A general practice perspective of pandemic influenza.

During an influenza pandemic, general practice will inevitably be involved at the front line; however, the nature of the role is likely to vary between jurisdictions and between metropolitan and rural locations. While most of the plans for general practice are still in evolution, measures that general practices can take to prepare for a pandemic include: reviewing the practice's infection control measures; ensuring all at-risk patients are immunised against seasonal influenza and pneumococcus; routinely advising all patients with viral upper respiratory tract infections on infection control techniques; connecting the practice to broadband Internet to aid communication; employing a practice nurse; and appointing a practice pandemic coordinator. General practices should start their preparations now.