Influenza pandemic

Definition

An influenza pandemic is a global outbreak of a new influenza A virus that spreads easily from person to person, causing widespread illness. These pandemics occur when a novel virus emerges against which humans have little to no immunity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Influenza pandemics are caused by novel strains of the influenza A virus, often originating from animal reservoirs.
2. The 1918 Spanish flu is one of the deadliest influenza pandemics, killing an estimated 50 million people worldwide.
3. Pandemic influenza viruses can cause severe respiratory infections and complications such as pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
4. Vaccination and antiviral medications are critical tools in managing and controlling influenza pandemics.
5. Public health measures like social distancing, quarantine, and travel restrictions are commonly implemented during influenza pandemics to reduce transmission.

Review Questions

• What distinguishes an influenza pandemic from a seasonal flu outbreak?
• How do influenza pandemics typically originate?
• What public health measures are commonly used to control the spread of an influenza pandemic?

Related terms

Antigenic Shift: A major change in the influenza A virus, resulting in new hemagglutinin and/or neuraminidase proteins.

Zoonotic Transmission: The process by which infectious diseases are transmitted from animals to humans.

Cytokine Storm: An excessive immune response that can occur in severe viral infections, leading to tissue damage.