Fears global virus could mutate into a more effective killer

DECLARING a flu pandemic does not mean the virus has become more deadly, just that its geographical spread is now truly global.

The disease has so far – resulted in mostly mild illness. Some experts believe the virus could mutate into something more deadly as we head into winter.

The Southern Hemisphere is now moving into its peak winter flu season, and Ireland will need to watch what happens in places like Australia in the coming months.