We’re in the middle of the H1N1 influenza virus pandemic. The phones keep ringing in doctors’ offices, emergency rooms are busy, schools are closed, and the vaccine is in short supply. What’s the future hold?

Three experts will answer viewers’ questions about H1N1/swine flu on a special hour-long live presentation of “Doctors On Call” on West Virginia Public Television, Thursday (Nov. 19) at 8 p.m.

Cathy Slemp, M.D., is the state health officer and director of the Division of Threat Preparedness, West Virginia Bureau for Public Health.

Rashida Khakoo, M.D., is an infectious disease specialist in the Department of Medicine at West Virginia University. She has been leading the response to flu at WVU Hospitals.

The program’s host is Kathy Moffett, M.D., a pediatric infectious disease specialist at WVU. Dr. Moffett has been caring for children with the flu at WVU Children’s Hospital.

This is the third “Doctors on Call” program this year to focus on H1N1. Telephone lines were busy throughout both previous shows. Dr. Slemp said it’s important to reach a statewide audience with accurate information about the flu.

“Doctors on Call” is a joint production of the Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center at WVU (www.wvuhealth.com) and West Virginia Public Broadcasting, a statewide network of radio, television, Internet and educational resources.

This program is made possible with major support from Mylan Pharmaceuticals. Other underwriters include The Health Plan, HealthSouth Mountainview Rehabilitation Hospital and the Center for Organ Recovery and Education.

For information about swine flu see http://www.wvuhealth.com and click on the red health alert link.

-WVU-

kc/alj/11/17/09

CONTACT: Amy Johns, HSC News Service
304-293-7087, johnsa@wvuh.com