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Preparing for bird flu pandemic like snow storm in July
The keys to surviving such a pandemic are preparation and prevention. |
Convincing church leaders to prepare for a bird flu pandemic across Indiana can be likened to preparing them for a July snowstorm. Most people just don't believe such a pandemic can happen, however history informs us of the possibility of such a pandemic sweeping across the country in a matter of hours. Are we ready?
During a recent conference in Indianapolis while preparing faith-based communities for such an outbreak of flu, Dr. Crystal Jones, medical director of acute diseases for the Marion County Health Department outlined some historic flu pandemics. She said the most costly was the 1918 Spanish Flu which claimed in the United States alone more than a half-million lives within a half year. Worldwide, it killed more people in 25 weeks than AIDS has killed in 25 years. More recently, the 1957 Asian Flu claimed 70,000 American lives, that's about twice as many people who die from seasonal influenza.
Even though fewer than 300 humans have contracted this new strain of what is known as "bird flu," the death rate has been 60 percent of those who contract the illness. Even though vaccines are being developed for this infamous H5N1 virus, it could mutate leaving millions vulnerable since it takes months to develop a new vaccine. Fortunately, bird flu is being maintained, however like any flu, it is contagious and could spread rapidly.
When the Spanish Flu hit the east coast of the United States, it was detected in Indiana within two days and spread across the state within weeks. With thousands traveling by air and car each day, a vivacious virus could spread world-wide within hours.
If bird flu hits Indiana, health officials predict it could infect from one to two million people or between 15 and 35 percent of our population, creating an absentee rate of 40 percent for weeks. Nearly all spread of influenza is person-to-person. To keep its spread to a minimum, public assemblies, like Sunday worship, might be banned. In 1918 Indiana's churches were open for prayers and individuals worship, but public services were banned including funerals.
Preparation, prevention
The keys to surviving such a pandemic are preparation and prevention. The federal government has already warned local governments that they are on their own for such an outbreak. The better local communities, including churches, prepare for such an outbreak of influenza, the better they will endure and survive such an outbreak, according to public health officials.
The role of churches will be essential, just as the role of faith communities played and continue to play with survivors of Hurricane Katrina along the Gulf Coast. Congregations can work on three levels - member households, the church and the community.
Congregations can assist their families now by sharing information from the Center for Disease Control and prevention with measures to prevent the spread of flu and how to stockpile with enough provisions for two weeks. For information on planning and response, log on to www.pandemicflu.gov and click on "Planning and Response."
Pandemic Flu checklistsFaith-based & Community Organizations Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Checklist |
Local churches can begin now by asking staffs and volunteers to begin preparing for such a pandemic, especially in assisting special needs members such as elderly and disabled members. Churches can play a key role in the current health of their members even now by promoting flu shots and encouraging good respiratory hygiene.
Congregations also can coordinate their efforts with community health organizations. For instance, if the pandemic hits, Indiana's 92 counties will need to immunize every resident within 48 to 72 hours. That will take thousands of volunteers statewide.
Compassion
As the church becomes a priority community agency of care and compassion during any disaster, faith communities will once again be called upon to help with the mental and spiritual health of people during a flu pandemic.
In the meantime, as people of faith, we can begin by informing our members about influenza and preparing for such a disaster just as Jesus warned his followers of the end of Palestine and the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem in Matthew 24 and 25. Remember Jesus' parable of the ten bridesmaids and maybe keep that snow shovel handy this coming summer, too.
- Daniel R. Gangler
Last updated on 25 Apr 2008