CDC: California's Swine Flu Response Fast, Efficient

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Federal officials say California's response to last year's swine flu pandemic was fast and efficient, with most counties receiving shipments of vaccine within 24 hours of requesting it.

In a report released Tuesday, the Centers for Disease Control and Preparedness says comprehensive planning, training and testing prepared the California Department of Public Health for the swine flu.

The state department shipped about 2 million doses of antiviral drugs to local departments in the wake of a global outbreak of illness.

The World Health Organization declared the swine flu pandemic over last month, with more than 18,400 deaths around the world.

California has tallied nearly 600 deaths in the outbreak.

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