Below are the differences and definitions of seasonal and pandemic flu.
Seasonal Flu(or common flu)is a respiratory illness that can be transmitted person to person. A vaccine is available for the seasonal flu, and most people have developed some immunity.
Outbreaks follow predictable seasonal patterns; occur annually, usually in winter, in cooler climates
Usually there is some immunity built up from previous exposure
Healthy adults usually are not at risk for serious complications; the very young, the elderly and those with certain underlying health conditions are at increased risk for serious complications
Health systems can usually meet public and patient needs
Symptoms: fever, cough, runny nose and muscle pain
Causes modest impact to society and the economy
Pandemic Fluis a virulent flu that causes a global outbreak of serious illness. Because there is little or no natural immunity, the disease can spread easily from person to person. Currently, there is no pandemic (go to www.pandemicflu.gov/vaccine for more information on vaccines).
