History

In the 20th Century - There Were Three Pandemics

1918     Spanish Flu: 500,000 deaths in the United States and at least 50 million deaths worldwide
1957     Asian Flu: 70,000 deaths in the United States and up to 2 million deaths worldwide
1968     Hong Kong Flu: 34,000 deaths in the United States and 700,000 deaths worldwide

A pandemic is an epidemic occurring worldwide or over a very wide area, crossing international boundaries and usually affecting large numbers of people.

Characteristics and Challenges of a Pandemic
Some pandemics are mild.  Some are fierce.  If the virus replicates much faster than the immune system learns to defend against it, this can cause severe and sometimes fatal illness.  The next pandemic could sicken 1 in every 3 people on the planet.

Rapid Worldwide Spread

• For example, should a pandemic flu virus emerge, a global spread is considered inevitable
• Preparedness activities should assume that the entire world population would be susceptible

• A substantial percentage of the world's population will require some form of medical care.  Infection and illness rates are expected to soar
• Death rates may be high due to:
  • the number of people who become infected
  • the strength of the virus
  • the underlying characteristics and vulnerability of affected populations
  • the effectiveness of preventive measures

• The need for vaccine is likely to occur
• There is a current shortage of effective anti-viral drugs
• A pandemic can create a shortage of hospital beds and/or medical supplies
• Difficult decisions will need to be made regarding who gets limited anti-viral drugs and vaccines

• Travel bans, closing of schools and businesses and cancellations of events could have a major impact on communities and citizens
• Care for sick family members and fear of exposure could result in significant worker absenteeism