Pandemic Flu: the facts

Information about Influenza

Influenza is an acute viral infection of the respiratory tract. Influenza is highly infectious with an incubation period of one to three days. Influenza infections are spread by respiratory droplets produced by coughing or sneezing. Spread can also occur through fine aerosols and by hand to mucous membrane contact. Symptoms include fever, chills, headache and extreme fatigue. Other common symptoms include a dry cough, sore throat and stuffy nose. Many people confuse Influenza with a heavy cold; however, Influenza is usually more severe and is caused by a different virus. For otherwise healthy individuals, Influenza is an unpleasant but usually self-limiting disease with recovery in two to seven days, but for some people it can lead to illnesses that are more serious. During a pandemic, Influenza can also cause serious illness in young healthy individuals.

Planning for a Flu Pandemic within the University

This is the responsibility of The Cambridge University and Colleges Emergency Planning Working Party. Its membership includes representatives of local and regional health protection agencies and Primary Care Trusts, as well as Senior Tutors, Bursars, College Nurses, a Professor of Medicine and Head of House, the University's Occupational Health Service, the Committee of Management of the University Health Services, the University Counselling Service, and the University's Emergency Management Team.