Anatomy of a pandemic: influenza A (H1N1) 2009

The H1N1 2009 influenza A virus has reached pandemic status and is currently infecting hundreds of thousands of people, spreading efficiently since being isolated in Mexico in April 2009. In this review, the current pandemic state of H1N1 will be discussed along with the symptoms and severity of illness caused by the virus and how they compare to previous pandemics. A number of diagnostic tests are available for the rapid detection of the H1N1 2009 infection and are discussed, along with management of infection and the emergence of antiviral resistance. A vaccine has currently been licensed for use against the H1N1 2009 virus and its effectiveness will be addressed, along with prevention measures that should be taken to hinder further spread of the virus