abstract: Fear of flying: the government has published updated guidance for category 1 emergency care workers about a possible flu pandemic. The new guidance, designed to assist contingency planning, comes amid continuing concern that the 'bird flu' virus, H5N1, will develop an ability to pass easily between humans. Speaking this month, chief medical officer for England Sir Liam Donaldson said: 'Wherever in the world a flu pandemic starts, we must assume we will be unable to prevent it reaching the UK. When it does, its impact will be severe in the number of illnesses and the disruption to everyday life.' For details of the updated guidance, access www.preparingforemergencies.gov.uk/emergency/health.shtm.