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Preparing for Pandemic (worldwide) Influenza

A pandemic is a worldwide disease outbreak. An influenza pandemic occurs when a new influenza A virus emerges for which humans have little or no immunity to , begins to cause serious illness and then starts spreading person to person globally at an eccelerated rate . The federal government, states, communities and industry are taking steps to prepare for and respond to an influenza pandemic.

A pandemic is likely to be a prolonged and widespread outbreak that could require temporary changes in our society, such as schools, work places, transportation and other public services we take for granted. A public that is well informed can take appropriate actions to lessen their risk during a pandemic.

Communities, Businesses and Individuals Should:

• Develop preparedness plans as you would for other public health emergencies.
  
• Participate and promote public health efforts in your state and community.
  
• 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.
  
• 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.
  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes with tissues.
  • Stay away from others as much as possible if you are sick.
  
  
• Stay informed about pandemic influenza and be prepared to respond.
  • Consult www.avianinfluenza.org frequently for updates on national and international information on pandemic influenza.
  • Use national and local pandemic hotlines that will be established in the eventuality of a global influenza outbreak.
  • Listen to radio and television and read media stories about pandemic flu.