Avian (bird) flu is caused by viruses that occur naturally among wild birds. One type
of bird flu virus is called H5N1. This virus
is deadly to domestic (farm-raised) birds
such as chickens, turkeys and ducks and has
spread to other animals including pigs, cats
and sometimes humans.
Many of the people
who have been infected were living or working
closely with infected birds. About half
have died.
At this time, H5N1 has NOT been detected in the U.S. among humans,
birds or other animals.
To read the latest information about the current situation as reported by the CDC, click here.
What CCDPH is Doing to Prepare for a Possible Outbreak in our Area
The mission of CCDPH is to protect the health
of the public by preventing and controlling the
spread of disease and promoting healthy behaviors.
CCDPH is:
Preparing response plans with many
private and government agencies
including Illinois Department of Public
Health and U.S. Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention for a large-scale
influenza outbreak.
Connecting electronically with 26 area
hospitals to be able to detect (early)
patients with unusual symptoms.
Working with municipalities to identify
sites for distribution of medications
such as vaccines to the public.
What You Can Do Each Day
Be aware of the current situation. You can read the latest information in the newspaper, watching the news on television, listening to the radio or visiting sites like www.cookcountypublichealth.org or those listed to the left for updates.
Practice safe hygiene. Wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based sanitizer. Cover your cough and sneeze with your arm to prevent the spread of disesase - ask your family members to do the same. And, stay away from others when you are sick. All of these things will help prevent the spread of many types of illness.
Practice good health habits. Be sure to get plenty of rest, eat a balanced diet and be sure to exercise. Visit your doctor each year for a seasonal flu shot.
What Businesses Can Do
Learn more about how to create a
plan to keep your business operational.
Encourage sick employees/students to
stay home when sick and practice good
hygiene and health habits.
Plan for employee/student absenteeism
if there is widespread illness. Will your
business or school stay open? How?
You may also want to view the recently presented PowerPoint presentation to the business community from CCDPH Chief Operating Officer Stephen A. Martin, Jr., Ph.D., M.P.H.Pandemic
Pandemic Influenza: Challenges and Preparation for Suburban Cook County Schools
The purpose of this workshop is to share facts about seasonal vs. pandemic flu
and the current status of avian flu; the activities that the State and County
have taken thus far; and the issues that school districts need to consider for
pandemic planning. We also hope to solicit your help as we continue to
plan.
