Pandemic Flu

While health officials don’t know when a worldwide influenza (flu) pandemic may occur, Multnomah County Health Department is taking steps to prepare. We cannot prevent a pandemic. However, planning now can help minimize severe health, social and economic impacts.

What Is Pandemic Flu?

Seasonal Flu occurs every year. It is a significant health problem, but not a disaster.

Pandemic Flu is a worldwide, human epidemic of a new influenza virus. A pandemic flu may create a massive health crisis, depending on the severity of the virus.

Avian Flu affects birds, and sometimes spreads from birds to humans. Avian flu viruses can mutate and spread from person to person.

Why Is this Important?

It is important to know that we are not currently experiencing a human flu pandemic. The avian (bird) flu virus (H5N1) that has been in the news is currently circulating among birds in Europe, Asia and Africa. This virus occasionally infects humans. Public health leaders are concerned that this virus could become the source of the next human pandemic if it gains the ability to pass easily from person to person. There are no vaccines against emerging strains of human influenza, and people would have little, if any, immunity. A flu pandemic could sweep around the world in very short time, causing serious illness and community disruption.

What Can I Do?

Individuals, families, schools, businesses, health care providers, social service and faith-based groups all play a key role in planning for and responding to a public health emergency.

Where Can I Find More Information?

Department of Health & Human Resources www.pandemicflu.gov
Spanish | Chinese | Vietnamese

Questions?

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention Hotline
800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636)
TTY: 888-232-6348

Multnomah County Health Department
503-988-3030 ext. 25698

Emergency Preparedness Pocket Guide

Know what to do and what not to do. Slips into a drawer, purse, or glove compartment for easy reference. Free copies available in English, Spanish, Russian and Vietnamese for distribution at your workplace, school or organization.
Order copies…

Ordering Guidelines:

• Within Oregon, outside Multnomah County: limited to 50 guides
• Out of state: limited to 1 pocket guide
• Orders over 800 copies: call 503-988-3030 ext. 25698 for info and to arrange pick up.