When a new kind of flu virus appears for which there is no immunity and no existing vaccine, it can spread rapidly from country to country. This rapid spread is called a pandemic.
Pandemics occur several times each century and can range in severity from the 2009 H1N1 pandemic to the crippling 1918 flu pandemic. Preparing for a pandemic is a big challenge that government cannot handle by itself. We all need to make sure we are personally prepared. The resources listed on this page can help.
Planning for a pandemic
Basic information
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Fact sheet: English • Spanish - Español (PDF) • Chinese - 繁體中文 (PDF) • Korean - 한국어 (PDF) • Russian - Русский (PDF) • Vietnamese - Tiếng Việt (PDF) • Large Type (PDF)
- Pocket guide: “Pandemic Influenza: How You Can Prepare”
View or print the brochure (PDF) • Order print copies of the brochure
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Comic book: “No Ordinary Flu”--available in English only
- Home Care for Pandemic Flu: American Red Cross (PDF).
English | Spanish - Español
For tribes
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H1N1: A Message to Tribal Members: This video message was used by tribes during the H1N1 outbreak and is made available for historical reference and tribal outreach training. Watch video (3:38 mins). View transcript (Word).
Websites with more pandemic flu information
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - The federal government's official pandemic influenza site.
- Washington State Department of Fish & Wildlife - Information about avian influenza and wild birds with safety tips for bird watchers and hunters.
- Washington State Department of Agriculture - Information about pet birds, livestock fowl and eating and preparing poultry.
- Seattle King County Public Health - Planning information.
- Your Local Health Department - Many local health departments have additional information about pandemic flu and emergency preparedness.