Avian Flu

Our Newest Worry

How does Seasonal Flu differ from Pandemic Flu?

Seasonal Flu:

• Seasonally
• Immunity is built up from previous exposure
• Those at risk are the very young, elderly, in poor health
• Health systems can usually meet the needs
• Vaccine is based on known strains; available for flu season
• Adequate supplies of anti-virals
• Symptoms are fever, cough, runny nose, muscle pain
• Deaths average around 36,000 a year in the U.S.

Pandemic Flu:

• Rarely happens
• No previous exposure; little or no immunity
• Everyone, including healthy people are at risk
• Health systems will be overwhelmed
• Vaccine probably not available in the early stages
• Anti-virals may be in limited supply
• Symptoms are more severe; complications more frequent
• Deaths in the 1918 outbreak were more than 675,000 in U.S.

What Can You Do Now?

Stay Healthy:

• Get a pneumonia shot to prevent this severe flu complication.
• Get seasonal flu shots. They won't protect you against the
  pandemic influenza, but they can help you stay healthy and
  protect your lungs from damage by the regular flu.
• Make good hygiene a habit to avoid germs. Wash hands with
  soap and water; cover your coughs and sneezes, using your
  upper sleeve if you don't have a tissue; stay home if you are
  sick.
• Maintain your overall health to improve your body's ability to
  fight off illness. Eat a balanced diet, drink plenty of water,
  exercise on a regular basis and get plenty of rest.

Keep Informed:

• Keep track of latest news and medical advice.