+ What do I need to know about Pandemic Flu?
Seasonal Flu + Avian/Swine Flu = Pandemic
Seasonal flu
Is caused by influenza viruses that affect people in the Northern Hemisphere from October to April and in Southern Hemisphere from May to September. People usually recover within a couple weeks without treatment. Deaths can occur with the elderly, young, or people with serious medical conditions. Annual vaccinations are available. The vaccine against ordinary influenza is 70-90% effective.
Avian flu
is found in birds and are caused by bird-specific influenza viruses. In rare instances it can infect humans who live and work closely with infected birds.
Swine flu
Is found in pigs and is caused by pig-specific influenza viruses. Many flu pandemic/ or epidemics are caused by pig influenza viruses that jump to humans.
Pandemic flu
Occurs every few decades, but at any time of year. Is caused by a new influenza virus that has mutated from human, bird, and/or pig influenza viruses.
What Do You do if you Catch Pandemic Flu?
Most people don't have symptoms but if you do they include:
- Fever, muscle pain and weakness, headache
- Tiredness, dry cough, sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose and diarrhoea and vomiting
- If you do get the Pandemic Flu, increase your fluid intake and get plenty of rest. Stay at home!!
- Some over the counter medications can help ease the symptoms of the Flu, but cannot cure it. There may also be a vaccine and antiviral medications available to help. Check with our website for the latest suggestions.
- If you have a chronic illness, such as heart, lung disease, diabetes, or cancer; or having difficulty getting around because of weakness; or pregnant, please see your doctor soon.
- If you are having problems breathing, staying awake or others think you seem confused, please get medical attention immediately.
Ryerson Health Center - 416-979-5070
Ontario Telehealth - 1-866-797-0000
Any questions? www.ryerson.ca/healthservices