Life During a Pandemic

One can never predict with any accuracy the way a natural catastrophe will unfold. But some speculation about life during the time of a bird flu pandemic seems worthwhile. Things we might see are the following:

1. No country will be fully prepared for the event. This stems from the fact that no government is ever prepared for any natural catastrophe, as such preparations are prohibitively expensive. This means the bulk of the population will not have access to medical treatment when they need it. Families will be required to look after themselves. Only the patients identified in the very first stages of a bird flu pandemic are likely to receive treatment.
2. Medical supplies for combating a bird flu pandemic in the human population will probably be quickly exhausted. Even now, access to such antivirals as Tamiflu is poor in most parts of the world. (In late 2005 the makers of Tamiflu stepped up production to 10 times the normal level in response to worldwide demand for the drug in anticipation of an impending pandemic). Likewise, flu vaccines, which require a long lead time for preparation (six months or more) and can easily be "spoiled" due to inadequate preparation, will not be available in the foreseeable future.
3. Social disruption may be significant. When the loss of workers begins to affect the delivery of food supplies, power, and water, we are suddenly looking at a different kind of emergency scenario--one reminiscent of the scenes that played out in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina struck in 2005. When the services we take for granted every day suddenly disappear, people become desperate and things break down rather quickly. This break down of social order may be the most frightening prospect that an emerging bird flu pandemic could bring about. The government itself warns about this possibility on its own websites, so do take this possibility seriously.
4. Organize or join your Neighborhood Watch. Become aware of any special needs of individuals in your neighborhood. Talk about bird flu and the preparations you are making. Make plans to check on elderly neighbors or people living alone.
5. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about your prescriptions now. Obtaining refills may be difficult if a pandemic occurs. Purchasing 90-day supplies may keep you ahead of the race.
6. Prepare your children for the fact that disasters can occur. Limit their exposure to the news. Children need family members to be calm and available for conversations. Provide information in factual yet simple language appropriate for their age level. Younger children will express their fears through behavior not verbally. Let them talk and listen to their concerns. Assure them that you are doing your best to insure their safety and yours!
7. Remember to provide additional food to help your pets survive an extended stay at home too. There may be a remote chance that your dog or cat could get the bird flu from you. Veterinarians are also being updated on this possibility. The same advice is being given to them about animals as for humans, provide comfort and fluids.