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Flu Facts The flu, also known as influenza, is a contagious respiratory disease caused by different types (strains) of influenza viruses that is typically spread by air or by direct contact. In the United States, flu season begins every fall and ends every spring. The flu people get during this period is called seasonal flu. This type of flu virus is usually known and vaccines are developed and made available in advance of the predictable flu season. Pandemics are different from seasonal outbreaks of influenza. Seasonal outbreaks are caused by subtypes of influenza viruses that are already in existence among people, while pandemic outbreaks are caused by new subtypes or by subtypes that have never circulated among people. Public Health officials are particularly concerned about the new avian flu virus strain H5N1. Humans have no natural immunity or vaccine to resist the attack of this virus which can make those who become infected very sick. A new type of virus strikes every 10 to 40 years and is highly dangerous, causing a worldwide outbreak. The last pandemic influenza occurred in 1968 (Hong Kong flu pandemic) which resulted in about 34,000 deaths in the U.S. alone. For the last four years the “bird flu or “avian flu” virus H5N1 has been making headlines because there have been a few cases of people having direct or close contact with infected poultry contracting the disease. Avian flu has not yet been detected in the United States, but it is anticipated that it may appear in birds via the expected migratory routes of the Pacific Northwest. Please Note: Poultry remains safe to eat when safe cooking procedures are followed. Since a vaccine against the new virus would take a period of time to be developed (potentially six to nine months), and anti-virals may or may not be effective against the new strain, other more basic prevention methods must be rigorously applied in all settings. Please review the following hygiene precautions, known as “Respiratory Etiquette.” Respiratory Etiquette The primary strategies for preventing the transmission and spread of colds, seasonal and pandemic flu include the following methods:
Cover Coughs and Sneezes
Wash Hands Frequently
Clean commonly shared items Phones, toys, light switches, remote controls, toilet handles, doorknobs, faucets, handles, computer keyboards, mouse Keep sick people away from healthy people
Get your annual flu vaccine! For more information visit:
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