Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Other Treatments for Pandemic Flu?
Antiviral medications can be used to treat and/or prevent Influenza A viruses. However, flu strains can become resistant to antiviral medications. For example, only one antiviral medication works against the H5N1 Avian Flu virus identified in human patients. The supply of this antiviral medication is very limited worldwide, and no pharmaceutical company in the United States manufactures it.

If a Pandemic Flu Occurs, will people be isolated or quarantined?

Although the Leavenworth County Health Department has the legal authority to quarantine individuals, they are not recommending quarantine at this time. The Health Department is recommending people use social distancing.

What is the difference between social distancing, quarantine and isolation?

Social distancing can include restricting or cancelling events and the closure of buildings. Depending on the situation, examples of cancellations and building closures might include cancellation of public events (concerts, sports events, movies, plays) and closure of recreational facilities (community swimming pools, youth clubs, gymnasiums). Closure of office buildings, stores, schools, and public transportation systems may be feasible community containment measures during a pandemic. All of these have significant impact on the community and workforce, however, and careful consideration should be focused on their potential effectiveness, how they can most effectively be implemented, and how to maintain critical supplies and infrastructure while limiting community interaction.

Quarantine means you have been exposed to a contagious illness but you are not sick. If you are quarantined, you should stay home until the risk of getting sick is over and you should monitor yourself for signs of illness.

If you are placed in isolation, you are considered sick. You must stay separated from others until you can no longer spread an illness. You may either have to stay in a hospital, healthcare facility or at home. You will have to be cared for by people wearing gloves, masks and protective clothing to lessen the chance of spreading the illness.

Quarantine and isolation are usually voluntary, but may be required by public health agencies in certain circumstances.

What's New

NEW! The Leavenworth County Health Department is offering a drive-thru, flu shot clinic on Thursday, October 23 from 9 a.m. to 1.p.m. at 10th Avenue Park. For further information view our FAQs or call (913) 250-2000 for more information. Find out more & view our consent form online.

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