Watch Metro Voices "Bird Flu - Preparation, Not Panic" on Aug. 23

It is only a matter of time before the "Bird Flu" makes its way to the United States according to many health experts. Some even say it could reach our shores before the end of 2007.

The arrival of bird flu in other countries has proved highly lethal when contracted by humans in close contact with infected birds. Fortunately, the deadly virus has not mixed with another flu virus to become one that is easily spread from human to human. What makes this virus so deadly, and do you know how to protect and care for yourself and your family if a strain of bird Flu were to become a new pandemic virus? Watch "Bird Flu - Preparation, not Panic" with host Wendy Brockman, to learn more about the history of pandemic flu illnesses, and what you can do to protect yourself in the event of an outbreak.

GMTC member Channel 8s will be airing the half hour program produced by the Cities of Lakewood and Arvada in partnership with the Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment beginning on Thursday, August 23 at 9 p.m. The Metro Voice show, entitled "Bird Flu - Preparation, Not Panic" will repeat throughout the following month on each Channel 8 individually. Check your local Channel 8s programming schedule for repeat show times.

"We are working to educate people so that they do understand the difference between seasonal flu, bird flu and pandemic flu and how to get prepared," said Dr. Mark Johnson, Executive Director for Jefferson County's Department of Health and Environment. "Doing this video is another way of trying to get information out so that people aren't scared - they really need to not panic, but be prepared."

The GMTC's board represents the local governments listed below and works to protect the public's interest in matters of concern related to telecommunications issues. For more information about the GMTC or upcoming Metro Voices programs, visit the GMTC web site at www.gmtc.org.