by Leanne Coffman

Created on: April 28, 2009

Much news space has been given lately to the topic of a Pandemic, or "Global Disease Outbreak." What are the implications for the workplace? How should employers prepare for this situation? Is there a serious threat posed to businesses?

Because employers have an important role in providing a safe and healthy working environment for their workers, it is vital to understand key issues regarding this topic.

Statistically, every century a pandemic occurs three to four times, sweeping the world with fractured transportation, overwhelmed hospitals, shortages on essential goods and services and business shutdowns. The longest recorded period of time between pandemic episodes has been 42 years. As of 2009, we are entering our 41st year without a pandemic.

In the years 1918-1919, the world experienced the most deadly pandemic. U.S. deaths alone were estimated at more than 500,000. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the other two pandemics in that century, (1957-58 & 1968) killed 70,000 and 34,000 respectively. Depending on the strain of flu, a moderate flu outbreak could cause 200,000 deaths in the U.S., serious outbreaks could result in substantially higher mortality rates.

There are both high and low pathogen influenza viruses. High pathogen Avian Flu (H5N1) has the greatest capacity for harm to humans. However, cases spread from person to person are very rare. Typically, those infected have been in direct contact with infected birds or contaminated surfaces. Avian Flu, (H5N1), is not the virus associated with the recent outbreak.

Pandemic Influenza is considered a worldwide outbreak of a new strain of virus, which rapidly infects humans and quickly spreads person to person. The current virus, which began in Mexico, is a new combination of swine, human and bird pathogens and has demonstrated great potential for becoming a pandemic.

Unlike Seasonal Influenza, (which has vaccines typically prepared in anticipation), a Pandemic Influenza vaccine may not be readily available for as long as six to nine months after the virus has begun to spread.

Manufactures of vaccines are limited. If a serious pandemic occurs- thus disrupting transportation and provoking absenteeism- it may further inhibit the availability in the timely dispensing of vaccines.

In the event that a serious pandemic manifests itself, an employer needs to consider the following:

* Changes in commerce patterns: An increase in goods related to infection control may transpire. A decline

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