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What is an Influenza Pandemic?
A pandemic is a global disease outbreak. An influenza
pandemic occurs when a new influenza A virus emerges for which there is little
or no immunity in the human population, begins to cause serious illness and then
spreads easily person-to-person worldwide.
Historically, the 20th century saw 3 pandemics of influenza:
- 1918 influenza pandemic caused at least 500,000 U.S. deaths and up to 40
million deaths worldwide
- 1957 influenza pandemic caused at least 70,000 U.S. deaths and 1-2
million deaths worldwide
- 1968 influenza pandemic caused about 34,000 U.S. deaths and 700,000
deaths worldwide
Characteristics and challenges of a pandemic
(1) Rapid Worldwide Spread
When a pandemic influenza virus emerges, its global
spread is considered inevitable.
Preparedness activities should assume that the entire
world population would be susceptible.
Countries might, through measures such as border closures
and travel restrictions, delay arrival of the virus, but cannot stop it.
(2) Health Care Systems Overloaded
Most people have little or no immunity to a pandemic virus. Infection
and illness rates soar. A substantial percentage of the world’s population
will require some form of medical care.
Nations unlikely to have the staff, facilities, equipment
and hospital beds needed to cope with large numbers of people who suddenly
fall ill.
Inadequate supplies antivirals drugs, the two most important medical
interventions for reducing illness and deaths, are of particular concern.
Death rates are high, largely determined by four factors: the number of
people who become infected, the virulence of the virus, the underlying
characteristics and vulnerability of affected populations and the
effectiveness of preventive measures.
Past pandemics have spread globally in two and sometimes
three waves.
(3) Medical Supplies Inadequate
The need for vaccine is likely to outstrip supply.
The need for antiviral drugs is also likely to be
inadequate early in a pandemic.
A pandemic can create a shortage of hospital beds,
ventilators and other supplies. Surge capacity at non-traditional sites such
as schools may be created to cope with demand
Difficult decisions will need to be made regarding who
gets antiviral drugs and vaccines.
(4) Economic and Social Disruption
Travel bans, closings of schools and businesses and
cancellations of events could have major impact on communities and citizens.
Care for sick family members and fear of exposure can
result in significant worker absenteeism.
Communications and Information are Critical Components of
Pandemic Response
Education and outreach are critical to preparing for a
pandemic. Understanding what a pandemic is, what needs to be done at all levels
to prepare for pandemic influenza, and what could happen during a pandemic helps
us make informed decisions both as individuals and as a nation. Should a
pandemic occur the public must be able to depend on its government to provide
scientifically sound public health information quickly, openly and dependably.
For additional information on pandemic influenza visit:
www.pandemicflu.gov
From
the United States Department of Health and Human Services
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