Pandemic influenza is a worldwide outbreak of disease that occurs when a new influenza “A” virus, to which people have little or no immunity, appears in humans and then spreads easily from person to person. The ways to avoid spreading such a virus would be the same as for the seasonal flu: wash your hands, cover your coughs and sneezes, and stay home if you are sick.

Three major influenza pandemics swept the globe during the 20th century, and no one knows when the next pandemic may strike.

If a new and severe strain of influenza A virus were to begin spreading around the world, Kansas would not be spared from its impact. It has been estimated that a medium-level pandemic could cause, in Kansas alone:

• 2,500 deaths
• 5,000 hospitalizations
• 500,000 outpatient visits
• 1 million cases of illness

Here are some simple steps you can take to prepare yourself or your family for pandemic influenza. For more information on preparing for a pandemic, visit www.pandemicflu.gov/plan/individual/checklist.html.

• Individuals/families
• Learn to control the spread of flu viruses:
• Wash your hands
• Stay home when you’re sick
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze
• Avoid crowds during outbreaks
• Get a yearly flu vaccination
   
• Participate in emergency preparedness efforts in your community. Contact your county emergency manager, the American Red Cross or your local health department for more information.
   
• Remain informed. Pay attention to national and world events, and learn about ways you would receive instructions during an emergency, such as the Emergency Broadcast System. Purchase a NOAA Weather Alert radio, which will provide information not only about weather emergencies, but any widespread emergency affecting your community.
   
• Organizations
• Preparing for Pandemic Influenza: Recommendations for Protocol Development for 9-1-1 Personnel (PSAPs) (.pdf)
• Home Health Care During and Influenza Pandemic: Issues and Resources
• Pandemic Influenza Information for Transportation Sector