July 15, 2006
What is a pandemic?
A pandemic is the rapid spread of any infection over a wide geographic area affecting a large proportion of the population. An example is the Spanish Flu pandemic of l918, which caused the deaths of 20-50 million people worldwide.
Why be prepared?
It is not known when or if H5N1 will cause the next pandemic, but by preparing we can reduce the impact to our families and villages.
Hurricane Katrina and the Asian Tsunami demonstrated the fact that we can never be too prepared. Planning for a pandemic or any disaster that might isolate our communities and burden our local resources should always be high on our priority list. A pandemic or any disaster could isolate our villages from outside help for an extended period of time.
The better we are prepared for the possibility of circumstances like limited food, medications, disruption of family structure, care for the sick, and limited transportation, the better our communities will be able to cope and recover during a time of crisis.
How would the YK Delta respond to a pandemic?
In preparation for the possibility of a pandemic, organizations in the YK Delta have joined together to plan a coordinated response.
These organizations include the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation, the Association of Village Council Presidents, Bethel Regional Public Health Center, Bethel Family Clinic, other departments from the State of Alaska, and local emergency responders.
Our goal is to keep the people of the YK Delta informed with the most accurate information about any developments or risks associated with the H5N1 "bird flu" or any other possible pandemic that could impact the people of the YK Delta. In the event of a pandemic, our planning committee is focused on assuring a coordinated response and recovery to our villages in the YK Delta.
What can I do to protect my family if a natural disaster or pandemic flu comes to this area?
- Get involved; ask your family and community (work, church, tribe, etc.) about preparedness plans and recommendations to help increase survivability if a disease or natural disaster should occur.
- Develop and share lists of local hunters, first responders, search and rescue teams, or any other group that is available to provide support.
- Have enough supplies for you and your family for two to eight weeks - water, food, nonprescription and other prescription medications, heat and light sources in case of power outages, daily usable items such as toilet paper, garbage bags, batteries, baby formula, disposable diapers --anything you may need if you can not get to a store or if the store is out of supplies.
General guidelines for infection control are always applicable. These include:
- Wash your hands with soap and water
- Cover you mouth when coughing and sneezing
- Stay home from work or school if you have symptoms or are sick.
- Keep your immunizations up to date, including your annual flu shot.
1. The World Health Organization where you can find a link to their Avian Influenza Coverage.
2. The Center for Disease Control and look for their Pandemic Flu Link.
3. State of Alaska Department of Public Health.