H1N1 09 influenza—An aeromedical perspective

SummaryThe Royal Flying Doctor Service, Queensland Section is the primary service provider for aeromedical retrieval and transfer within Queensland. During the recent H1N1 09 influenza pandemic the organisation was required to undertake substantial planning as well as revision of existing guidelines in light of a new strain of influenza of unknown transmissibility and virulence and potential increase in workload. This paper provides an overview of the experiences of the organisation during the H1N1 09 influenza pandemic including surge capacity planning, infection control measures unique to the aeromedical environment, caseload data and employee health impacts.