A pandemic is a global disease outbreak. A flu pandemic occurs when a new influenza virus emerges for which people have little or no immunity, and for which there is no vaccine. The disease spreads easily from person to person, causes serious illness and can sweep across the country and around the world in a very short time. More information can be found on the Department of Health website.

Pandemic Flu Key Facts Leaflet

In the event of a pandemic if you are ill, or think you may be ill, you will be advised to:

• Stay at home
• Contact the national flu line service – via which you will receive an assessment and be authorised antiviral medicine treatment if symptomatic (unless contraindicated)
• If your symptoms get worse after having contacted the flu line, contact your Local GP

Follow self care advice, including:

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Take medicines such as ibuprofen or aspirin to reduce fever and relieve your symptoms (do not give aspirin to children under 16)

To reduce risk of infection:

• Always carry tissues
• Always use a disposable tissue to cover your nose and mouth whenever you cough or sneeze
• Use tissues once and throw them into a bin as soon as you can
• Wash your hands regularly, especially after sneezing or coughing
• Anti-bacterial gel is a useful alternative, if you can’t wash your hands

Because a pandemic virus will be easily transmitted, these measures can only reduce the risk of spreading the disease and of infection, rather than prevent transmission or infection.

North East Lincolnshire Care Trust Plus is working with local GPs and other health and social care professionals to ensure there are plans in place in the event of a of a pandemic flu outbreak.

Pandemic Influenza Response Plan

The Government has a strategic national framework approach for responding to an influenza pandemic.  Published jointly by the Department of Health and the Cabinet Office, it provides background information and guidance to public and private organisations developing response plans. It updates and expands upon health advice and information contained in previous plans issued by UK health departments.

National Framework for Pandemic Influenza

Avian Flu ‘Bird Flu’

Avian influenza or 'bird flu' is a highly contagious disease of birds, caused by influenza A viruses. In birds, the viruses can present with a range of symptoms from mild illness and low mortality to a highly contagious disease with a near 100% fatality rate.

The Department of Health website provides more information about Avian Flu.