Avian Flu . . The movie and the reality! Anyone out there see the ABC TV flick this week about avian flu? I did (though most Americans watched American Idol and frankly, I should've too). First the good news. Raising awareness about avian flu as a potential individual and public health threat is a good thing. However, some of the messages and approach could scare rather than inform. What do YOU need to know?
- Avian flu (H5N1 strain) to date has not shown person-to-person transmission
- You can't get it from eating chicken or poultry - as always cook it thoroughly.
- Flu prevention, of all types, starts with personal hygiene (handwashing frequently, covering face when sneezing) and immunization.
- There is no specific effective vaccine but scientists worldwide are working on it
- All of the estimates of illness, deaths and economic impact are just that - estimates. Any change in the virus might also change the accuracy of the impact.
- Yes, international spread of flu can be rapid and is being closely monitored.
- Early identification may allow us to use some traditional public health measures - "quarantine" but practically speaking, this may not be effective. A common sense reduction in public gatherings would be prudent to minimize person-to-person contact.
- Special "preventive medications" such as Tamiflu are not recommended and shouldn't be stockpiled. It isn't clear how effective they are.
- Yes, there may be demands on the business community with increased absenteeism and health care system.
- If you've got chronic medications or medical needs, its advisable to have a supply
- The just released report from the US government on flu planning and other resources can be accessed through the website http://www.pandemicflu.gov/planguide/checklist.html
Let's be informed and prepared responsibly, not hysterically, about the avian flu.
Dr Mike