Pandemic influenza

An influenza pandemic occurs when a highly infectious new strain emerges that humans have no immunity to.

During a pandemic, the virus spreads rapidly around the world causing high rates of illness and death – and resulting in severe social and economic disruption. History has shown that pandemics tend to occur every 10-50 years.

This site has information on how to prepare for an influenza pandemic, for:

• Health professionals
• Businesses
• Government
• Community

Avian influenza
Also known as ‘bird flu’, avian influenza is an infectious disease of birds caused by the influenza virus. Since 2003 a virulent strain of avian influenza (H5N1) has infected birds in a series of outbreaks in Asia and Europe. Currently the virus does not easily pass from birds to humans and there is very limited evidence of human-to-human transmission. For more information visit:

Infectious Diseases Epidemiology and Surveillance

Better Health Channel

Seasonal influenza
Seasonal influenza is caused by a virus that usually attacks the nose, throat and lungs. Common symptoms include high fever, headache, weakness, coughing, a sore throat and aches and pains. The infection typically lasts for a week and is usually transmitted by coughing and sneezing. For more information see:

Fact Sheet - Seasonal/Avian/Pandemic influenza (flu) – Information for the general public (67kb, pdf)
Available from the Infectious Diseases Epidemiology and Surveillance website.

Better Health Channel

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