WHO backs away from 150 million flu deaths

Reuters AlertNet - WHO backs away from 150 million flu deaths. Gorse Fox thought these numbers to be excessive and sensationalistic. However,

GENEVA, Sept 30 (Reuters) - The World Health Organisation (WHO) said on Friday 2-7.4 million deaths was a reasonable working forecast for a global influenza pandemic -- distancing itself from a top U.N. official's figure of up to 150 million.

Then came the slap on the wrist:

"There is obvious confusion, and I think that has to be straightened out. I don't think you will hear Dr. Nabarro say the same sort of thing again," WHO influenza spokesman Dick Thompson told a news briefing.

Atishoo.
[File under: Flu]