It's the one event you hope will never happen.
But every health expert suggests it's inevitable.
The bird flu pandemic thankfully hasn't ruffled many feathers in this part of the world, although it's had a serious effect on many people in Asia.
But doctors warn just because it hasn't happened yet doesn't mean it won't.
Which is why one major chain in the GTA has now started selling this: a flu pandemic kit.
The Grand & Toy item is packed with things like antiseptic wipes, latex gloves and even a face mask.
Doctors believe that if the worst hits, businesses will be decimated by employees booking off sick. They estimate 50 percent of the work force could be lost to the flu.
Some think it's taking things a bit far. But not spokesperson Susan Miller. "It's really about preparedness," she suggests. "There's hand sanitizer. There's antibacterial wipes.
"Companies are concerned about what a flu would do to their absenteeism rates, keeping their businesses functioning."
But would anyone want to work wearing a full mask over their face all the time?
"I think that's a little excessive," responds office worker Jenny Reynolds. "You know, especially for company morale."
If you want one, the pandemic kits will set you back $10.99.
But how will you know if you really need one? And what's the difference between the seasonal flu and the pandemic kind?
Here's a look, courtesy the Public Health Agency of Canada.
What is it?
Avian Flu: A disease caused by influenza viruses carried and spread among birds.
Seasonal Human Flu: A disease caused by influenza viruses carried and spread among humans.
Pandemic Flu: A new strain of influenza virus that spreads quickly worldwide. It's carried and spread among humans who have little or no immunity against it.
How Does It Spread?
Avian Flu: Wild birds are the main carriers. Domestic birds (like chickens and turkeys) can get the virus from wild birds and may become seriously ill.
Humans don't easily contract bird flu viruses but can get it by handling infected fowl or coming into contact with contaminated feces.
There's no evidence it's passed by eating cooked poultry products.
Seasonal Human Flu: Breathing droplets that have been sneezed or coughed into the air by someone with the flu, or having the droplets land on the surface of your eye.
Shaking hands with an infected person or touching a contaminated surface, and then touching your own eyes, nose or mouth.
Pandemic Flu: Spread the same way as seasonal flu.
Common Connections
One way pandemic flu can occur is if bird flu mixes with human flu and creates a new strain that can spread easily from human to human. That hasn't happened - yet.
Courtesy:
Public Health Agency of Canada