Preparing for the Avian Flu Pandemic

The influenza virus has been around for centuries, and every year, it predictably strikes, with new strains replacing the old and rendering vaccines useless. Most flu strains are easily fought off by the human immune system, but sometimes, flu strains can arise that we have no immunities to. The avian flu is one such strain, and in this article, we'll help to inform you about the risk of a global influenza pandemic that we are facing, letting you know what you need to do to prepare.

In order for an influenza pandemic to occur, three steps need to take place. The first step is the discovery of an influenza strain that humans do not have built-up immunities to. That step has already taken place, as we've identified the H5N1 strain as a very real threat. The next step necessary for a pandemic is the spreading of the disease to humans from an outside source. That too has taken place, and over 200 reports of avian flu cases in humans have been filed. The final step that needs to take place in order for a pandemic to occur is a mutation of the virus so that it can easily spread from human to human. While that step has not yet occurred, the threat looms as more and more cases of H5N1 are popping up across the globe.

One thing that you should consider when preparing for a possible pandemic is the stockpile of antiviral drugs. Drugs such as Tamiflu are useful in the fight against influenza since they stop the virus's ability to replicate, limiting the amount of damage it can do. While doctors are unsure about how efficient the drug will be when it comes to dealing with the avian flu, it never hurts to be prepared. Also, be sure that your family is familiar with the proper steps of hygiene that can help to prevent the spread of the sickness; educate them on the idea that the flu is spread through coughs and sneezes, and let them know that they should wash their hands on a regular basis. Also, make sure that they are aware that they shouldn't touch their eyes, nose, or mouth without having clean hands, as that is one way that the illness can spread.

When it comes to dealing with the bird flu specifically, be sure to let your children know that they need to avoid any sick or dead birds that they see when playing outside. Any dead birds that you find, you should bury, being sure to employ proper safety techniques to avoid contamination. If your area is affected with bird flu, do not prepare poultry to eat, as you may become contaminated while preparing the food. If flu symptoms arise in a member of your family, be sure to keep them from contaminating others and take them to a doctor immediately to get some advice on what to do. By preparing yourself for the pandemic, you'll be better off when the inevitable threat occurs.