How to Prevent an Influenza Pandemic

Influenza is a viral infection, commonly called "the flu". It is contagious and can spread quickly. The particular family of viruses that cause the flu mutate quickly, which is why annual vaccinations are created. Vaccinations are not recommended for everyone, and they also may prove to be ineffective against the particular strains that ultimately spread among communities. There are additional steps that each person can take to ensure their own safety and that of their families, colleagues and friends. Though no one individual can single-handedly prevent a pandemic, awareness, preparation, and proper care can reduce the scope of an outbreak. We should all do our part.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Get informed. A pandemic disease is one that spreads across a large population. In the case of the flu, where symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe distress, even death, an outbreak is usually caused when a new form of an influenza virus appears. Understand that a pandemic is more severe than when a typical flu passes through a community. Fundamental services may be disrupted; otherwise healthy adults may be affected; and the healthcare industry could be overwhelmed.

2. Get vaccinated. Certain groups of individuals or occupations offer a higher risk of exposure. These include the young (under 19) or the slightly older (over 50), healthcare workers or anyone who cares for someone with a chronic medical condition, pregnant women, and people who live in nursing homes. Be advised that some people should not be vaccinated; and these include children under six months, people with an allergy to chicken eggs, someone who responded poorly to a previous vaccination, and anyone suffering an unrelated illness (get vaccinated once you are well again). For people over 65, your doctor may also recommend an additional pneumonia shot to prevent secondary infection.

3. Practice healthy habits. Wash your hands regularly and cover your mouth when you cough. Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, or nose when sick, as they more easily allow germs to spread. Stay home when you are sick, and avoid close contact with anyone who appears ill. Disinfect surfaces touched by an infected person. An influenza virus can live on a surface up to eight hours.

4. Ensure emergency preparedness. Unlike during a standard flu season, a pandemic flu might result in a temporary disruption of community services. Evaluate your family's needs, and store up to two weeks' worth of food and water. If possible, plan for a possible interruption in your ability to work. Financial preparation can be important to ensuring your family is as comfortable as possible during a crisis. Plan as well for entertaining any children who may be home for extended periods of time should a school or day care close. Both educational materials and toys should be part of your kit.

5. Don't panic. Federal, state and local officials are all implementing broader plans to protect their citizens, like ordering anti-viral medication in large volumes. They closely watch hospitals for signs of an outbreak and spend a lot of time planning ways to reduce physical contact to limit the scope of infection. Scientists are searching for better vaccines and better treatments. Following the steps listed above will help prepare you and protect your family. If enough people follow these simple guidelines, then we can all work together to reduce the likelihood of an influenza pandemic.

Resources

• US Government Flu Website