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Nurses & Pandemic Influenza

There have been three outbreaks of pandemic influenza in the United States, occurring in 1918, 1957 and 1968. Nurses are especially at risk during these situations, as they encounter increased exposure to the pathogens in hospitals and clinics.

  1. Protections

    • Organizations including the American Nurses Association promote protective measures and adequate vaccination for nurses potentially exposed to a pandemic flu strain. The Center for Disease Control is studying the effectiveness of protections, such as facemasks and respirators.

    Types

    • Pandemic flu viruses differ from normal types of flu that nurses see on a regular basis. As of 2010, the most anticipated pandemic flu is a mutation of the avian flu virus. The CDC prepared vaccinations to protect nurses and the public if this mutation occurs. However, strains like the 2009 H1N1 virus have the potential for unexpected pandemic infections.

    Public Protection

    • Nurses play a major role in public protection and community health plans. Nurses educate patients on their risks, recommending methods to lower transmission rates, such as the use of facemasks and hand sanitizer. They actively promote flu shots, the main defense against influenza pandemics.

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