Epidemic, pandemic -- we've heard these public health terms, but what do they mean in regards to a particular disease?
An epidemic describes the rapid spread of a disease, possibly a flu, that affects some or many people in a community or region at the same time.
A pandemic describes the outbreak of a disease, possibly a flu, that affects large numbers of people throughout the world and spreads rapidly.
These terms are not to be confused with seasonal flu, which is a common, contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses occurring every year. Seasonal flus affect an average of 5 percent to 20 percent of the U.S. population by causing mild to severe illness, and in some instances can lead to death.
Always follow the most current advice of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, the Illinois Department of Public Health, and your local health department. Click your county below:
In dealing with any flu outbreak, prevention is the key. If you are caring for a loved one during a flu epidemic or pandemic, it's important to take steps to protect yourself and others. Click these links for a specific subject area:
Prepare for an epidemic or pandemic flu
Are you at high risk for seasonal flu? How can you prevent the spread of flu symptoms? Click here to download a seasonal flu checklist from the Red Cross.
If a loved one falls ill during a flu outbreak, how can you help without getting sick yourself? Reference this two-page instruction sheet from the Red Cross
Arm yourself with knowledge. This two-page PDF contains useful Red Cross information about keeping your family safe during a flu outbreak.
Arm yourself with knowledge. This two-page PDF contains useful Red Cross information about keeping your family safe during a flu outbreak.
This three-page PDF fact sheet from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control will answer commonly asked questions about swine influenza.
Make a plan now for a serious flu outbreak designated an epidemic or pandemic by the CDC or state health officials. Figure out what you will do if members of your household have to stay home from work or school or stay separated from others for a period of time. Keep extra supplies of food, water, medications and a disaster supply kit on hand.
Pandemic flu caregiving supplies:
The flu virus is spread when contaminated droplets exit the mouth and nose of an infected person, and the virus comes in contact with others. These healthy habits will help keep you and others from getting and passing on an influenza virus.
A person with signs of the flu should stay home from work, school and errands and avoid contact with others. Follow these tips to protect yourself and others in your home and office:
* Keep everyone's personal items separate. All household members should avoid sharing computers, pens, papers, clothes, towels, sheets, blankets, food or eating utensils.
* Disinfect door knobs, switches, handles, toys and other surfaces that are commonly touched around the home or workplace.
DISINFECTANT CAN BE MADE FROM:
Mix up a fresh batch every time you use it.
Follow these steps for proper hand hygiene:
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can guard against infection when soap and water aren't available.
Call your health-care professional at the first sign of the flu. Watch for:
Keep a care log. Write down the date, time, fever, symptoms, medicines given and dosage. Make a new entry at least every four hours or when the symptoms change. Call your health-care professional again if you or a loved one has:
If you cannot reach your health-care professional, call 911 or a local emergency number for any of the signs below:
A person recovering from flu should have:
Dehydration occurs when the body loses too much water and it's not replaced quickly enough. It can be serious. Begin giving soothing drinks at the first signs of the flu.
In addition to plenty of liquids, give ice and light, easily digested foods, such as soup and broth.
If your loved one has diarrhea or vomiting, give fluids that contain electrolytes.
One person should be the caregiver. He or she may benefit by wearing a mask when giving care. To help reduce a fever:
After you have called your doctor or emergency number for a fever, continue to follow the home treatment recommendations above. If there is a delay in getting help, ask a health-care professional if you should start an additional dose of an alternate fever-reducing medication (acetaminophen, ibuprophen or aspirin) between the doses described on the label. Always continue to give plenty of fluids.
Many of the above recommendations are from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care or current public health advice. Seek advice from your health-care provider, the CDC and your local health department. As with all medications and treatments, there are side effects and potential complications. Seek professional advice from your health-care professional to make sure any medication or vaccination is appropriate to your health.
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