Planning for a Pandemic

Planning for a Pandemic

Planning for a pandemic seems unimportant and even silly at first. However, the truth is planning may be one of the most important things you can do for the people you love. There are many steps to be taken in order to be prepared for a possible pandemic outbreak; such as, being informed about influenza, having a family plan, gathering supplies, prepared for the economic impact, activities concerning entertainment and ongoing education, if someone gets sick. These are all things that every family and individual should be aware of and be prepared to take action.

There are many misconceptions about what the flu actually is, the flu is a respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. The flu is not the same as a cold, though they share many of the same symptoms (Watson par 1). There is no such thing as the stomach flu. The term "stomach flu" is actually a misnomer. Vomiting, diarrhea and stomach aches can be caused by a virus, but they are rarely related to the flu. The flu is a respiratory illness, not a gastrointestinal one (Watson). When the influenza virus gets into the body, it moves into the respiratory tract. Once there, it binds to the surface of the cells. The virus then opens and releases its genetic information (RNA, ribonucleic acid) into the cell's nucleus. The nucleus is where the cell's genetic information (DNA and RNA) is stored. The virus replicates, or copies itself, and takes over the functions of the cell. The copies of the virus move to the cell membrane until the cell finally dies and releases them out into the body, where they go on to infect other cells (Watson par.1) The fact that the virus copies itself and takes over functions of other cells makes it impossible to find a cure for. It is important to understand what influenza is and the possible effects it may have on families and individuals.

You can be tested for influenza, a vaccine, medication and masks can be useful in case of an outbreak. Scientists have developed an inexpensive test that detects H5N1 infections quickly and Accurately (National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases). This new test, MChip, is based on a single gene segment that mutates less often than the flu genes typically used in diagnostic tests. Unlike current tests, it creates a way to simultaneously screen large numbers of flu samples to learn both the type and subtype of virus (pandemicflu.gov). Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to minimize suffering and death from influenza. Research efforts have led to the development of a vaccine for one of the two strains of the H5N1 influenza virus in humans. In the event of a pandemic, it could take months to develop an effective vaccine (pandemicflu.gov). Research is on going for an antiviral medication. An antiviral medication would be used to prevent or cure a disease caused by the virus and the use of masks and respirators is in question. A mask or respirators would be used as a protective guard against germs and small particles, which could contain the virus. The face masks should only be used once and then thrown away, if you have heart, or lung disease or other heath conditions, you may have trouble breathing though respirators and you should talk with your doctor before using a respirator. (pandemicflu.gov)

In 1918 in the case of the Spanish Flu it is said that more people died due to the influenza pandemic than in World War 1 (RHNA par.1) Having a family and or personal plan is a vital key to surviving a pandemic. Everyone who is included in your plan be informed of a contact person, in case someone is missing from the family or hospitalized also have a meeting place. At your meeting place, you need to have enough water approximately two gallons per person per day, ready to eat meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, beans, and soups, dry cereal, peanut butter, crackers, and other nonperishable foods. Toiletries are of a great importance also; have toilet paper, paper towels, anti bacterial soap and, facial tissues. Any prescription medication should be current and an extra supply stored along with a first aid, medical supply kit. If someone at home should get turn ill it is necessary to know how to take care of them, and if possible get him or her emergency care immediately.

In the worst-case scenario you will not be able to leave