The World Health Organization officially declares swine flu a global pandemic, as cases mount

The World Health Organisation has declared a global swine flu pandemic after an emergency meeting in Geneva. The WHO stressed that the move was a response to the SPREAD of the infection, and not because it had become more severe. This comes as Australia has reported a sharp rise in swine flu infections. Since April there have been almost 28 thousand cases globally and 141 deaths. The WHO says it will work with other organisations to ensure no travel bans will result from the pandemic status.