What would be the Impact of a Pandemic?
PandemicFlu.gov (US Department of Health & Human Services)
http://www.pandemicflu.gov/general/index.html#impact
A pandemic may come and go in waves, each of which can last for six to eight weeks.
An especially severe influenza pandemic could lead to high levels of illness, death, social disruption, and economic loss. Everyday life would be disrupted because so many people in so many places become seriously ill at the same time. Impacts can range from school and business closings to the interruption of basic services such as public transportation and food delivery.
Pandemics Death Toll Since 1900 This as per the CDC.
1918-1919
- U.S....675,000+
Worldwide...50,000,000+
1957-1958
- U.S....70,000+
Worldwide...1-2,000,000
1968-1969
- U.S....34,000+
Worldwide...700,000+
A substantial percentage of the world's population will require some form of medical care. Health care facilities can be overwhelmed, creating a shortage of hospital staff, beds, ventilators and other supplies. Surge capacity at non-traditional sites such as schools may need to be created to cope with demand.
The need for vaccine is likely to outstrip supply and the supply of antiviral drugs is also likely to be inadequate early in a pandemic. Difficult decisions will need to be made regarding who gets antiviral drugs and vaccines.
Death rates are 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 availability and effectiveness of preventive measures
How are We Preparing?
The United States has been working closely with other countries and the World Health Organization (WHO) to strengthen systems to detect outbreaks of influenza that might cause a pandemic. See Global Activities.
The effects of a pandemic can be lessened if preparations are made ahead of time. Planning and preparation information and checklists are being prepared for various sectors of society, including information for individuals and families. See Planning & Response Activities.
HHS and other federal agencies are providing funding, advice, and other support to your state to assist with pandemic planning and preparation. Information on state/federal planning and cooperation, including links to state pandemic plans, is available on this site. See State & Local Planning.
The federal government will provide up-to-date information and guidance to the public through the public media and this web site should an influenza pandemic unfold.