by W. Diane Van Zwol

Created on: November 05, 2009

H1N1 Infection Control Strategies and Panic Control

In a pandemic, more specifically the spread of the H1N1 virus, the first reaction of many people is to panic. Globally, health care professionals must attempt to share effective, infection control strategies, without inciting panic, as well as deal with the people who are already in a state of panic, because of the pandemic.

This issue becomes increasingly complex. There is panic control needed with respect to the spread of the H1N1 virus, as well as panic control required with respect to those who are frightened, because of the existing pandemic.

First, do not panic.

Where did the word 'panic' originate?

"The word 'panic' derives from the Greek 'pertaining to Pan', because Pan was reputed to give a loud, chaotic, bleeting cry, which disoriented the Titans, in Hesiod's Theogony. "(1)

Who is Pan?

Pan is a figure in Greek mythology and religion. He is "the companion of the nymphs, mythological god of shepherds and flocks, of mountain wilds, hunting and rustic music. His name originates within the Greek language from the word 'paein', meaning 'to pasture'." (2)

One probably does think of the name 'Pan' or the word 'panic', in relation to the expression 'to pasture'. 'Panic' and 'to pasture' would appear to be opposites, but there is room for the use of the word 'panic', in a positive context.

In certain circumstances, a mild degree of panic can prove to be a good thing. It acts as a trigger, that alerts people to the reality of an existing area of concern. In this case, it would be regarding the H1N1 virus. Consider this example as well.

"Pan inspired sudden fear in lonely places, panic (panikon deima). Following the Titans' assault on Olympus, Pan claimed credit for the victory of the gods because he had inspired disorder and fear in the attackers, resulting in the word 'panic', to describe these emotions. Of course, Pan was later known for his music, capable of arousing inspiration, sexuality, or panic, depending on his intentions. In the Battle of Marathon (490 BC, it is said that Pan favored the Athenians and so inspired panic in the hearts of their enemies, the Persians." (3)

In this scenario, panic was the 'instrument' that Pan used to his own advantage, as well to help others. The word 'pan' is also associated with the pan flute, fashioned out of hollow reeds. The pan flute offers a plaintive but soothing note, for those who are in distress. (4)

Globally, with respect to the H1N1 pandemic,

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