Introduction to influenza
PANDEMIC INFLUENZA & CHURCH RESPONSE--The natural history of influenza is well known—essentially, pandemics recur: another pandemic will come. They usually come in waves over a period of 12 to 18 months, each wave lasting from 4 to 12 weeks. We don't know precisely when the next pandemic will occur, but early preparation will help with "regular" emergencies as well. The current strain of avian influenza (H5N1) now present in more than 40 countries in Asia, Europe and Africa appears to be the most likely source from which will arise a next pandemic.
By definition, a pandemic will affect every country, region, and city in the world virtually simultaneously and by definition nobody is immune to it. Governments and health authorities are preparing at a macro level but an eventual response must by necessity occur at the micro level such that every company, organization, and family is well advised to make preparations as well.
The health impact will be great, but there is no need to become paralyzed with fear: while it is estimated that two to seven million worldwide will die, it remains that over 98% of people are expected to survive. Doctors and nurses will be busy caring for the very ill. The mildly and moderately ill will likely need to be cared for at home. The eventual economic and social impact will likely be greater than the actual health impact. New ways of doing business will need to be considered. What churches need to do now:
Pray
Become informed about the pandemic risk and possible responses
Plan for an expanded but very different form of pastoral role in the community
Equip members for formation of small neighbourhood mutual assistance groups
Train members in basic nursing skills
Plan for innovative ways of "doing church"
Consider the fact that health authorities might request the use of church buildings
Pray
For more information
CIDRAP website and Pandemic Preparedness Tools
Canadian Government influenza website