What is pandemic flu?
A flu (influenza) pandemic is an outbreak of a new flu virus that
spreads around the world. The virus will spread easily from person to
person, mostly through coughing and sneezing. Because the virus is new to
people, everyone will be at risk of getting it. Pandemic flu is different
from seasonal flu, in that it is unpredictable, could last a long time,
and could have a major impact on daily life. There is no vaccine yet for
pandemic flu. To learn more about the difference between seasonal and
pandemic influenza, go to
Seasonal vs. Pandemic Flu.Has there ever been a flu pandemic?
Pandemics have occurred throughout history, three times in the 20th
century alone. The
"Spanish flu,"
in
1918-19, caused the highest number of known influenza deaths. More than
500,000 people died in the United States, and up to 50 million people may
have died worldwide. Many people died within the first few days after
infection, and others died of secondary complications. Nearly half of
those who died were young, healthy adults. In 1957-58, the "Asian
flu," caused about 70,000 deaths in the United States and in 1968-69, the
"Hong Kong" flu caused about 34,000 deaths. To learn more about the
three pandemics and several "pandemic threats" that have occurred, go to:
Pandemics and Pandemic Threats since 1900. Read about
The Great Pandemic of 1918 in New Jersey.
Can it happen again?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health
experts say it is not a question of IF a pandemic will occur, but WHEN it
will occur. Experts are concerned that the virus that causes bird flu (or
avian flu) could change and cause a pandemic.
What is
being done to prepare for a pandemic?
Planning efforts have taken place over the past several years at the
federal, state, county and local levels. The Long Beach Island Health
Department is working closely with the Ocean County Health Department and
the New Jersey Department of Health & Senior Services to
address issues such as surveillance (detecting outbreaks of
influenza that might cause a pandemic),
risk
communication (providing clear and simple information to the
public) and mass
vaccination.
What can individuals do to prepare for a pandemic?
Preparing now
may make it easier for you and your family during a pandemic.
During a pandemic, you may need to stay home for an extended period of
time. Stock up on food, medicines, and supplies to make it easier to stay
at home. Improve your health habits now to lower your risk of infection
and slow the spread of disease during a pandemic. Plan for what you will do if schools are
dismissed, if you can’t go to work, or if a family member becomes sick and
needs care.
Use the checklists below to start preparing for pandemic influenza:
Get Flu Ready New Jersey
Pandemic Flu
Planning Checklist for Individuals and Families
Family Emergency Health Information Sheet
Pandemic
Influenza: What You Should Know Now
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