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Pandemic Flu (information adapted from www.pandemicflu.gov)

A flu pandemic occurs when a new influenza virus emerges for which people have little or no immunity, and for which there is no vaccine. The disease spreads easily person-to-person, causes serious illness, and can sweep across the country and around the world in very short time.

It is difficult to predict when the next influenza pandemic will occur or how severe it will be. Wherever and whenever a pandemic starts, everyone around the world is at risk.

What Are the Symptoms of Pandemic Flu?

Initial signs of Pandemic Flu are basically the same as regular flu, but more severe:

• Fever/Chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

What Can We Do Now?

1. Plan

• Store a two week supply of water and food. During a pandemic, if you cannot get to a store, or if stores are out of supplies, it will be important for you to have extra supplies on hand. This can be useful in other types of emergencies, such as power outages and disasters.
• Periodically check your regular prescription drugs to ensure a continuous supply in your home. Have any nonprescription drugs and other health supplies on hand, including pain relievers, stomach remedies, cough and cold medicines, fluids with electrolytes, and vitamins.
• Talk with family members and loved ones about how they would be cared for if they got sick, or what will be needed to care for them in your home. Volunteer with local groups to prepare and assist with emergency response. Get involved in your community as it works to prepare for an influenza pandemic.

2. Prevent

To limit the spread of germs and prevent infection:

• Teach your children to wash hands frequently with soap and water, and model the correct behavior.
• Wash hands after coughing, sneezing, shaking hands, opening doors, before preparing foods and before eating.
• Clean high touch surfaces such as desks, tables, door knobs, telephone receivers, etc., at least daily.
• Teach your children to cover coughs and sneezes with tissues, and be sure to model that behavior.
• Dispose of tissues immediately.
• Teach your children to stay away from others as much as possible if they are sick.
• Stay home from work and school if sick.
• Avoid crowds during flu season.
• Minimize sharing of personal items. Don't share: towels, utensils, keyboards, phones, gym equipment and office supplies (pens, pencils, etc.).

  Links:                                                  

Department of Health and Human Services: www.pandemicflu.gov

World Health Organization: www.who.int/csr/disease/avian_influenza/en/index.html

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov/flu/avian/index.htm

California Department of Health Services Pandemic Influenza Plan: www.dhs.ca.gov/ps/dcdc/DCDCIndex.htm