The World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday declared an end to the H1N1 pandemic influenza.

WHO Director-General Margaret Chan made the announcement following recommendations from the Emergency Committee of international experts.

"The world is no longer in phase 6 of influenza pandemic alert. We are now moving into the post-pandemic period. The new H1N1 virus has largely run its course," Chan told a telephone press conference from Hong Kong.

Chan said the decision was based on assessments made by the 15-member Emergency Committee, which was convened earlier Tuesday by teleconference.

"The Committee based its assessment on the global situation, as well as reports from several countries that are now experiencing influenza. I fully agree with the Committee's advice," Chan said.

(Xinhua News Agency August 10, 2010)