The world is now at the start of the 2009 influenza pandemic, according to Dr Margaret Chan, Director-General of the World Health Organisation. In a statement, Dr Chan announced that, 'The virus is contagious, spreading easily from one person to another, and from one country to another. Nearly 30,000 confirmed cases have been reported in 74 countries.' For information on swine flu and for updated guidance for health professionals visit http://www.bda.org and http://www.doh.gov.uk.