An epidemic is the occurrence of more cases of a disease than would be expected in a community or region during a given time period. A pandemic is used to describe an epidemic that affects the whole population across every continent.
Melbourne City Council has an influenza pandemic plan known as the Influenza Pandemic Action Plan (IPAP) to provide the appropriate response and resources to minimise the impact of such an out break within the municipality and to maintain essential services provided by Council to both the business and residential community.
Council continues to work and liaise with the State Government Department of Health, regional councils and local health agencies to remain alert with the most recent information and advise in preparation for a pandemic influenza event.
For further information regarding the Influenza Pandemic Action Plan , contact City of Melbourne Health Service Branch on 03 9658 9658 or via the online form.
Influenza Immunisation
Influenza viruses change every year because the influenza virus has a unique ability to change its surface structure. This allows it to escape recognition by the body’s immune system. So a new vaccine needs to be developed and given each year.
Immunisation should occur between March and May, before the onset of the flu season. Most cases of influenza occur within a six to eight-week period during winter and spring. Protection develops about two weeks after the injection and lasts for up to one year.
Influenza vaccine cannot give you a dose of flu because it contains no live virus. However, some people may still contract the flu because the vaccine may not always protect against all strains of the influenza virus circulating in the community.
Influenza immunisation is recommended for people in known high risk groups.
For further information regarding flu immunisation and those in a high risk group, visit Better health.
For further information on influenza pandemic visit the following websites:
Emergency agencies