July 9, 2009 Obama on H1N1 flu: Must promote vigilance, preparation Play video

(NECN: Washington) - President Barack Obama this morning added his personal call to states to get ready for a possible H1N1 (swine) flu resurgence in the fall.

Obama telephoned the National Institutes of Health all the way from Italy Thursday to tell a meeting of 500 flu officials not to promote panic, but to make sure "we are promoting vigilance and preparation."

Saying the potential for a significant fall outbreak is looming, Obama said steps are being taken now to prepare are crucial to protect "our neighbors and our friends and co-workers."