Pandemic Flu
An influenza pandemic is a global disease outbreak. It occurs when a new influenza virus emerges for which people have little or no immunity, and for which there is no vaccine. The disease spreads easily person-to-person, causes serious illness, and can sweep across the country and around the world in a very short period of time.
It is difficult to predict when the next influenza pandemic will occur or how severe it will be. If a pandemic does occur, it is likely to be a prolonged and widespread outbreak that could require temporary changes in many areas of society, such as schools, work, transportation and other public services. An informed and prepared public can take appropriate actions to decrease their risk during a pandemic.
For authoritative, one-stop access to the U.S. Government's pandemic flu information, visit:
Pandemic Flu Background
Plans and Policy
Businesses and Employers
Avian Flu
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