Pandemic Influenza

Unlike seasonal influenza (flu), which we can be vaccinated against each year, pandemic influenza is a worldwide outbreak of a new flu virus for which there is little or no immunity (protection) in the human population. There are three conditions that must be met for an influenza pandemic to occur:

1. A new influenza virus subtype emerges;

2. It infects humans, causing serious illness; and,

3. It spreads easily and sustainably among humans.

Currently, there is not a influenza pandemic occurring in the world. However, the World Health Organization has put the world at Pandemic Alert Level 3. This means that a new influenza virus subtype is causing disease in humans, but is not yet spreading efficiently and sustainably among humans. The new influenza virus is H5N1, a flu virus that affects birds.

A pandemic is likely to be a prolonged and widespread outbreak that could require temporary changes in many areas of society, such as schools, work, transportation and other public services. An informed and prepared public can take appropriate actions to decrease their risk during a pandemic.

Actions Communities, Businesses and Individuals Should Take Before A Pandemic Occurs:

· Develop preparedness plans as you would for other public health emergencies. The following are checklists that can help you in your preparedness efforts:

1. Individuals and Families

2. Businesses

3. Educational Agencies

4. Healthcare Providers and Service Organizations

5. Faith-based and Community Organizations

· Participate and promote public health efforts in your community, business, school and/or home.

· Talk with your local public health officials and health care providers; they can supply information about the signs and symptoms of a specific disease outbreak.

· Implement prevention and control actions recommended by your public health officials and providers.

· Adopt business/school practices that encourage sick employees/students to stay home.

· Anticipate how to function with a significant portion of the workforce/school population absent due to illness or caring for ill family members.

· Practice good health habits, including eating a balanced diet, exercising daily, and getting sufficient rest and take these common-sense steps to stop the spread of germs.

1. Wash hands frequently with soap and water.

2. Cover coughs and sneezes with tissues.

3. Stay away from others as much as possible if you are sick.

· Stay informed about pandemic influenza and be prepared to respond.

1. Consult www.pandemicflu.gov frequently for updates on national and international information on pandemic influenza.

2. Use national and local pandemic hotlines that may be established in the eventuality of a global influenza outbreak.

3. Listen to radio and television and read media stories about pandemic flu.