Influenza Pandemic
A pandemic is a global disease outbreak. An
influenza pandemic occurs when a new influenza A
virus emerges for which there is little or no
immunity in the human population and the virus
begins to cause serious illness and then spreads
easily person-to-person worldwide. The federal
government, states, communities and industry are
taking steps to prepare for and respond to an
influenza pandemic.
If a pandemic occurs, it 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. To be
prepared for such an emergency, the U.S
Department of Health and Human Services
encourages individuals, businesses and
communities to:
-
Talk with your local public health officials
and health care providers, who can supply
information about the signs and symptoms of
a specific disease outbreak and recommend
prevention and control actions.
-
Adopt business/school practices that
encourage sick employees/students to stay
home and 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. In addition,
take common-sense steps to stop the spread
of germs including frequent hand washing,
covering coughs and sneezes and staying away
from others as much as possible when you are
sick.
-
Stay informed about pandemic influenza and
be prepared to respond. Consult
www.pandemicflu.gov frequently for
updates on national and international
information on pandemic influenza.
