the poor citizens can not work. This tragically sets back the economy and limits the development of the nation and its citizens’ wellbeing.

H1N1 should be treated carefully. One of the key factors of H1N1 is its ability to spread very quickly. Once a country has one case of H1N1 gone unnoticed, a massive surge of the virus will go from person to person, traveling quickly without any major symptoms. One source that has been very useful is education. In Mozambique, the average person goes to school for 1.5 years. We feel that with the knowledge of this virus, people become as frightened as the whole world has been while observing this virus take over populations within months.

The final accomplishment will be to keep all healthy people of a population away from the virus and end its spread. As for the ones infected with the virus, quick treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs, anti-diarrhea medicines and fluids can minimize the impact of the disease. Globally, money and effort towards research and distribution of vaccines to developing nations would be the most useful resources. Once any help through a vaccine or any drugs have been found or created, it is important that a foundation is in place for the distribution of the medicine.

Mozambique calls on all nations to urge the WHO to speed production of the H1N1 vaccine, and sanitary techniques to minimize the spread of the virus. We want to assure that developing nations are able to gain access to this medicine, not simply nations who are wealthy.

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: Netherlands
Delegate Name: Sarah Greeley
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

In the country of the Netherlands, health for the citizens living in country has been and will continue to be a very important priority. The health system has only progressed over the years and changes their policy to cooperate with the citizens. Mostly every person living in the Kingdom of the Netherlands will be able to be catered to in a time of need, and there are committees that deal with this.

There has been a pandemic flu that has slowly made its way to the Netherlands. But there have only been a few recorded cases of any sort of flu outbreak. One would be swine flu, which has affected many other countries around the world and has turned out to be less dangerous that most thought. And the other flu that traveled to the Netherlands would be bird flu. This flu has also made its way around to other countries and can easily be taken care of.

Yes, the Netherlands does realize that the six people who were diagnosed with either swine flu or bird flu sadly died, but they were at the key ages where both flues affect people the most, a very young age or a very old age. The Netherlands is well aware of this. And since these flues were discovered in our country, we have been trying to take care of the problem. Shots were offered at hospitals and any sort of trades coming in from Mexico, Spain, United Kingdom, or Greece were cleaned and sanitized.

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: New Zealand
Delegate Name: Emma Hughes
School: Ann Arbor Community High School

The World Health Organization functions in “providing leadership on matters critical to health and engaging in partnerships where joint action is needed.” A pandemic influenza occurs approximately three times per century, but it is particularly threatening because it is a virus against which people have no immunity. Of prominent global concern, the H1N1 influenza (“swine flu”) has reached a pandemic level; more than 70 countries have reported cases of the H1N1 virus. Coordinated efforts toward this principle are essential in addition to rapid detection and isolation. This widespread influenza has the power to affect every country in the world, so it is necessary for member states to cooperate if the functions of the WHO are to be maintained.

New Zealand is clearly solicitous to this matter, recognizing the need for response to an influenza pandemic. As one of the countries presently affected by the H1N1 influenza, New Zealand is particularly vulnerable because of its geographic location and configuration. Vulnerabilities and hazards are derived from New Zealand’s position as a relatively small island.

As a result, the New Zealand Ministry of Health developed the New Zealand Influenza Pandemic Action Plan in 2006 to prepare a national response to a pandemic. This is an action brought about by the encouragement of the World Health Organization. In addition, New Zealand is determined to educate the population about the importance of vigilance in hazardous pandemic situations. Schools can act as breeding grounds to viruses, therefore it is essential to pay attention to the conditions in schools and urge them to close if the situation worsens. Each year, hundreds of New Zealand citizens perish from the effects of influenza, contributing to increasing concern regarding pandemic influenzas.

We encourage fellow member states to follow the pressure of the World Health Organization and adopt similar policies regarding pandemic preparedness. A resolution sought in this matter should address surveillance of the pandemic situation, case investigation and treatment, and preventing the spread of disease. New Zealand concurs with United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in his statement: “Our best response is a firm demonstration of global solidarity. Like other diseases, H1N1 respects no borders. The most effective way to fight it at home, for any country, is to fight it wherever it breaks out.”

New Zealand believes that the issue of H1N1 influenza must be treated with considerable attention, controlling the matter as efficiently as possible, preventing further spread of disease, and preparing for the next possible pandemic. Infectious diseases do not respect borders of any kind; therefore it is essential that all member states cooperate to control the pandemic effectively.

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: Norway
Delegate Name: Kelly Lyon
School: Mattawan High School

Proving to be a genuine pandemic, the H1N1 influenza is currently affecting nearly every country and the World Health organization is expecting to see continued or increased cases this winter. Close to 5,700 people world-wide have died from the H1N1 influenza virus, or swine flu. This is a pandemic that Norway believes needs to be addressed immediately everywhere around the world.

Norway recognizes this problem. In Norway, we have had thirteen reported deaths from the H1N1 influenza and about 1300 infected people. Norway is also one of nine countries that has cases of pigs infected with the H1N1 influenza virus. Several pig herds have been diagnosed and mass slaughters have taken place to prevent the pandemic from spreading to humans. The slaughtered animals have been incinerated. Norway believes that pigs should be tested and slaughtered if diagnosed.

Norway has also made efforts to ease the burden on its health care system by making the sale of Tamiflu available without a prescription. The drug helps to treat the virus, while serving as a preventative treatment as well. Although Tamiflu is not a substitute for a vaccination, it is an accessible treatment. Vaccinations are the first line of defense against the flu. Norway believes that easier access to treatment and/ or vaccinations is the best solution for the pandemic. Norway will support a resolution that will help make treatment and vaccinations available to everyone around the world in order to help stop the spread and further damage of the pandemic and prevent any more deaths.

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: Poland
Delegate Name: Rachael Gingerich
School: Saline High School

More than 399,000 laboratory confirmed cases of Pandemic Influenza H1N1 have been confirmed by the World Health organization. 4,735 deaths have also been reported. Poland strives to decrease risk of infection amongst its own citizens and those in the European Region during this critical stage of the Pandemic flu.

While it is an undoubted concern that modern travel permits a more rapid spread of the pandemic flu, Poland is determined to maintain open borders and prevent restrictions on international travel. Our government believes that prevention of travel will not prevent the spread of the disease, as Poland complies with the recommendations of WHO. Poland believes strongly in EU/WHO cooperation to control this pandemic. Poland wants to make evidenced policy decisions which permit flexible preparedness. The National Influenza Center operating in Poland is part of the Regional strategy to prevent and treat H1N1. The main pillars of this operation consist of documentation of the condition of the disease for national and international study, national awareness, and increasing influenza vaccinations for residents. While Poland is currently experiencing a sporadic pandemic, our country wants to prevent a denser level of internal infection. Poland's eastern border with Ukraine, in which 250,000 cases of influenza-like illness have been reported, is a heavy region of concern. The increasing rate of infection within Ukraine is a predictor for the European Region's oncoming winter. Transparent reporting is encouraged throughout Poland, as has been responsibly facilitated in its neighboring Ukraine.

In dealing with the Pandemic Influenza H1N1, Poland will follow the phases and framework for preparedness as specified by WHO and participate in transparent reporting. As this specific virus effects otherwise healthy people under fifty and progresses rapidly, Poland will consider all of its citizens primary risk groups and take appropriate measures to ensure that demand for vaccination is met with supply. Poland will continue to advocate for responsible use of antiviral drugs to prevent the formation of resistant strains. As H1N1 is a worldwide epidemic, Poland looks to aid all countries through its policy of transparency.

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: Russia
Delegate Name: Andrew Wirth
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Last May proved that the world is not adequately prepared to handle a global flu epidemic. As H1N1 remains a problem around the world, it is mission that United Nations must take an act on. As Mexico proved with H1N1, we need to have a better response to disease outbreaks. If we do not work together, humans’ lives are at stake and who knows what could happen to the lives of millions infected with any disease. Action is better than action in the Russian Federation’s book.

The global community needs to take more actions towards solving the disease breakout problem. Disease surveillance centers are an example that currently works in the Russian Federation. These centers do not function as hospitals or delegation of medical supplies, but are buildings that monitor disease outbreaks and plots disease zones. When H1N1 first became a global issue, the Russian Federation was able to track disease outbreaks and prevent an atrocious spread of the infectious disease. The Russian Federation believes that it will be impossible for a committee to create a resolution that deals with every major disease. Instead, we need to focus on a way to control or monitor these diseases to create a proper solution for the disease. Major studies coming out show that major Influenza out breaks are occurring in China and believe we need to deal with that specifically if we hope to deal with proper solutions.

The Russian Federation believes that disease management and control is an issue that most countries will want to act uniformly together. We have had discussions with the Peoples Republic of China and have tried to work together to find a solution. The Russian Federation believes that other western nations who have increasing immigration would also like to find a solution to the issue. With immigration increasing and diseases spreading with them, most countries would support a solution.

The Russian Federation regrets that there are some countries who would feel the need to appose a resolution that would impose on their national sovereignty. Even if countries do feel the need to take this stance, the Russian Federation wants every country to know to that Russian Federation does not want any country to feel as if invaded, but instead wants to prevent future pandemics.

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: Somalia
Delegate Name: Rachel Kovan
School: Cranbrook Kingswood

In 2009, there was an outbreak of the H1N1 influenza (“swine flu”) virus in Mexico. The outbreak of this virus triggered concern across the globe. This virus has rapidly spread, with confirmed cases all over the world. Now that this virus has reached a pandemic level, the World Health Organization (WHO) is focusing their efforts toward solving this major problem. This flu virus could possibly infect a majority of the world’s population. Something must be done to prevent this from occurring.

Somalia is a country with very poor hygiene and sanitation. Citizens are exposed to possible outbreaks of various contagious diseases. Unfortunately, due to limited funding, primary healthcare, early warning, vaccination, and outbreak response have been curtailed. Due to this lack of funding, Somalia’s citizens are at a great risk. Although Somalia has not yet been greatly affected by this virus, many cases have been found in its neighboring countries. If an outbreak of the H1N1 virus were to occur in Somalia, citizens would not be able to receive proper care and treatment.

The country of Somalia asks for urgent international funding from the United Nations to help strengthen their health system. With a fortified health system, Somalia will be prepared if an outbreak of the H1N1 virus occurs. The delegation of Somalia expects to be given all necessary drugs and technical advice. Somalia believes that countries that currently have the vaccine for this influenza virus should supply it to countries without it. The United Nations should not forget about Somalia, and other small countries, when distributing various vaccinations.

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: South Korea
Delegate Name: Breanon Glover
School: Forest Hills Central High School

With the pandemic due to the H1N1 virus sweeping through many countries recently, national discussion has shift back to the topic of pandemic flues. Although H1N1 needs to be addressed and plans need to be put in place by the WHO; there also needs to be set plans for preventing these pandemics and supplying adequate medical supplies to countries most effected by them.

South Korea is capable and strives to protect their citizens from pandemics and especially H1N1. With the resent out break of H1N1 influenza, South Korea has taken extra precautions to combat this specific flu virus. The first confirmed case of H1N1 in South Korea was in May 2009. As of August 7th, 2009, the number of H1N1 infections in South Korea is no longer being tracked, international health organizations are now only tracking the number of fatalities and in some cases the number of hospitalizations. As of November 2nd, 2009, there have only been 42 deaths, in South Korea, due to this specific virus and 15,158 total cases. South Korea took many precautions to defend itself against the H1N1 virus. In South Korea, it is reported that elementary and secondary school teachers took the body temperature of all their pupils at school gates every morning and sterilize each classroom daily. This is now not required due to the fact that the WHO has considered the overall severity of the influenza pandemic to be moderate.

But H1N1 is not the only flu that South Korea is battling, H5N1 or Bird flu is another deathly flu that is not being contained. Bird flu is a very big issue in South Korea. South Korea has already culled three million birds and had 19 farms hit with this specific virus. With in the last two months a weaker strained of this virus has re-entered many country. Although the strand is weaker it seems to be having the same effects on birds and has taken 9 lives already. With this strained of bird flu could possibly be spread by wild birds, it is of great concern and needs to be addressed before it takes more lives and spreads farther. With the 2003 outbreak showing countries how detrimental bird flu can be, not only humans, but to poultry and shipping and exporting of poultry the WHO needs to step in.

The World Health Organization has raised the level of pandemic alert for H1N1 from 4 to 5; 6 is considered a pandemic. But both levels 5 and 6 are considered to raise the awareness to great concern according to the World Health Organization. With the cooperation of all countries and the WHO we can control this problem. We should also look to the future and try and prevent flues from reaching a pandemic level. With a better plan and rules set in place we can help prevent flues from becoming pandemics.

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: Sudan
Delegate Name: Arric McLauchlan
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

The recent outbreak of the H1N1 Flu virus known as Swine Flu has erupted the world into hysteria; the first two cases of H1N1 have been confirmed in Sudan and we feel it is up to the United Nations, more specifically the World Health Organization (WHO) to help create a vaccine for this horrendous virus. But more importantly, Cholera, Dysentery, and Malaria constitute a serious health burden in Sudan, with Malaria representing the country’s leading cause of death.

Sudan is more worried about diseases such as Cholera and Malaria than it is with H1N1, but we are also concerned with the growing apprehension of this intimidating virus. Malaria, which kills an estimated one million people every year, is Africa’s leading cause of death among children under five. It accounts for a tenth of the overall disease burden across the continent. Thirty-four deaths and over fourteen hundred have fallen ill and the suspected cause is Cholera. This could be due to the fact that less than a third of Sudan has access to safe drinking water. Most of the country survives off of the polluted and untreated Nile river for their water source.

To reiterate, Sudan is alarmed about the recent outbreak of the H1N1 virus also known as Swine Flu, but is more concerned with Malaria, Cholera, Dysentery, and access to safe drinking water. These are much more pressing issues in the eyes of the Sudanese and deserve an effort to aid them before the effort to aid the H1N1 virus.

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: United Kingdom
Delegate Name: Josh Cho
School: Cranbrook Kingswood

The United Kingdom recognizes that the pandemic flu has been a serious problem all over the world. The H1N1 virus, more commonly known as the Swine Flu, is especially dangerous because it is a mutated version of the influenza virus and therefore makes everybody vulnerable. The major cause for concern was the 1918 Swine Flu outbreak, which killed as many as a 100 million people around the world.

With the potential for another worldly outbreak, the United Kingdom believes that all countries should take all steps necessary to prevent one. Steps that can be taken to reduce the toll of Swine Flu include harsher restrictions at airports for people who are sick, wide distribution of Tamiflu, one of the only antiviral medications that have any effect on the H1N1, and by encouraging hygiene. With these cautions in place, we can dramatically reduce the worldwide impact of the H1N1.

The United Kingdom is in high risk of having a large H1N1 outbreak because it is a very cosmopolitan country. We are a large business hub and the London Heathrow Airport is the second busiest airport in the world. This makes the United Kingdom very vulnerable to the disease. As a result, we have released a swine flu vaccine for the general public. Since the first case of H1N1 in February of 2009, the number of infected people increased to over 7000 in June. Despite the flu’s low mortality rate (3 dead in 7800 cases), it is still a danger to the public and should be contained. The United Kingdom is also willing to help any country with acquiring vaccines, to help slow the spread of the disease.

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: United States
Delegate Name: Ross Lacker
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

The United States of America is cognizant of the sweeping and unfortunate effects of pandemic influenza on our society. Recently, the world has attempted to grapple with the H1N1 virus as it spreads rampantly across the world. The United States of America is privileged to have the scientific resources to create and distribute vaccines for many different pandemic flues, and we are grateful for this privilege in the current H1N1 pandemic.

Recently, President Barack Obama pledged to distribute 10% of American-made vaccines to nations without the scientific capabilities necessary to produce the H1N1 vaccine. We will accomplish this distribution through the World Health Organization (WHO) in order to ensure proper use and administration of the vaccine. This manifestation of our commitment is just one manner in which the United States of America seeks to contain and destroy the dangerous H1N1 influenza virus. The United States of America is also at the forefront of global coalitions specifically designed to stymie the H1N1 influenza virus by using all developed medical technologies to revolutionize the treatment and containment of pandemic influenza.

Our efforts have been strengthened and supplemented by the commitment of several other nations, among them Australia, Brazil, France, Italy, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. With a united front, we can combat invasive influenza and contain the threat of H1N1. At this summit, we seek to increase aid to nations without the resources to fight H1N1 alone, and we will encourage other nations to join this effort in urgency by donating vaccines, money, and technical assistance.

Respectfully submitted,

The United States of America

Topic: Pandemic Flu
Country: Venezuela
Delegate Name: Monica Shah
School: Saline High School

H1N1 is a virus that has wiped out a moderate amount of Venezuelans! That last reported case of Swine Flu in Venezuela was Wednesday Nov. 4, 2009. Currently, the main target of swine flu in Venezuela is the remote Venezuelan villages. CARACAS, Venezuela — Swine flu has appeared among Venezuela's Yanomami Indians, one of the largest isolated indigenous groups in the Amazon, and a doctor said Wednesday that the virus is suspected in seven deaths, including six infants. The deaths happened in forest villages near Venezuela's border with Brazil over the past 2 1/2 weeks, said Raidan Bernade, a Venezuelan doctor on a team working to contain the outbreak and treat the ill. Bernade told The Associated Press that doctors confirmed one of those who died had swine flu — a 35-year-old Yanomami woman who doctors believe was pregnant. Six babies, the oldest of whom was about 1 year old, died from similar symptoms, though samples weren't taken in time to confirm it was swine flu, Bernade said by phone from La Esmeralda, a riverside town at the edge of the vast rain forest territory where the Yanomami live. He said the victims had fever and coughing at first, and suffered complications from pneumonia. The deaths were reported Wednesday by the London-based indigenous rights group Survival International, which warned that if not properly contained the virus could spread and cause more deaths among people who are particularly susceptible to disease due to their limited contact with the outside world. Yamilet Mirabal, the government's deputy minister of indigenous affairs for the region, told the AP she was informed of six Yanomami deaths suspected of being due to swine flu. She said the outbreak was detected about three weeks ago and health officials have taken precautions since to prevent the illness from spreading. She said suspected swine flu cases appeared in three Yanomami villages — Mavaca, Platanal and Hatakoa — and a Cuban-trained team of Venezuelan doctors known as Battalion 51 was sent to the area to treat the ill and track possible cases.T wo swine flu cases have been confirmed among the ill, Mirabal said. Doctors have identified more than 3,000 people with various respiratory illnesses in the zone and took samples from those with serious cases, Bernade said. He said about 110 sick people are being evaluated to see if they might have swine flu, though doctors believe most have a seasonal flu that appears regularly in the area. He said the number of people who are ill has been declining. It is unclear how swine flu reached the Yanomami. There are an estimated 28,000 or more Yanomami living in communities on both sides of the Venezuela-Brazil border. They have maintained their language as well as traditions including face paint and wooden facial ornaments piercing their noses, cheeks and lips. On June 8th , 2009, Warden Message alerts U.S. citizens to the latest information regarding human cases of H1N1 Influenza A, formerly known as swine flu. The Ministry of People’s Power for Health and Social Protection in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela has reported that there are twelve confirmed case of H1N1 Influenza A in Venezuela. These confirmed H1N1 cases in Venezuela were contracted outside of Venezuela or through close contact with the infected person. Local authorities have stated that there are no travel restrictions, although there are heightened immigration and customs controls along the Venezuelan borders, ports and airports. In addition, all travelers entering Venezuela are required to provide their travel itinerary information, a local Venezuelan address and contact information, and to state if they have any flu-like symptoms. The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that the Swine Flu casualties have passed the 6,000 mark. More than 199 countries and regions are affected by the pandemic so far. According to WHO, the Swine Flu death toll across the world has reached 6,071 on November 1, 2009. Most of the deaths were reported from Central America and Latin America and it has the account for 4,399 deaths. In October of 2009, Venezuela confirmed that there have been 90 deaths from swine flu, and 1,910 cases of the virus. This may not be much, but this is only the start. For the Avian Flu, Venezuela Health and Environment Ministries have created a emergency plan just in case, although no reports have been shown.