Flu Preparedness

Flu is known by various names and are defined as follows:

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 can be transmitted from birds to humans. There is no human immunity and no vaccine is available.

Pandemic flu is 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.

Pandemic Flu/Emergency Preparedness

The potential for a pandemic flu exists, because of that the Office of Emergency Services wants you to learn about this possible health threat.  Please join us on a quarterly basis, the second Wednesday of the month, from 6:30 - 8:30 PM, at 700 All America Way to learn how you can prepare for the pandemic flu and other natural hazards.  There is no charge for this training.  Our next meetings in 2010 are as follows: April 14th, July 14th, and Oct 13th.

Pandemic Flu Resource Sites

U.S Department of Health Avian & Pandemic Flu Information

Santa Clara County Public Health Pandemic Flu Information

Center for Disease Control Avian Flu Information