Frequently Asked Questions

There may be many questions that you have, but these are some of the key questions that people ask. Some of this information is taken from the Department of Health’s website, but please visit www.dh.gov.uk for more FAQs.

What’s the difference between seasonal and pandemic flu?
Seasonal flu circulates in the population and causes illness across the country each winter. Pandemic flu occurs infrequently, when a new flu virus emerges which is different from those that have previously circulated amongst the population. Pandemic flu spreads easily between people because they have little or no immunity to it.

What is avian flu?
Avian flu (or as it is commonly known, bird flu) is a disease that mainly affects birds. Avian flu could have a trigger effect on pandemic flu in humans, as an avian flu virus (such as the H5N1 virus) may mutate into a new virus that can pass easily between the human population.

Can I get a jab to protect me against pandemic flu?
The World Heath Organisation has bought a stockpile of anti-viral drugs which it is hoped may contain the emerging pandemic flu virus. However, because the pandemic flu virus will be a new strain of the flu virus, at this time it's impossible to manufacture a specific anti-viral drug to fight a pandemic flu.

How likely is it that pandemic flu will spread to this country?
Very likely. Although there are no certainties and the spread of the virus can’t be predicted, experts are concerned that the H5N1 avian flu virus may mutate into a pandemic flu that will affect humans. This could happen in the next few weeks, or it could take months.

What precautions can I take to avoid getting pandemic flu?
Pandemic flu hints and tips page

Will wearing a face mask during the Pandemic Flu period help prevent the spread of Flu?

The widespread wearing of masks by the general public during a pandemic is unlikely to be effective in preventing people from becoming infected with the virus. However, DH states that they may have some limited use for those already infected with the virus in order to prevent them spreading it further. Health care workers and Emergency Service Staff will be advised on the situations in which it may be appropriate for them to wear masks.

Department of Health guidance on face masks (click on the fifth bullet point which will open a new PDF documents)

And what if I get pandemic flu?
Pandemic flu hints and tips page

Pandemic flu advice page