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Understanding Flu

Seasonal (or common) flu is a respiratory illness that can be transmitted person to person. Most people have some immunity, and a vaccine is available.

Avian (or bird) flu is caused by influenza viruses that occur naturally among wild birds. The H5N1 variant is deadly to domestic fowl and, in rare cases, can be transmitted from birds to humans. There is currently no human immunity and no vaccine available.

A pandemic flu is a virulent human flu that causes a global outbreak, or pandemic, of serious illness. Because there is little natural immunity, the disease can spread easily from person to person. Currently, there is no pandemic flu.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has produced a Public Heath Emergency Toolkit to assist schools in dealing with issues surrounding pandemic influenza and infectious diseases.  To view the toolkit, please click on the following link:

In order to view these view these files, Adobe Reader is required. If you do not have Adobe Reader, please download a free copy here.

Resources:

American Red Cross Home Care for Pandemic Flu (.pdf)
Avian Influenza Infection in Humans
Keep Our School Healthy Flyer (.pdf)
Key Facts about Influenza and Influenza Vaccine (.pdf)
PandemicFlu.gov
Pandemic Flu Planning Checklist for Individuals and Families (.pdf)
Pandemic Influenza: Characteristics & Challenges (.pdf)
Preventing the Spread of Influenza in Child Care Settings (.pdf)
Respiratory Hygiene/Cough Etiquette in Healthcare Settings (.pdf)
Stop Disease Flyer (.pdf)
Stopping Germs at Home, Work, and School (.pdf)
WHO - Avian Influenza Frequently Asked Questions
WHO - Cumulative Number of Confirmed Human Cases of Avian Influenza A/(H5N1)

Sources: