Physicians Say Risk Level Rising for Potential H1N1 Flu Pandemic

A new national study among 696 physicians revealed that more than one-third of physicians (37 percent) reported that there was "somewhat of a risk" that the H1N1 swine flu could result in a catastrophic pandemic, the highest level since an April study in which 49 percent of physicians reported that there was "somewhat of a risk" for a pandemic.

The study was conducted last night by HCD Research using its MediaCurves.com Web site, and the Muhlenberg College Institute of Public Opinion (MCIPO), as part of a series of studies which were conducted during April, May and June to obtain physicians' perceptions of the H1N1 virus. The studies are being conducted on a weekly basis to measure physicians' perceptions regarding their personal and professional views on the issue. To view detailed results click HERE.

When asked what top three sources they use to obtain information on H1N1 swine flu, physicians listed government agency communications (77 percent) as their top choice, followed by the news media (71 percent) and medical associations (55 percent), similar to previous studies.