While there is currently NO pandemic influenza, preparation is our best protection. Unlike seasonal influenza we see each year, pandemic influenza results when a new strain of virus spreads rapidly around the world. This can cause serious illness and death for millions of people.

What should you do during a pandemic?

During a pandemic, health professionals will be extremely busy taking care of the ill and providing vaccine, when it becomes available.

There are things you can do to take care of yourself and your family.

• Wash your hands - this is one of the best defences against influenza.
• Cover your cough.
• Get enough rest.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and pain.
• If you are ill, reduce your contact with others, especially seniors, children and people with chronic disease or weakened immune systems.
• Keep informed.
• More selfcare information

In a pandemic, Alberta Health and Wellness and your regional health authority will advise you about vaccine availability and any changes that may be made in health-care services to deal with the pandemic. Volunteers may be needed as contingency plans unfold. Your help will be appreciated.

For more information contact:

Health Link Alberta
Edmonton, call 408-LINK (5465)
Calgary, call 943-LINK (5465)
Outside Edmonton and Calgary local calling
areas, call toll-free 1-866-408-LINK (5465)
visit: http://www.healthlinkalberta.ca/

Public Health Centres
(Monday - Friday, daytime hours), or
physicians or pharmacists