Pandemic Influenza Poses a Greater Risk than Seasonal Influenza.
Pandemic influenza is different from seasonal influenza because it occurs when a new strain of influenza emerges that can be transmitted easily from person-to-person and for which people have no immunity.
Unlike seasonal influenza, which typically affects the frail and sick, pandemic influenza could present as much risk to the young and healthy.
Most experts agree that the question is not if another flu pandemic will occur, but when. The currently circulating influenza (H5N1) virus has the potential to cause such an event.
The Federal Government is closely monitoring an avian influenza virus known as H5N1. This influenza strain has infected domesticated birds, including chickens, and also migratory and other wild birds in 50 countries across Asia, Europe, and Africa. It has also infected more than 200 people worldwide.
Today, H5N1 Avian Influenza primarily affects birds. This does not signal the start of a pandemic. Unless people come into direct contact with infected birds, it is unlikely they will contract the disease.
There are no reported cases of sustained human-to-human transmission of the current strain of avian flu. If the virus develops the capacity for sustained human-to-human transmission, however, it could spread quickly around the world. Regardless of whether a pandemic occurs in the next year or the next 50 years, it is critical to prepare for this eventuality now.
The private sector must prepare. The private sector, with targeted and timely guidance from the Federal Government, should develop plans to provide essential services even in the face of sustained and significant absenteeism. Businesses should also integrate their planning into their communities' planning.
Does Your Company Have a Plan? Get started by downloading the Business Pandemic Influenza Planning Checklist from The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (Requires Adobe Acrobat or Acrobat Reader). Then contact us for an immediate, no-obligation consultation.
