Los Angeles Times: Swine flu outbreak declared 'public health emergency'

Mexican pedestrians and motorists wait at the Ciudad Juarez crossing amid delays as U.S. authorities try to screen for possible swine flu cases. Health officials fear a global pandemic if the virus is found to transmit easily among humans. (Jesus Alcazar / EPA)

Reporting from Los Angeles and Mexico City -- International officials Saturday declared the swine flu outbreak in Mexico and the U.S. a 'public health emergency' as new cases were reported on both sides of the border and fears grew of a possible global epidemic.

The Mexican government indicated that the outbreak was more severe than originally acknowledged, announcing that more than 1,300 people are believed to have been infected. The virus, which the World Health Organization's top official said had 'pandemic potential,' is now suspected in the deaths of 81 Mexicans, Health Secretary Jose Angel Cordova said.

Los Angeles Times: Swine flu outbreak declared 'public health emergency