Influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus infection placed a significant burden on intensive care services in the north of England during winter 2010–11 compared with the influenza outbreak in 2009–10. The clinical characteristics of 160 adult patients requiring mechanical ventilation are described in this paper. Comparisons are made with other reported series. Issues related to patient transfers along with logistical and ethical issues arising from national guidance are also discussed.
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