An influenza pandemic occurs when a new strain of influenza virus emerges, spreading around the world and infecting many people at once.

The Ministry of Health is working with the health sector and other Government agencies to ensure New Zealand is as prepared as possible for a potential pandemic. For further information please refer to the Ministry of Health website regarding Pandemic Preparedness, or to the information below.

To download a copy of the Pandemic Bird Flu Preparedness information simply click on the picture. Whilst this information is prepared in the US it is appliciable to preparedness in New Zealand.

Click on each question to view the answer.

What is Influenza?
What is Seasonal Influenza?
What can you do to prevent getting or spreading seasonal influenza?
What is Avian Influenza (bird flu) and is it easily spread to humans?
Why are health authorities concerned about Avian Influenza?
What is an Influenza Pandemic?
What are the symptoms of Pandemic Influenza?
How likely is an Influenza Pandemic?
How often do Pandemics occur and what causes them?
What could happen in an Influenza Pandemic?
Who will be in charge if there is a Pandemic in New Zealand?
What could happen in New Zealand if there is a Pandemic?
How will New Zealanders get treatment or health advice in an Influenza Pandemic?
How many people could get sick or die if a Pandemic Virus reaches New Zealand?
How will I know what to do in a Pandemic?
What should people do at home to deal with an Influenza Pandemic?
What can I do to protect myself and others in an Influenza Pandemic?