When a new flu virus spreads around the world, it is considered a pandemic. It is a virus that spreads quickly and infects the nose, throat, and lungs.
What is the difference between seasonal flu and a flu pandemic?
Typically, flu pandemics develop from a new virus that spreads from animals to people. Because it is a new virus, it can spread easily and quickly, causing wide-spread illness.
Am I protected if I’ve had a seasonal flu vaccine?
It is unlikely that a seasonal flu vaccine will protect you from a flu pandemic because vaccines help protect you from viruses that experts anticipate will make people sick. Any new virus that causes a flu pandemic is unlikely to be a virus that experts planned for.
How do I prepare for a flu pandemic ahead of time?
Keep a pandemic kit in every location you spend a lot of time: home, work, school, car, commute.
Make sure every person in your home or office has a flu pandemic kit.
Stock up on food, water, and medicine for at least 72-hours, preferably a full week. Remember, stores may close to keep their employees safely at home. Supplies may not be readily available.
Create and communicate an emergency plan for all family members and practice frequently.
Make a list of each family member’s health information, including medications; keep the list in each person’s pandemic kit.
How do I stop the spread of germs?
Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick.
If you become sick, stay home.
Do not return to work or school until your fever has been gone (without the aid of fever-reducing medicine).
Cover your nose or mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze; throw the tissue in the trash immediately.
Frequently wash your hands with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water is unavailable.
Keep germs out of your body by not touching your mouth, eyes, and nose.
What do I do if a flu pandemic happens?
Stayed informed. In the event of a flu pandemic near you, follow the advice of local officials regarding closures at schools, businesses, and public transportation locations.
