PANDEMIC 101
A brief guide to influenza, pandemic influenza, avian influenza and pandemic planning in Waterloo Region
What is influenza?
Influenza (commonly know as 'the flu') is a contagious virus that circulates on a seasonal basis, usually from October to April, causing outbreaks of respiratory illness. People who get the flu may experience several symptoms including: fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, physical exhaustion, cough, sore throat and runny or stuffy nose. Most healthy individuals are able to recover from the flu, but certain segments of the population, like the elderly and medically vulnerable, may experience further complications. In some cases the flu can be fatal.
What is an influenza pandemic?
An influenza pandemic (or 'pandemic') occurs when a strain of the flu virus changes in composition, becomes highly contagious, spreads easily from person to person and moves quickly around the world. Because the population is not immune to the new virus, it will affect more people and cause higher rates of illness. There were three pandemics in the 20th century. While no one knows when the next pandemic will occur, most experts believe we are overdue. It is not possible to stop the spread of a pandemic once it starts, but it may be possible to slow its spread and minimize the impact.
What is the difference between seasonal and pandemic influenza? INFLUENZA
Severe in the very old and the very young Seasonal – occurs in the winter Normal flu mortality (deaths) – 4,000 to 8,000 per year in Canada Illness usually last one to two weeks Usually just one wave of illness per season Vaccine available before each season based on common circulating strain Circulates on a seasonal basis Viruses change slightly throughout the season
PANDEMIC INFLUENZA
May be severe in all age groups Can occur at any time of the year Higher levels of mortality (deaths) Patients may be sicker for a longer period of time More than one wave of illness Vaccine may not be available for four to six months, and supply will be limited Spreads rapidly throughout the world New circulating virus; population has little or no immunity
Pandemic 101
What is avian influenza?
Avian influenza (or 'bird flu') is a virus that affects all species of birds but can, less commonly, infect mammals such as pigs and humans. A strain that is currently circulating (H5N1) causes a more serious illness, especially in poultry. Over the past year, there have been confirmed H5N1 outbreaks in poultry flocks and migratory birds in Asia, Europe, Africa and the Middle East.
What is Waterloo Region doing to prepare for an influenza pandemic?
Region of Waterloo Public Health, in consultation with its community stakeholders, is completing a local pandemic influenza response and recovery plan — the Community Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Plan (CPIPP). The CPIPP will contain various preparedness and response tools and guidelines that can be used by local governments, community stakeholders, and organizations during a pandemic. The document will also clarify how local resources will be mobilized during an event, and who is responsible for each task.
Why are public health experts concerned about avian influenza?
The World Health Organization is worried that an avian influenza virus and a human influenza virus might mix, or the avian flu virus could change in another way, resulting in a new strain of influenza that can be easily passed from person to person. There have been rare instances where humans contracted avian influenza; however, these cases occurred in individuals in direct contact with infected birds.
What can individuals and families do to prepare?
The best way to protect yourself against all forms of influenza is to develop healthy habits: When you cough or sneeze, cough into your upper arm or sleeve, or use a tissue. DO NOT use your hands. Throw out the tissue once you are finished. DO NOT re-use the tissue. Wash your hands with warm soap and water immediately after coughing or sneezing. If you are not near a sink, use an alcohol-based hand cleaner. Wash your hands regularly throughout the day, especially before handling and eating food. Keep your immune system healthy. Eat well, exercise regularly and get plenty of rest. Get your annual flu vaccination. Be informed. Understand that a pandemic can occur and what impact it will have on your friends and family. Also determine how you might help each other during that time.
How does influenza (including pandemic influenza) spread?
When you cough or sneeze, you spray tiny droplets that can move up to one metre (three feet) through the air and land on other people or surfaces. These droplets contain millions of germs and are the cause of infections such as colds and the 'flu'. People become infected when they breathe in the germs or when their hands come into contact with germs that are on surfaces (such as toys, utensils, handrails). The flu virus can live on hard, flat surfaces for up to 48 hours. If you touch something after someone has coughed on it and rub your eyes, nose, or mouth you can infect yourself.
Pandemic 101