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An infectious disease outbreak or pandemic can affect and disrupt our work, homes, and communities

With globalization, the threats of new infectious diseases are a growing concern, and when a new kind of virus spreads easily from person to person throughout the world, it can become a pandemic. Being informed and knowing what to do in the event of an outbreak will help minimize the impacts on our daily lives, work, and activities.

Browse this site for helpful guidance, advice and tools to help you plan, prepare, prevent and protect against infectious disease outbreaks.

Influenza (Flu)

Sudden onset of:

High fever lasting 3-4 days
Cough, chest discomfort
Headache
Muscle aches and pains
Extreme exhaustion - usually at the start
Fatigue and weakness that may last 2-3 weeks or longer
Sore throat

Symptoms can last 4-10 days and may become severe. A cough and general fatigue may last for several weeks.
Complications can lead to dehydration, pnemonia and respiratory failure; can worsen a current chronic condition; can be life-threatening.
Yearly flu vaccine will help prevent or ease symptoms (but may not protect against a new pandemic influenza virus)
Some people are at greater risk of more severe complications such as pneumonia (e.g. those over 65; those with chronic conditions like diabetes and cancer)

Stomach Flu (Gastroenteritis)