Avian Flu and Pandemic Flu
Definitions
Pandemic Flu
A flu pandemic is a global outbreak of disease that occurs when a new influenza virus appears causing serious illness in people. It can spread quickly from person to person around the world. Historically, there have been three pandemics in the past century. These pandemics caused severe illness and millions of deaths. Because of the potential human and economic toll, public health officials have been vigilantly watching and preparing for the next flu pandemic.
Avian Flu
Currently, the Avian Flu, which has been found only in birds outside the United States, is being tracked as a potential threat to humans.