Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Swine (H151) Flu? Swine influenza (a.k.a. swine flu) is a respiratory illness commonly found in pigs caused by type A influenza viruses. Humans do not normally get swine flu unless they work closely with pigs. However, a new strain of swine flu has developed which has infected humans and can be spread from person to person.
What is the Avian (Bird) Flu? Avian Flu, officially known as H5N1, is an influenza strain that originated with wild migratory fowl, from which it received its name. Unlike the seasonal flu, to which most people have a resistance, H5N1 is a new and deadly strain that can infect even the young and healthy.
What is Leavenworth County Doing to Prepare?
Due to the possibility of a pandemic flu striking multiple locations simultaneously,
the Federal Government has shifted the responsibility for planning and
organization to local governments (cities and counties). This means the
Leavenworth County Health Department will be in charge of managing the
crisis with the help of each city in the County - Leavenworth, Lansing,
Tonganoxie, Basehor, Linwood and Easton. The City of Leavenworth is currently
doing everything it can to prepare for a possible pandemic but it will
not be able to administer to the needs of the entire population.
Pandemics normally cause large surges in the numbers of people requiring or seeking medical or hospital treatment, temporarily overwhelming health services. High rates of worker absenteeism can also interrupt other essential services, such as law enforcement, transportation and communications. The Health Department asks for residents’ cooperation in preparing for, and during, such a crisis. It is imperative that every family take responsibility to prepare as best they can to ensure their family’s well-being in the event of a pandemic.
What's New
Red Cross Pandemic Flu Home Care Brochure
Keep updated on the latest information on swine flu or other public health emergencies.
Do you have a plan for an emergency situation? Planning can help ensure that you and your family stay safe and have enough supplies in the event of a disaster. More >
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