The evaluation of policies on 2009 influenza pandemic in Korea

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the policies on 2009 influenza pandemic in Korea at the end of first wave. Methods: The main policies and the estimation of these were described according to the progress of 2009 influenza pandemic. Results: The public health measures for containment were estimated to be successful in the early stage. The preparedness of antiviral agents and vaccines before the pandemic, risk-communication on pandemic influenza and policies of government including vaccines, and the education of health care worker and support of health care institutions was not enough to respond to the pandemic. Conclusions: The additional evaluation should be performed at the end of the pandemic in various aspects including health and socioeconomic effects.