Facts you need to know:

What is Seasonal Flu?

Seasonal Flu refers to several common strains (specific forms) of flu virus that go around each year, mainly in fall and winter.  A yearly shot (vaccine) can help prevent the flu.

 You Can Take Steps In Preventing Seasonal Flu!

     Ø       Wash your hands frequently

Ø       Get a flu shot

Ø       Cover coughs and sneezes

Ø       Avoid touching your nose, mouth and eyes

Ø       Practice healthy habits such as: eating healthy foods, exercising, reducing stress, getting plenty of rest

Ø       Stay home from school, work, or social events if you have a fever and respiratory symptoms

What is Bird (Avian) Flu?  

Bird Flu refers to flu strains that mainly infect poultry and some wild birds.  If bird flu were to evolve in a way that let it spread to people, and then spread easily between people, a pandemic could begin.

What is Pandemic Flu? 

A “pandemic” is a disease that spreads all over the world and affects large numbers of people.  It refers to when a new flu strain starts spreading easily and quickly around the world.  Depending on the strength of the strain, it can cause:

Ø       Many people to get sick at once

Ø       Severe illness and many deaths --- producing a vaccine for the new flu strain will take time

Ø       A short supply of food, goods and services  

Ø       Medical or government services to become overloaded, and/or travel to be restricted, for example

Flu pandemics have happened before.  They are likely to happen again.  No one can say when.  A lot is being done to prepare.

  Chesapeake Public Schools’ staff members have been working closely with both local and state health departments in the development of a Pandemic Influenza Response Plan to ensure that the school division and its key designated staff are prepared to respond effectively and efficiently in providing essential operations and critical support during an influenza pandemic.  Information has been disseminated to staff and students on tips for prevention of flu and preparation for a pandemic.  This planning is ongoing.   For additional information, please call 382-8631.

Sites from which this information was obtained and for additional information:

http://www.pandemicflu.gov

http://www.redcross.org

www.vdh.virginia.gov/pandemicflu

www.vdh.virginia.gov/pandemicflu/PanfluDVD.asp

http://www.cdc.gov/flu/school/

      http://answers.pandemicflu.gov/cgi-bin/pandemicflu.cfg/php/enduser/std_alp.php            

For additional information, please contact Mr. Tom Cupitt, Public Information Officer/Ombudsman, at 547-1033, or e-mail him at cupitto@cps.k12.va.us.