Pandemic Influenza

Basic facts about the pandemic flu

Occurs about 3 times each century - at any time of the year ( Spanish Flu: 1918-1919; Asian Flu: 1957-1958; Hong Kong Flu: 1968-1969)

May affect 50% of the population

People of every age may be at risk

A vaccine will probably not be available at first

Antiviral drugs may be in limited supply and the virus may be resistant to them.


What can you do to avoid getting sick and prevent the spread of influenza?

If you feel sick, stay home and away from others.  Symptoms range from flu-like symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat and muscle aches) to eye infections, pneumonia, and severe respiratory diseases.  Symptoms may depend on which virus causes the infection.

Stay away from people who are sick.

To help stop the spread of germs:
    + cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
    + if you do not have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, but not your hands
    + put your used tissue in the waste basket
 
Clean your hands frequently, especially after coughing or sneezing.
    + wash with soap and water
    or
    + clean with alcohol-based hand cleaner

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as much as possible.

Avoid smoking and tobacco smoke.  Tobacco use has been associated with greater risk of severe complications from certain lung infections.

Get vaccinated with the seasonal flu vaccine to decrease the risk of a compounding viral infection and possible complications.

Get regular exercise, enough rest, and eat healthy balanced meals.

If told to wear a mask, wear it as instructed:
    + secure ties or bands at the middle of the head and neck
    + fix flexible band to nose bridge
    + fit snug to face and below chin


For more information about Influenza Pandemics visit these websites:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: 

http://www.pandemicflu.gov/


National Vaccine Program Office:

http://www.hhs.gov/


Key Facts About Avian Influenza: (Bird Flu) and Avian Influenza A (H5N1) Virus:

http://www.cdc.gov/flu/avian/gen-info/facts.htm


Visit World Health Organization

Avian Influenza:  http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factssheets/avian_influenza/en/

Avian Influenza (Western Pacific Region): 
http://www.wpro.who.int/health_topics/avian_influenza/overview.htm