"Examining the pandemic influenza threat, this book outlines the containment and response capabilities needed to effectively plan and prepare for a wide-spread outbreak. Addressing clinical factors and public health challenges, the authors examine critical issues such as the types of influenza and related health implications, outbreak prevention and mass prophylaxis measures, medical supply and fatality management, response actions for various emergency service disciplines, and the potential economic effects of a pandemic outbreak. Mirroring the goals of the U.S. National Strategy for Pandemic Influenza, the text underscores the importance of expanding the health care system’s capacity to provide adequate triage and medical care."