Introduction

An epidemic is a classification of a disease that appears as new cases in a given human population, during a given period, at a rate that substantially exceeds what is "expected," based on recent experience (the number of new cases in the population during a specified period of time is called the "incidence rate").

A pandemic is an epidemic that spreads across a large region (for example a continent), or even worldwide.

What you can do to stay healthy

Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick, too.

• If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, or cough/sneeze into the inner elbow joint of your arm. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Dispose of any used tissue in a trash receptacle.
• Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Practice other good health habits. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

Current Epidemic/Pandemic Information

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Current Outbreak List