(Last Updated: Mar. 14, 2007)
What is Pandemic Flu?
Pandemic flu is a worldwide outbreak of a new flu virus for which there is little or no protection in humans. Scientists and health professionals are concerned that the current virus in birds (avian flu) may develop into the next human pandemic.
Since 1968, there has not been a pandemic flu outbreak any where in the world.
Pandemic flu can spread easily from person-to-person and may cause serious illness and death. A long, widespread outbreak of the disease could mean changes in many areas of our lives. Schools might need to close for a period of time to slow the spread. Public transportation could be limited and air flights may be cancelled. Because many people are expected to become ill, many businesses and public services may have to close or limit hours due to large numbers of employee absences.
It is very important to plan ahead. Federal, state and local governments are taking steps to better prepare for and respond to a pandemic. Individuals also need to take action to be better prepared.
Here’s what you need to know about pandemic flu:
- It hasn’t happened often – only three times in the 20th century.
- Pandemics are usually caused by the appearance of a new influenza virus in humans to which many have little or no immunity.
- Healthy people may be at risk for serious problems.
- The medical community will be overwhelmed.
- Current flu vaccines may or may not be effective. An effective pandemic flu vaccine may take months to produce.
- The number of deaths could be high; worldwide it could be millions.
- Big impact on the community. There could be travel restrictions, school closures, business closures or limited hours, and cancellations of public gatherings.
- Pandemic flu could have a big impact on U.S. and world economy.
What to do
Alameda County Health Office Dr. Anthony Iton Answers Questions About Pandemic Influenza
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Resources
Continuity Plans
- Pandemic Influenza Continuity of Operations Guide & Template For Alameda County and City Agencies: Updated Dec. 14, 2006 PDF | WORD
- Pandemic Influenza Business Continuity Guide & Template For Alameda County Businesses: Updated Dec. 14, 2006 PDF | WORD
Pandemic Influenza Planning Checklists
Website links:
PowerPoint Slides from Presentations
- Pandemic Influenza Planning & Health Care Services: Dr. Muntu Davis, ACPHD Deputy Health Officer: September 2006 PDF (2.8 MB)
- School Preparedness for Pandemic Flu - Dr. Muntu Davis, ACPHD Deputy Health Officer: September 2006 PDF (1.9 MB)
- Facilitating An Effective Public Health Response to Pandemic Flu - Dr. Muntu Davis, ACPHD Deputy Health Officer: April 2006 PDF (1.4 MB)
- Emergency Response Planning for Child Care Providers: U.S. Department of Health & Human Services PDF 3.5 MB)
- Local Health Department Guide to Pandemic Influenza Planning: National Association of City & County Health Officials PDF (0.4 MB)
- Pandemic Influenza Update & Local Preparedness Challenges: Anthony Iton, MD, Director, Alameda County Public Health - Fall 2006 PDF (3.9 MB)
Publications
Contact us:
Bioterrorism/Public Health Emergency Preparedness Program
1000 Broadway / Fifth Floor
Oakland, CA 94607
(510) 258-7023
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