Recently, many types of flu have popped up in the media – seasonal flu, avian flu, pandemic flu. Do you know the difference? Are they the same? Why should you care? The information and links below answer these questions and many more.
Pandemic Flu
Pandemic flu is a global outbreak of a novel (new) flu virus. It causes serious human illness and spreads easily from person to person because there is no previous exposure and immunity. Historical examples of pandemic flu include the “Spanish flu” of 1918, “Asian flu” of 1957, and “Hong Kong flu” of 1968. Medical and public health officials cannot say what type of flu virus will cause the next pandemic, but many have stated that history shows there will be another pandemic.
Businesses, individuals, and families should prepare now because up to 30% of our population could experience illness and about 30-40% may have to stay home due to illness or caring for an ill family member. If history repeats itself, healthy people may be at increased risk for serious complications. For more information on pandemic flu and how to prepare your business and family:
· Illinois Department of Public Health – Pandemic Flu