Brasília, 2/16/2004 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - The Pan-American Health Organization warns that a new, dangerous flu strain, the Fujiam, is expected to arrive in Brazil earlier than flu viruses usually arrive. Fujiam hit the United States last December, two months ahead of schedule, and put thousands in the hospital.

Brazil's flu season is normally in July and August. This year a flu vaccine campaign is scheduled to take place between April 17 and 30. It will be free of charge for seniors - people above 60 years of age (this is the only age group that will be vaccinated). The Ministry of Health says it will spend R$105 million and the tartget is to vaccinate 75% of the country's 15,212,000 citizens who are over 60. (AB)