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 Since the last influenza pandemic occurred in 1968, if you don't remember what it was like before having a cell phone, a computer mouse, or Post-it Notes, chances are you have never experienced an influenza pandemic or are not aware of the serious impact it can cause. According to the World Health Organization, an influenza pandemic occurs when a new strain of influenza virus emerges and starts spreading easily from person-to-person. Because the virus is new, people will have little or no natural immunity. It is also likely that no vaccine will be available, at least in the early stages. As a result, this new strain of virus can spread quickly; causing serious illness, high death rates, and great social disruption across the world. Pandemic flu is rare, but history shows that it is nothing new. Records show that about 30 influenza pandemics and numerous “pandemic threats” have occurred throughout history. Although it is impossible to predict when Mother Nature might target the human race, many scientists believe that it is not an issue of IF another pandemic will occur, but rather, WHEN. The three most recent flu pandemics occurred in the 1900's: the “Spanish Influenza” in 1918, the “Asian Influenza” in 1957, and the “Hong Kong influenza” in 1968, with various degrees of severity. Although health care has greatly advanced, epidemiological models from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention project that a modern-day pandemic could result in as many as 2 to 7.4 million deaths worldwide. When compared to the effects of seasonal flu with about 500,000 deaths worldwide, the need for taking action is clear. Influenza experts agree that the level of preparedness will greatly influence the economic and medical impact of the disease, as well as the final death rate. It is important to emphasize that although there is not an influenza pandemic currently, a flu pandemic may start without warning, in any country, at any time. In his opening remarks for the Idaho State Pan Flu Summit in March 2006, Michael Leavitt, Secretary of Health and Human Services stressed the importance of taking the threat of a pandemic seriously and warned Idahoans not to be caught off guard. He said, “When the next pandemic strikes, as it surely will, it is likely to touch the lives of every individual, family, and community. Our task is to make sure that when this happens, we will be a Nation prepared.” DEFINITIONS: Seasonal flu, bird flu, and pandemic flu are not the same. Seasonal Influenza, more commonly known as the Flu, is a contagious, respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses and spread from person to person. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Most people have some immunity, and a vaccine is available. In a typical year, 36,000 deaths in the U.S. and 500,000 deaths worldwide result from seasonal flu. The best way to prevent this illness is by getting a flu vaccination. Differences Between Seasonal and Pandemic Flu Bird flu (or avian influenza) is caused by influenza viruses that occur naturally among wild birds. The H5N1 variant is the influenza strain that is deadly to domestic fowl and can be transmitted from birds to humans. This type of bird flu has not yet been found in the U.S. There is no human immunity and no vaccine available. For more information see the World Health's Organization Avian influenza Fact sheet. Pandemic flu occurs when there is a major change in the genetic make up of an influenza virus. This new human flu virus causes a global outbreak, or pandemic, of serious illness. Because there is little natural immunity, the disease can spread easily from person-to-person, and all humans are susceptible. Currently, there is no pandemic flu and no vaccine is available.
Measures to limit the spread of the flu: Infection Control for persons with flu symptoms include:
When we talk about pandemics we know one thing – the impact will be widespread. As a community we will need to take non-medical steps to reduce the impact of a pandemic. This is especially important since the development and deployment of a vaccine is likely to take months. Further, we can't know for sure whether anti-viral medications like Tamiflu will work. Planning now can help the entire community reduce the effects of a pandemic, or any other emergency situation. Pandemic Preparation Checklists Make a Plan History tells us that pandemics happen; science tells us it's time to develop a plan. Health officials around the world recommend that schools, families, and businesses prepare a Pandemic Influenza plan. You can visit the American Red Cross Web site for guidance in preparing one; visit the federal government's Pandemic Influenza web site for planning tools. Build a Kit Every household should assemble a disaster supplies kit and keep it current. Stock a supply of water, food, and other essentials. During a pandemic you may not be able to get to a store. Even if you can get to a store, it may be out of supplies because of a disruption in transportation services. Public utilities may also be interrupted. Stocking up now can be useful in other types of emergencies, such as power outages and natural disasters. Store foods that:
Practice Good hygiene habits and Stay healthy Take common sense steps to limit the spread of germs. Make good hygiene a habit.
Make sure your family's immunizations are up-to-date. Quit smoking, improve your diet, exercise regularly and get regular medical check-ups. Get Informed Knowing the facts is the best preparation. Contact public health to learn the importance of planning and preparing. If a pandemic occurs, having accurate and reliable information will be critical. Group presentations, planning materials, and other resources are available. You may find it difficult to work Your employer may ask you to stay home if you or a family member is sick. Now is the time to start the conversation with your employer about whether you'll be able to work from home. What are the company policies on sick leave? What would happen if your income is reduced or lost completely because your employer is forced to close? Schools may be closed for a long time In Idaho each school district is responsible for planning for a pandemic event. What is the plan at your children's schools? Talk with the school nurse, teachers, administrators and parent-teacher organizations. What plans are in place if health officials determine that schools should be closed? You may have to plan some home learning activities and exercises. Pandemic Flu School Preparation Other sources for reliable information: FEMA Idaho Health & Welfare Pandemic Flu.gov Ready.gov American Red Cross World Health Organization |
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