HEALTH: Pandemic Influenza

WHAT: Recently, I came across an article published by the World Health Organization about Pandemic Influenza; a pandemic happens when a new kind of influenza starts spreading as easily as the common flu, i.e. by coughing and sneezing. In an age of jet travel, the WHO (World Health Organization, not the rock band that sings "Won't Get Fooled Again") believes that an influenza can reach all continents in as little as three months.

Ten things you need to know about pandemic influenza
1. Pandemic influenza is different from avian influenza.
2. Influenza pandemics are recurring events.
3. The world may be on the brink of another pandemic.
4. All countries will be affected.
5. Widespread illness will occur.
6. Medical supplies will be inadequate.
7. Large numbers of deaths will occur.
8. Economic and social disruption will be great.
9. Every country must be prepared.
10. WHO will alert the world when the pandemic threat increases.

WHY: It's not just developing countries that are affected during a pandemic - in Hong Kong in 1997, 18 people were infected with a new influenza virus and six people died. Support initiatives to strengthen your country's health system, wash your hands, and - please - cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.

http://www.who.int/csr/disease/influenza/pandemic10things/en/

/sms