Epidemic: Consequences
Pandemics can last six to eight weeks as they come and go and can cause illness, death, social disruption, and economic loss.
Death rates are determined by four factors: number infected, virulence of the virus, vulnerability of affected populations, and effectiveness of preventive measure.
According to the U.S. Department of Health & Services, death rates are determined by four factors: number infected, virulence of the virus, vulnerability of affected populations, and effectiveness of preventive measure.
Pandemics can cause schools and businesses to close and impact basic services such as public transportation and food delivery. Health care facilities are often overwhelmed as staff, beds, and other supplies are highly demanded. When there is a shortage of antiviral drugs, decisions will have to be made about who gets the vaccines.
Finally, a pandemic can cause economic loss through worker absenteeism. Victims are directly impacted while people either care for sick family members or stay at home for fear of exposure to diseases.
Sources Consulted
Sources
- "General Information." Pandemic Flu. US Dept. of Health & Human Services. 14 Mar. 2006 <http://www.pandemicflu.gov/>.
- Rossi, Vanessa, and John Walker. Assessing the Economic Impact and Costs of Flu Pandemics Originating in Asia. Oxford Economic Forecasting Group. Oxford: Abbey House, 2005. <http://www.l20.org/publications/Phase%20III/Pandemics/geneva.rossi_walker.pdf>.
- "Stages of an Epidemic." Pandemic Influenza. 17 Oct. 2005. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, US Dept. of Health and Human Services. 14 Mar. 2006 <http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pandemic/phases.htm>.
- World Health Organization. United Nations. 14 Mar. 2006 <http://www.who.int/en/>