Zhong Nanshan

Zhong Nanshan, an epidemiologist in Guangdong's provincial capital of Guangzhou, said all kinds of flu viruses, including H1N1, could be lethal.

"Timely detection and proper treatment can avert severe flu cases and related deaths," he said.

Zhong said clinical guidelines he compiled with more than 20 experts will soon be issued to ensure a better flu response nationwide.

In August 2010, the World Health Organization declared the end of 2009's H1N1 flu pandemic, which killed more than 18,000 worldwide since it appeared in April 2009.