Avian influenza refers to flu strains that commonly infect wild birds (especially waterfowl) and poultry.  Sometimes, a flu strain evolves with the capability of infecting other species of animals even humans.  Generally, bird flu is transmitted to humans only through close contact with infected poultry.  It does not spread easily from human to human.  If human to human transmission occurs, a pandemic could be triggered. 

At the present time, health professionals around the world are keeping tabs on one particular avian flu virus - H5N1.  The H5N1 avian flu virus is important because it kills large numbers of domestic birds it infects, is spread by migratory birds, has shown some ability to infect humans and, like all flu viruses, is continually evolving.  At the present time, individuals who have contracted avian flu were exposed through direct, unprotected exposure to infected domestic birds (chickens).  There is no avian flu in the United States at this time.

During "flu season" - generally November to March in the U.S. - several common flu strains circulate.  This is the flu with which most people are familiar with.  The flu is a contagious respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe symptoms.  The yearly flu vaccine (flu shot) helps prevent the flu.  Some people may have immunity to the flu because it is similar to other strains that have circulated in previous years. 

For information on the yearly flu shot available from the Macomb County Health Department, click here.

Experts believe that the world is closer to another flu pandemic than at any time since 1968.  The WHO uses a series of six phases of pandemic alert as a way to inform the world of the seriousness of the current flu pandemic threat. 

The world is currently in phase 3: a new influenza virus subtype is causing disease in humans, but is not yet spreading easily between humans. 

It is very likely that there will be another flu pandemic.  Unfortunately, no one can predict exactly when.  Together, we can help minimize the effects of a flu pandemic through PLANNING, PREPARATION and COOPERATION.  There are simple steps we can take right now:

• Learn what effects a flu pandemic can have
• Learn about vaccines, medications and treatment for the flu
• Learn how to help prevent infection by practicing healthy habits
• Learn how to handle birds and other animals
• Learn how to safely prepare food
• Learn about necessary travel precautions
• Learn how to prepare for a flu pandemic, including how to create an emergency kit
• Learn about other resources available
• Learn how the authorities may communicate with us during a flu pandemic

Pandemic preparations are underway by all levels of the government.  The Macomb County Health Department (MCHD) has a flu pandemic response plan in place.  The State of Michigan also has a plan in place.  The federal government has created a national strategy for preparation and response and is providing funding and guidance for all levels of government.  Schools and child care facilities, as well as other businesses, are encouraged to have a plan ready in case of a flu pandemic.  Health care providers can take special precautions to prepare for a flu pandemic. The best plan is to be ready in advance!