[The pandemic--an afterthought]

Abstract

During the second half of 2009 the Norwegian people experienced the first pandemic influenza since the Hong-Kong disease in 1968. The pandemic was initially believed to be severe, but it soon became evident that the disease was milder than anticipated. In spite of this the health authorities increased the level of threat and recommended general vaccination and exempt of oseltamivir (Tamiflu) from prescription requirements. In the paper we critically evaluate the evidence-base and consequences of these recommendations.