Flu Epidemic Goes Global
May 19, 2001
Scientists are worried about the possibility of a new influenza pandemic. It is believed by many medical health professionals that an influenza epidemic will return and infect not just the United States, but the rest of the world, as well. Much like the Spanish flu in 1918 that killed 40 million people worldwide, a new pandemic of influenza is possibly about to begin. In the United States alone, experts predict that a possible 89,000 to 207,000 people will die from influenza when the pandemic occurs. This is also damaging to commerce in the United States, due to the fact that it will take an estimated 71.3 billion dollars or more to treat and care for flu patients.
Doctors believe that specific precautions need to be made in order to prepare for this approaching problem. One suggestion is to stock pile medications. Other doctors believe that flu vaccinations will be the best way to protect citizens. One problem with vaccinations is that many health care professionals fear that there is an insufficient supply of vaccines. Some doctors suggest that antiviral drugs will be the best treatment, as there is not the added concern of a supply shortage.
The World Health Organization (WHO) still believes that vaccines will be the best choice. However, the WHO is working with manufacturers such as GlaxoSmithKine and Roche to discuss antiviral drug production. Relenza and Tamiflu are two such drugs used to fight influenza. Both drugs were still in medical trials during the initial conference with the World Health Organization.
The bottom line is that a pandemic is coming, and The World Health Organization is well aware that the best solution is excellent prevention. This will include manufacturing ample supplies of flu vaccines and antiviral medications.
-- Article Courtesy of InjuryBoard.com
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