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PANDEMIC FAQs |
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- Questions about Pandemics
- Questions about Avian Influenza (“bird flu”)
- What is influenza?
- What is avian influenza?
- How does a human become infected with avian influenza?
- Does the virus spread easily from birds to humans?
- How long is influenza “alive” on a surface?
- How long would the virus be active on hard surfaces and how long on paper? We handle a lot of mail and we're trying to determine if delaying opening of the mail would be effective.
- Is there more than one kind of avian flu virus?
- What type of environment does the avian flu virus need to survive?
- What changes are needed for H5N1 to become a pandemic virus?
- What are the symptoms of Avian Flu?
- How would I get infected by the Avian Flu?
- How long will someone be sick with avian flu?
- Once a person has had the Avian Flu, is it possible they can become re-infected?
- Could I contact Avian Flu by attending the funeral of someone who died from the virus?
- Would the body still be contagious (at a funeral)?
- Is there a vaccine for Avian Flu? If not, why?
- Is there medication available for the Avian Flu?
- What are the types of antivirals, and which one is best?
- Will the pneumonia vaccine help prevent avian flu? Since pneumonia is a major risk when a person has Avian Flu, is there a pneumonia vaccine?
- If an outbreak begins in Iowa, would we get vaccine from the Strategic National Stockpile?
- If a vaccine is developed for avian flu, who makes the decision about who gets vaccinated first? Is there a list of those priorities?
- Who will get Tamiflu? Will the priority list be different for the Veterans Administration Hospital than the rest of the public? Will the VA Hospital follow the CDC Guidelines?
- What is the difference between vaccines and antiviral drugs such as Tamiflu?
- Who will be most at risk from Avian Flu? Is it true that Avian Flu will hit young healthy adults the hardest?
- In 1918, 20-40 year olds died, will this be the same if avian flu infects our population?
- Do I need to wear a special kind of mask or respirator to prevent avian flu?
- Are Public Health officials confident about the predictions about illness and death from Avian Flu, or are they too high or too low?
- Is there a projected date when the H5N1 strain of the avian influenza might hit the United States?
- Will the Health Department (and others) stop planning for Avian Influenza pandemic after a certain period of time if there is no sustained human to human transmission of the virus?
- What is 50% mortality rate and how does it compare to 15-35% of the population being "affected"?
- Is it OK to use anti-bacterial soap?
- Are spray disinfectants effective, like Lysol? Obviously it would be faster to spray a surface than wipe it down, such as phones, keyboards, etc.
- Should I be concerned about keeping birds from around my house?
- Is it safe to eat poultry and poultry products?
- What do I do if I find a dead bird?
- Why should we be monitoring bird migration patterns?
- Are there plans locally to eradicate waterfowl?
- Can I travel to countries that are reporting cases of Avian Flu?
- What precautions should I take if I visit an area affected by H5N1?
- Is there anything special childcare centers should be doing to prepare, and who can assist childcare providers with planning for avian influenza?
- Is it possible for a mad scientist to get a hold of virus of avian flu and virus of seasonal flu, mix them together so that they mutate into a highly transmissible form of the flu?
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Q: How can I learn about preparing for public health emergencies?
A:
The Iowa Department of Public Health, local public health departments, hospitals and emergency medical services sponsor the Protect Iowa Health campaign. Protect Iowa Health educates Iowans about the importance of personal preparedness and the role of public health during emergencies.
The Protect Iowa Health guidebook is available for Iowans and includes checklists on what to include in an emergency supply kit and a family communications plan; as well as, information on immunizations, quarantine and isolation, disease monitoring, the Strategic National Stockpile, and the psychological affects of a public health emergency. To request a copy of the free guide call 1-866-339-7906 or log onto www.protectiowahealth.org.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Are we – and the rest of the world - prepared for a pandemic?
A:
We are more prepared today than yesterday and will be more prepared tomorrow. Much of the planning for a pandemic is the responsibility of state and local governments; however, it’s also important individuals take personal responsibility and develop a preparedness plan.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: How serious is the current pandemic risk?
A:
Influenza pandemics are natural occurring events and have occurred three times in the past century — in 1918-19, 1957-58, and 1968-69. Influenza pandemics rapidly infect virtually all countries. Once international spread begins, pandemics are considered unstoppable because the virus spreads rapidly. Some pandemics have caused large numbers of people to become sick and die, while other pandemics have been slightly milder than seasonal “regular” influenza.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Can a pandemic be prevented?
A:
No, many scientists believe it is a matter of time until the next influenza pandemic occurs. The timing and severity of the next pandemic cannot be predicted; however, advances in medicine and technology potentially could lower the risk. Influenza pandemics occurred three times in the past century — in 1918-19, 1957-58, and 1968-69.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: How will mortality compare in a pandemic now compared to the Spanish influenza in 1918 and the Hong Kong Flu in 1968-69?
A:
The severity of disease and the number of deaths caused by a pandemic virus vary greatly, and cannot be known prior to the emergence of the virus. During past pandemics, 15-35% of the total population was affected.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: What are the plans of Polk County Health Department
to control the disease and treat the community (prophylaxis) if a pandemic occurs?
A:
Educational materials will guide people to protect themselves. Nurse investigators will work with physicians and hospitals to identify the sick and limit their contact with well people.
If vaccine is available, large, easily accessible sites will be opened, throughout the community. High priority populations will be vaccinated before the public at-large.
(Polk County Health Department)
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Q: What are the Des Moines hospitals planning to do in the event of pandemic flu?
A:
Each of the Des Moines hospitals are in the process of completing pandemic plans that would cover not only flu, but other situations that would require a lengthy influx of patients. The plans will address the issues of need for increased supplies, food and manpower as well as the issue of surge capacity?
(Des Moines Hospitals)
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Q: Will one hospital be designated for isolated patients?
A:
We doubt that this would be a viable option. Even in an epidemic (even those with the flu) people will continue to need specialized services (renal, cardiac, pediatrics, etc.) that may not be provided at all hospitals. It could also create a mass of paperwork when patients or practitioners have to go to facilities/physicians are not on their provider list.
(Des Moines Hospitals)
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Q: Will my movements be restricted in a pandemic?
A:
People who get sick will be asked to voluntarily restrict their movements. Depending on the seriousness of the pandemic, additional restrictions (mandatory restrictions, limit public gatherings, close public buildings) may be considered.
(Polk County Health Department)
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Q: What are “isolation” and “quarantine?”
A:
Isolation and quarantine are strategies to limit the movement of people who may be spreading a communicable disease. A person ill with a disease can be isolated to prevent him/her from exposing others to the disease. A person exposed to a disease, but not ill, may be quarantined in order to prevent exposing others should the person become ill.
(Polk County Health Department)
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Q: How and why is Polk County Health Department monitoring conditions for a pandemic locally?
A:
Polk County Health Department monitors schools (for the number of students and staff out sick), hospitals (for available beds), and some employers (for number of employees out sick). The earlier a new outbreak is detected the quicker protective steps can be implemented and the impact of the outbreak reduced.
(Polk County Health Department)
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Q: Since drugs would be administered by county, would employees be able to receive the drugs at their work location or do they have to get them from the county they live in? We have several employees that live in a different county and some in a different state. We are putting together numbers by county, but need to know which location this needs to be based on.
A:
There will be a system in place to reach those at risk.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Will the schools be closed during a pandemic?
A:
During infectious disease outbreaks, the Iowa Department of Public Health seldom recommends the closure of a school.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Is there a plan for clinics or other special arrangements to vaccinate or give flumist to kids in schools to raise the overall level of influenza resistance in the community?
A:
The state has plans in place to distribute vaccine and antivirals during any public health emergency. Any decisions about prioritizing vaccine and antivirals during a pandemic will not happen until a pandemic is occurring.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Why are community education forums being held (if there is low risk of the avian flu developing into a pandemic)?
A:
Avian flu still might develop into a pandemic. Planning for a pandemic will improve our response to many other types of public health and community responses.
(Polk County Health Department)
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Q: What is the risk to our water supply?
A:
The Raccoon and Des Moines Rivers, which supply the bulk of water treated by Des Moines Water Works (DMWW), have historically been laden with high bacteria and virus counts during certain times of the year. Therefore the DMWW treatment plants have been designed and operated to remove all bacteria and viruses. The lime softening treatment process employed by DMWW is very effective in removing both bacteria and viruses. After softening, chlorine kills or deactivates any that might remain. Because of the robust nature of the entire treatment process, DMWW has been able to continue to use "free" chlorine, the most effective weapon available for pathogen control.
(Des Moines Water Works)
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Q: How many days worth of food and supplies should I keep on hand?
A:
Store a two week supply of water and food. If you cannot get to a store, or if stores are out of supplies, it will be important for you to have extra supplies on hand.
(American Red Cross)
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Q: I heard I'm supposed to stockpile water. Why? Will the water be undrinkable?
A:
There is no reason to expect that water systems will have a problem in association with any pandemic. The reason for stockpiling water will be simply to prevent any need for venturing out of the home in a time of a pandemic.
(American Red Cross)
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Q: What steps are schools taking to prepare for Pandemic Influenza?
A:
Currently Metro-Des Moines area school districts and the related local health departments are planning together to craft a consistent, comprehensive school response plan. The plan will be shared with district administrators and each district will work with its staff to adopt the plan in their school district.
School nurses will be playing an important role in monitoring illness trends and reporting concerns to the health department. Schools will work with local health departments in developing and sharing information about flu prevention with school employees and families. Schools and local health care providers will work cooperatively to offer flu clinics.
Our most effective tool in preventing the spread of illness is through education. The school nurse will be working with school communities to provide accurate information about illnesses and in promoting health practices that prevent the spread of illness in schools. Several key messages will be to: 1) get a flu shot, 2) practice good hygiene and 3) stay home from school when you are ill.
(Des Moines Public Schools)
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Q: Is there a risk of mercury toxicity from getting a flu shot?
A:
There is no scientifically conclusive evidence of harm from exposure to Mercury containing thimerosal preservative-containing flu shots. Flu shot manufacturers have been successful in reducing and eliminating Mercury in the flu shots for infants and pregnant women. The benefits of flu shots outweigh the theoretical risj, if any, for thimerosal exposure through vaccination.
(VA Hospital)
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Q: What is influenza?
A:
Influenza is a virus that causes respiratory (nose, throat and lungs) illness in humans and also infects many types of animals. Influenza is contagious and spreads from an ill person to others by coughing and sneezing.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: What is avian influenza?
A:
Avian influenza, or “bird flu”, is a contagious disease of animals caused by viruses that normally infect birds and sometimes pigs. Avian influenza viruses cause illness only in birds, but on rare occasions has infected humans.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q:How does a human become infected with avian influenza?
A:
Most cases of avian influenza infection in humans have resulted from close contact with infected poultry (e.g., domesticated chicken, ducks, and turkeys) or surfaces contaminated with feces of infected birds. The spread of avian influenza viruses from one ill person to another has been reported rarely and transmission has not been observed to continue beyond one person.
(Iowa Departmnent of Public Health)
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Q: Does the virus spread easily from birds to humans?
A:
No. Though more than 100 human cases have occurred in the current outbreak, it is a small number when compared to the huge number of birds affected and the numerous opportunities for human exposure, especially in areas where backyard flocks are common. It is not presently understood why some people, and not others, become infected following similar exposures.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: How long is influenza “alive” on a surface?
A:
Studies have shown that human influenza viruses generally can survive on surfaces for between 2 and 8 hours, but this depends on the type of surface, temperature, humidity, and other factors. Generally, people do not become ill from contaimated surfaces, but from sick people.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: How long would the virus be active on hard surfaces and how long on paper? We handle a lot of mail and we're trying to determine if delaying opening of the mail would be effective.
A:
Studies have shown that human influenza viruses generally can survive on surfaces for between 2 and 8 hours, but this depends on the type of surface, temperature, humidity, and other factors. Generally, people do not become ill from contaimated surfaces like mail, but from sick people.
Mail is a poor surface and it unlikely a person will get sick from opening mail. The person will become sick from being around those who are coughing and sneezing and not staying home. Make sure to wash your hands often with soap and water if around someone who is coughing and sneezing.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Is there more than one kind of avian flu virus?
A:
In domestic poultry, avian influenza viruses cause two main forms of disease. Low pathogenic avian influenza causes mild symptoms (ruffled feathers, a drop in egg production) and may easily go undetected. Highly pathogenic avian influenza is more serious. It spreads rapidly through poultry flocks, affects multiple internal organs and has a mortality that can approach 100%, often within 48 hours.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: What type of environment does the avian flu virus need to survive?
A:
Avian influenza needs birds to survive because the virus occurs naturally among birds. The H5N1 virus occurs mainly in birds, is highly contagious among birds, and can be deadly to them. The H5N1 virus does not usually infect people, but infections with these viruses have occurred in humans. Most of these cases have resulted from people having direct or close contact with H5N1 infected poultry or their feces.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: What changes are needed for H5N1 to become a pandemic virus?
A:
For H5N1 to become a pandemic virus it must mutate or reassort. During the 10 years since discovering H5N1, this type of mutation and reassortment has not happened.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: What are the symptoms of Avian Flu?
A:
To become sick with avian influenza, a person must come in contact with a bird infected with avian influenza or their feces. There is no evidence the H5N1 infected birds are in North America.
Symptoms of avian influenza in humans in the countries where H5N1 was discovered have ranged from typical human influenza-like symptoms (e.g., fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle aches) to eye infections, pneumonia, severe respiratory diseases (such as acute respiratory distress), and other severe and life-threatening complications. The symptoms of avian influenza may depend on which virus caused the infection.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: How would I get infected by the Avian Flu?
A:
Most cases have resulted from having direct or close contact with H5N1 infected birds or their feces. There is no evidence H5N1 infected birds are in North America.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: How long will someone be sick with avian flu?
A:
A person can be sick with avian influenza for a week to 10 days. Of the human cases associated with the ongoing H5N1 outbreaks in poultry and wild birds in Asia, parts of Europe, the Near East and Africa, more than half of those reported infected with the virus have died.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Once a person has had the Avian Flu, is it possible they can become re-infected?
A:
It’s unlikely a person can become re-infected with the same influenza strain that previously made them sick.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Could I contact Avian Flu by attending the funeral of someone who died from the virus?
A:
No.
(Polk County Medical Examiner)
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Q: Would the body still be contagious (at a funeral)?
A:
Only if you come in contact with respiratory secretions from the decedent.
(Polk County Medical Examiner)
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Q: Is there a vaccine for Avian Flu? If not, why?
A:
There is not a human vaccine for avian influenza. The influenza vaccine production process is long and complicated. Traditional influenza vaccine production for the U.S. relies on long-standing technology based on chicken eggs. This production technology is labor-intensive and takes up to 9 months from start to finish.
The appearance of an influenza pandemic virus would likely require creation of a vaccine; however, large amounts of vaccine cannot be made before knowing exactly which virus will cause the pandemic. Researchers are making and testing possible H5N1 vaccines now. It could then take up to 6 months before a vaccine is available and in only limited amounts at first.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Is there medication available for the Avian Flu?
A:
Two drugs, commercially known as Tamiflu and Relenza, can reduce the severity and duration of illness caused by seasonal influenza. The effectiveness of these drugs depends, among other things, on their early administration (within 48 hours after symptom onset). For cases of human infection with H5N1, the drugs may improve prospects of survival, if administered early, but clinical data are limited.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: What are the types of antivirals, and which one is best?
A:
Determining which antiviral will work best will depend on the strain causing the pandemic. Currently the world is not experiencing a pandemic; therefore, the strain in not known.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Will the pneumonia vaccine help prevent avian flu? Since pneumonia is a major risk when a person has Avian Flu, is there a pneumonia vaccine?
A:
No, the pneumonia vaccine can’t prevent avian influenza. There are pneumonia vaccines to prevent a sick person from the influenza complication. The pneumonia vaccines and antibiotics could prevent and be life-saving in the case of late-onset pneumonia.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: If an outbreak begins in Iowa, would we get vaccine from the Strategic National Stockpile?
A:
Vaccines effective against a pandemic virus are not yet available; therefore, vaccine would not be available from the Strategic National Stockpile.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: If a vaccine is developed for avian flu, who makes the decision about who gets vaccinated first? Is there a list of those priorities?
A:
When a pandemic occurs, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will provide states guidelines on vaccination prioritization. Creating a priority list prior to a pandemic is not beneficial because decisions depend on the virus causing the pandemic and currently the world is not experiencing a pandemic.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Who will get Tamiflu? Will the priority list be different for the Veterans Administration Hospital than the rest of the public? Will the VA Hospital follow the CDC Guidelines?
A:
In the event of a pandemic or widespread outbreak of avian or seasonal flu, local, state, and national governments will activate pre-existing plans in a coordinated effort to guide the transport, receipt, storage, security, tracking and delivery of Tamiflu. The VA does maintain a national stockpile of Tamiflu but will work in cooperation with State Health Departments and the CDC in the distribution of Tamiflu. The CDC will provide specific guidance to the proper use of Tamiflu or other antiviral agents. Most likely it can be expected that Tamiflu will be prioritized to be used for treatment of acute flu within 48 hours of the onset on symptoms, for use in post-exposure prophylaxis to direct contacts of infected persons, and for healthcare workers, public safety workers and essential service providers.
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Q: What is the difference between vaccines and antiviral drugs such as Tamiflu?
A:
Vaccines are usually given as a preventive measure. Currently available viral vaccines are usually made from either killed virus or weakened versions of the live virus or pieces of the virus that stimulate an immune response to the virus. When immunized, the body is then poised to fight or prevent infection more effectively.
Antivirals are drugs that may be given to help prevent viral infections or to treat people who have been infected by a virus. When given to treat people who have been infected, antiviral medications may help limit the impact of some symptoms and reduce the potential for serious complications, especially for people who are in high risk groups.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Who will be most at risk from Avian Flu? Is it true that Avian Flu will hit young healthy adults the hardest?
A:
Most cases have occurred in previously healthy children and young adults and resulted from direct or close contact with H5N1-infected poultry or their feces. In general, H5N1 remains a rare disease in people. The H5N1 virus does not infect humans easily, and if a person becomes infected it is very difficult for the virus to spread to another person.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: In 1918, 20-40 year olds died, will this be the same if avian flu infects our population?
A:
Because a pandemic is not happening in the world, the population it will affect is unknown. The Iowa Department of Public Health does use a medium case scenario when discussing potential illness and death with a potential pandemic influenza.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Do I need to wear a special kind of mask or respirator to prevent avian flu?
A:
Currently, wearing a mask is not recommended for routine use (e.g., in public) for preventing influenza exposure. In the United States, disposable surgical and procedure masks have been widely used in health-care settings to prevent exposure to respiratory infections, but the masks have not been used commonly in community settings, such as schools, businesses, and public gatherings.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Are Public Health officials confident about the predictions about illness and death from Avian Flu, or are they too high or too low?
A:
The Iowa Department of Public Health uses a medium case scenario when discussing potential illness and death with a potential pandemic influenza.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Is there a projected date when the H5N1 strain of the avian influenza might hit the United States?
A:
No, that’s why federal, state and local governments are preparing now to be ready for the future.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Will the Health Department (and others) stop planning for Avian Influenza pandemic after a certain period of time if there is no sustained human to human transmission of the virus?
A:
No. Local and state health departments plan and prepare for all bioemergencies pandemic influenza and other public health emergencies.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: What is 50% mortality rate and how does it compare to 15-35% of the population being "affected"?
A:
A pandemic will happen over the course of many months and 15-35% of the world’s population will be affected with the influenza strain. Of those affected, some scientists have predicted a 50% mortality rate; however, these estimates and the real risk may be much lower.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Is it OK to use anti-bacterial soap?
A:
Washing hands with regular soap and water is an important preventive measure in stopping the spread of any infectious disease. Using antibacterial soap is necessary if a person’s immune system has been weakened by a disease (for example, those with HIV, diabetes, cancer, or transplant recipients) or treatments for a disease such as cancer treatments.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Are spray disinfectants effective, like Lysol? Obviously it would be faster to spray a surface than wipe it down, such as phones, keyboards, etc.
A:
Studies have shown that human influenza viruses generally can survive on surfaces for between 2 and 8 hours. Several chemical germicides, including chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, detergents (soap), iodophors (iodine-based antiseptics), and alcohols are effective against influenza viruses if used in proper concentration for sufficient length of time. For example, wipes or gels with alcohol in them can be used to clean hands. The gels should be rubbed until they are dry.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Should I be concerned about keeping birds from around my house?
A:
No, H5N1 has not been detected in North America birds; therefore, there should be no concern about birds around your house.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Is it safe to eat poultry and poultry products?
A:
Yes, though certain precautions should be followed in countries currently experiencing outbreaks. In areas free of the disease, poultry and poultry products can be prepared and consumed as usual (following good hygienic practices and proper cooking), with no fear of acquiring infection with the H5N1 virus.
In areas experiencing outbreaks, poultry and poultry products can also be safely consumed provided these items are properly cooked and properly handled during food preparation. The H5N1 virus is sensitive to heat. Normal temperatures used for cooking (70oC in all parts of the food) will kill the virus. Consumers need to be sure that all parts of the poultry are fully cooked (no “pink” parts) and that eggs, too, are properly cooked (no “runny” yolks).
Consumers should also be aware of the risk of cross-contamination. Juices from raw poultry and poultry products should never be allowed, during food preparation, to touch or mix with items eaten raw. When handling raw poultry or raw poultry products, persons involved in food preparation should wash their hands thoroughly and clean and disinfect surfaces in contact with the poultry products. Soap and hot water are sufficient for this purpose.
In areas experiencing outbreaks in poultry, raw eggs should not be used in foods that will not be further heat-treated as, for example by cooking or baking.
Avian influenza is not transmitted through cooked food. To date, no evidence indicates that anyone has become infected following the consumption of properly cooked poultry or poultry products, even when these foods were contaminated with the H5N1 virus.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: What do I do if I find a dead bird?
A:
If you have a dead bird, please call Polk County Environmental Health at (515)-286-3376 immediately. If the bird has trauma or has been in the hot sun for more than 24 hours, it may be too late or damaged for analysis. The bird has to be a BLUEJAY or CROW.
If the bird is found after our working hours, 7:00 a.m to 4:30 p.m or on weekends follow the steps provided:
- Use a plastic bag.
- Slip your hand in the bag and pick up the bird.
- Slip the bag over the bird and tie shut.
- Wash your hands thoroughly.
- Freeze the bird and contact our department.
(Polk County Public Works)
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Q: Why should we be monitoring bird migration patterns?
A:
Migratory birds usually travel thousands of miles over the same routes in their annual migrations. In the Northern Hemisphere, birds begin moving south during August and September of each year. North American migratory birds that spend the winter in Asia may come into contact with potentially infected domestic or wild birds during the winter months.
In spring, migratory birds will migrate north to their breeding grounds in eastern Russia, Alaska, and Canada. Migratory birds infected with the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 returning from Asia could potentially interact with other North American wild birds as they commingle on the breeding grounds.
Bird migration is only one possible route of introduction of HPAI H5N1 into North America. Illegal smuggling of birds and poultry products, travel by infected people, or people traveling with virus-contaminated articles are more direct, and possibly more likely, means of introducing the new strain of HPAI H5N1 virus into the United States.
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), in collaboration with state fish and wildlife agencies, are strategically sampling migratory birds for H5N1 in Alaska, elsewhere in the Pacific Flyway, and on the Pacific Islands. These efforts complement wild bird surveillance being conducted throughout the U.S. by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and other cooperating agencies and groups.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Are there plans locally to eradicate waterfowl?
A:
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources does not plan to have a waterfowl eradication program. Additional information is available on their web site www.iowaavianflu.org
(Iowa Department of Natural Resources)
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Q: Can I travel to countries that are reporting cases of Avian Flu?
A:
Polk County Health Department operates a travel clinic. We provide vaccinations for people traveling to other countries. Our nurses constantly monitor CDC guidance for international travelers.
(Polk County Health Department)
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Q: What precautions should I take if I visit an area affected by H5N1?
A:
- Avoid contact with live birds, chickens, ducks, turkeys, geese, and their feces, feathers, and pens if at all possible. Children, in particular, should be warned and kept away.
- Pet birds should not be kept.
- If preparing poultry, cook it well done before eating.
- Avoid cross contamination of other foods by use of separate kitchen utensils and surfaces exposed to raw poultry.
- Wash hands with soap and water after any poultry contact.
- Be sure, if possible, that poultry does not live near your housing area.
- Do not transport live or dead poultry even if it appears to be healthy.
- If you must travel to infected areas and work directly with infected birds, poultry or humans, personal protective equipment should be worn.
- Be sure to wear gloves, a special N-95 mask, goggles, and a disposable gown if you must be in contact with the birds/poultry in enclosed environments where aerosolization of the small virus particles may occur.
- Observe yourself for the development of any respiratory or gastrointestinal symptoms after the visit and check your temperature for a week afterwards, and contact a physician if you have any questions or develop any symptoms.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Is there anything special childcare centers should be doing to prepare, and who can assist childcare providers with planning for avian influenza?
A:
The Iowa Department of Public Health has developed various resources to educate Iowans about pandemic preparations. Information for daycares and schools is available on the Iowa Department of Public Health Web site, www.idph.state.ia.us/pandemic/families.asp. A pandemic influenza preparedness packet was also developed for Iowa businesses, www.idph.state.ia.us/pandemic/businesses.asp
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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Q: Is it possible for a mad scientist to get a hold of virus of avian flu and virus of seasonal flu, mix them together so that they mutate into a highly transmissible form of the flu?
A:
It’s highly unlikely someone will reassort seasonal influenza and/or avian influenza and intentionally spread the disease. Avian influenza happens naturally because birds, like humans, have respiratory functions.
(Iowa Department of Public Health)
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