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Pandemic Influenza Downloads and Links |
KDHE Home - Health - BDCP - Immunization - Flu
Pandemic Influenza Information |
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has developed the Kansas Pandemic Influenza Preparedness and Response Plan. The plan calls for local, state and federal agencies, healthcare professionals, and the private sector to work together in a coordinated effort to maintain essential public services, preserve community health and protect the health and safety of Kansans. A summary of the Kansas plan can be found here. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Pandemic Influenza Plan provides a blueprint for preparing for the challenges that lie ahead for the state and the nation. For additional information on pandemic influenza, click the links below or visit www.pandemicflu.gov. What is pandemic influenza?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. The impact of pandemic influenzaIf 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:
Preparing for pandemic influenzaHere 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.
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