Pandemic Flu is a possible form of influenza that could spread rapidly among people and cause serious illness or death.
The most serious flu pandemic in the United States was in 1918, killing over 600,000 people. Less severe pandemics have occurred in
1957 and 1968. Because flu viruses are constantly changing, H5N1 avian influenza has the potential to change so that it spreads
easily among people, becoming a pandemic.
.
Video: Interview with a 1918 influenza pandemic survivor
Courtesy of the Alabama Department of Public Health
Avian Flu (H5N1 avian influenza, or Bird Flu) has affected flocks of wild and domestic birds overseas.
Avian influenza is highly contagious among birds, usually killing those it infects. There are no reported cases
among birds in the United States.
Avian flu has spread to some humans who work or live closely with birds. About 250 people worldwide have died from H5N1 avian flu as of March 2009,
mostly in Indonesia, Vietnam, Egypt, China and Thailand. No human cases have occurred in the United States, or in any part of North or South America.
General Information
PandemicFlu.gov The official U.S. government website on pandemic flu and avian influenza.
Trust for America's Health Reports Recommendations for policymakers, and brochures for families, medical providers, businesses, and community leaders who want to learn more about preparation and the impact of a flu pandemic.
