Untreated Swine Flu (H1N1) in Drug Rehabilitation Facility Due to Lack of Immunization Program

ByMichael Talve, CEO

|

Updated onOctober 3, 2017

Untreated Swine Flu (H1N1) in Drug Rehabilitation Facility Due to Lack of Immunization Program

This virology case involves a woman who was admitted to a drug rehabilitation facility and developed flu-like symptoms that went unnoticed for a prolonged period of time. The patient complained of unrelenting fever and extreme fatigue and pain mimicking symptoms close to that of H1N1, which was prevalent at the time of the case. The patient’s condition went unaddressed until her condition deteriorated to the extent that she became severely cyanotic and oxygen saturation was between 70-75%. The patient was so poorly managed that once the doctor on call at the facility was finally notified the condition had reached the critical point requiring mechanical ventilation.

Question(s) For Expert Witness

1. Did the patient show signs of swine flu?

2. Considering H1N1 alerts were issued at that time, should the treatment center have taken active steps to prevent the infection?

Expert Witness Response E-000626

inline imageThe symptoms of 2009 H1N1 flu virus in people include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea. People may be infected with the flu, including 2009 H1N1 and have respiratory symptoms without a fever. Severe illnesses and deaths have occurred as a result of illness associated with this virus. Pneumonia was one of the prevalent causes of death especially in adults older than 65, those with COPD or asthma or other chronic conditions such as congestive heart failure. The year this occurred affects what the facility should have been doing. 2009 - 2010 were certainly years when broad spread immunization was recommended. Patients in a drug rehab center often have suppressed immune systems secondary to malnutrition as well as high rates of hep C. They should have had an immunization program in place as this is a high-risk population.

About the author

Michael Talve, CEO

Michael Talve, CEO

Michael Talve stands at the forefront of legal innovation as the CEO and Managing Director of Expert Institute. Under his leadership, the Expert Institute has established itself as a vital player in the legal technology arena, revolutionizing how lawyers connect with world-class experts and access advanced legal technology. Michael's role involves not only steering the company's strategic direction but also ensuring the delivery of unparalleled intelligence and cutting-edge solutions to legal professionals. His work at Expert Institute has been instrumental in enhancing the capabilities of attorneys in case preparation and execution, making a significant impact on the legal industry's approach to expert consultation and technological integration. Michael's vision and execution have positioned the Expert Institute as a key facilitator in the intersection of law and technology.

Find an expert witness near you

What State is your case in?

What party are you representing?