A Case Study – H1N1 Virus

July 2009 saw the beginning of the most recent global H1N1 influenza pandemic with around 30,000 confirmed cases reported in 74 countries although unconfirmed cases make this outbreak undoubtedly more significant. The economic impact of influenza can be huge; the World Health Organisation estimated an H1N1 pandemic could cost the UK economy over £70 billion so a measure with the potential to limit the spread of viral infection is worthy of including in an infection control strategy. The evidence described here suggests the application of BioCote® antiviral technology has the potential to complement strategies aimed at inhibiting the spread of viruses responsible for influenza illness.