Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness that attacks the nose, throat, and lungs. The H1N1 flu differs from the regular, seasonal flu in that it is a completely new strain of influenza, the result of a multi-viral mutation. H1N1 is highly contagious, and it is spreading rapidly from person to person, claiming hundreds of lives worldwide, with thousands of confirmed cases in countries across multiple continents. In response, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a Phase 6 global influenza pandemic. Under the current circumstances, emergency medical service providers must have the knowledge and skills necessary to implement disease control measures and ensure a sustainable medical healthcare system.. This program examines how the virus is transmitted, prevention techniques, and what to do if you are infected. It also examines signs and symptoms of the H1N1 flu and issues surrounding the new vaccine.
