carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odourless, colourless, non-irritant gas. It is the most common cause of fatal poisoning in Britain today. It causes the accidental deaths of up to 50 people each year in the UK and a much larger number of non-fatal poisonings.
These figures could be just the tip of the iceberg because poisoning by carbon monoxide is almost certainly underdetected. There are two main reasons for this.
Firstly, there is generally little awareness of carbon monoxide poisoning among the general public and the medical profession.
Secondly, the signs and symptoms associated with carbon monoxide poisoning are not easy to diagnose as they often mimic many other conditions.
To overcome this deadly killer requires improved awareness among the public of the risks and dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning and increased vigilance on the part of healthcare professionals in its detection.
Children, pregnant women, babies, and individuals with a heart or lung condition are those at most risk – but CO poisoning can affect anyone.
http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/health_advice/facts/carbonmonoxide.htm