Pandemic Planning

A pandemic, by definition, is an epidemic (sudden outbreak of disease) which spreads rapidly over a wide geographic area, affecting an exceptionally high proportion of the population: a global disease outbreak.

As with other naturally occurring situations such as hurricanes, tornados or earthquakes, planning and preparedness is critical. Because of the potential scope of such events, individual and local plans are key to maintaining the public health. Bridgewater State College has a Pandemic Planning Committee which meets regularly to discuss a range of issues and develop protective measures for the college campus and community. A letter to the Bridgewater State College community is available.

The history of epidemiology, especially regarding the Spanish flu of 1918, informs us of the cyclic nature of epidemics and pandemics, as well of the types of infectious agents that might be most lethal. Currently, there is global concern regarding a strain of influenza A virus occurring, thus far, in the Middle East called high pathogenicity avian influenza, HPAI. Predominantly a bird virus, it has caused some human death as a result of direct contact with diseased birds. The scientific community continues to struggle to ascertain and anticipate genetic change in this virus that might lead to efficient human-to-human transmission.

Whether the potential pandemic is this virus or some infectious agent of the future, it is our responsibility to prepare our ourselves, families, and communities. A pandemic with prolonged and widespread outbreaks could require temporary changes in many areas of society, such as schools, work, transportation, and other public services. Stocking up on food, water, supplies and medications at home is the beginning to this pandemic planning process. A checklist for individuals can be found at this site.

Ways to be prepared:

• Stay Healthy
  • Avoid contact with individuals who are sick or showing symptoms of illness Practice good hygiene (don’t touch your eyes or mouth).
  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
  • Put used tissues in a waste basket.
  • Cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve if you don’t have a tissue.
  • Clean your hands after coughing or sneezing.
  • Use soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
  • Stay at home if you are sick.
  • Eat a balanced diet which contains a variety of foods, including plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grain products. Also include low-fat dairy products, lean meats, poultry, fish, and beans.
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Limit salt, sugar, alcohol, and saturated fat.
  • Exercise on a regular basis and get plenty of rest.
  • Get a flu shot to help protect yourself from seasonal flu.
• A seasonal flu shot may not directly protect you against pandemic influenza, it can help you stay healthy.
• Knowing the facts is the best preparation.
• Reliable, accurate, and timely information is available at the U.S. Government avian and pandemic flu information.
• Another source for information on pandemic influenza is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Hotline at: 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636). This line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Look for information from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

Last Modified: October 13, 2006