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 Experts predict that a human influenza pandemic is quite possible, although exactly when it will occur is unknown. It could appear at any time of year, not necessarily within the usual flu season. Once the new virus reaches the UK, it is likely to spread throughout the country within a matter of weeks. The Government estimates that the virus will affect around 25% of the population and that many people may die. Currently, H5N1 is a bird-to-bird transmission strain however experts have stated that with continued international travel and exposure to other species, including other wild animals, pets and farm animals, the chances of the virus mutating into a human pandemic strain is real. |
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Click here to find out how the Government is preparing for a pandemic influenza. GET INFORMED Knowing the facts is the best protection. If a pandemic occurs, having accurate and reliable information will be critical. Reliable, accurate, and timely information is available from the World Health Organisation and the Department of Health. The Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) provides regular updates on the current situation in the UK and advice to bird owners, those who work with poultry or game birds and those who find any dead birds. If you find any dead wild gulls, waders, ducks, geese or swans or ten or more dead birds of any species, contact DEFRA’s Helpline (08459 33 55 77) and choose the avian influenza option which is open from 9 am to 5 pm, 7 days a week. Your health care provider (e.g. your doctor, practice nurse or health visitor) will be able to provide you with some information about influenza. In England and Wales you can also get advice about pandemic flu from NHS Direct by clicking here, on digital satellite television by pressing the interactive button on your remote control, or by telephoning 0845 4647. The equivalent service in Scotland is NHS 24 which you can access by clicking here or by telephoning 08454 24 24 24. Other sources of information include local and national radio, news reports on television, newspapers and other sources of printed and web-based information. In the event of a flu pandemic, there will be announcements on the television, radio and in national newspapers. These will tell you how to protect yourself and your family and what to do if you think you are infected. |
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