Experts say that the next pandemic virus will carry millions of lives. Layfhaker figured out whether it is possible to prepare for a disaster in advance and how to do it correctly.
What is a pandemic?
Pandemic - the rapid spread of a dangerous new disease on a global scale. Throughout history pathogens destroyed millions of people. In XX century, mankind has experienced the three global flu outbreak. The worst of them - the "Spanish flu" - has claimed the lives of 50 to 100 million people, or 3 to 5% of the total population1918 Influenza: the Mother of All Pandemics.
And it may happen in the future?
Today, the disease spread faster than ever. This is due to the growth of cities, the popularity of long-distance travel, lack of sanitation in some countries and the control over the carriers of disease, such as mosquitoes. The most known viruses today - atypical pneumonia, Middle East respiratory syndrome, Ebola virus, and Zeke.
By the pandemic virus can also cause flu. It is readily mutates transmitted by airborne droplets and widely distributed before the first symptoms in the patients.
There is still the likelihood of viral production in bioengineering laboratories. Progress in reading and editing DNA brings such a scenario to reality. According to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, bioterrorism could lead to the death of 30 million people in less than one yearBILL GATES: A new kind of terrorism could wipe out 30 million people in less than a year - and we are not prepared.
Is is possible to prepare for a pandemic?
Can. Federal Emergency Management Agency US situations (FEMA) recommends that food and water for two weeksPandemic. But a pandemic lasts longer than normal flu, so it's best to make a stock for a period of 4 to 6 weeks. Pay attention to the expiration date and do not keep anything perishable.
Expect that every day for one person needs about 4 liters of water.
This is the optimal amount to drink, wash and prepare food. However, where do you keep such a reserve, not FEMA suggests. Perhaps the basement or garage for this purpose will approach.
Stephen Redd (Stephen Redd) of the Center for Control and Prevention recommends that a disease warm blankets and clothing according to the season. And also buy radio on batteries and medications that you take regularly prescribed by a doctor.
According to epidemiologist Mark Smolinski (Mark Smolinski), you can stock up on antiviral drugs to use them in the early stages of flu. However, if taken continuously active ingredients may lose their effectiveness.
Do not forget also about the non-prescription drugs and other useful things: a set of first aid, analgesic, agents for the stomach and cold.
Remember, the less you will leave your home during a pandemic, the more likely to survive.
Make regular seasonal flu shots. This will increase the chances of survival.
What if I'm not going to sit at home during a pandemic?
It should be prepared for the fact that during a pandemic, the work of urban services may be disrupted. Keep your home cash: ATMs may not work. Be prepared for a possible lack of car fuel and gasoline stocks in advance.
Good idea - a special mask to protect against infection. For example, the respirator № 95 blocks more than 95% of small particles that are present in the air. Guys in this case will have harder: mask can abut loosely because bristles or beard. Supplies blade and shaving cream in advance.
But the suit biological and chemical protection - it's too much. To use it correctly, it requires strict adherence to the instructions. It is unlikely that you will have enough time for that and patience.
I learned about the spread of the virus. What to do first?
Get ready for public disorder. Unfortunately, false news and fear can cause panic, even if the epidemic is under control in the community. So first you must ensure the veracity and accuracy of the news.
The next thing you need to do - to find out the specifics of the disease and to take the necessary security measures.
Imagine that somewhere was discovered anthrax. You know that it is transmitted through soil, food and animals, then you need to stay away from the area where the infection occurred, and did not eat anything that is produced there.
If the disease that caused the epidemic, spread by airborne droplets, you should avoid places with large crowds: the metro, airports, railway stations, schools, supermarkets, hospitals.
And if I get sick?
Importantly, do not behave like superrasprostranitel. During the last outbreak of Ebola is only 3% of patients have caused infection 61% of the people from among all infectedSpatial and temporal dynamics of superspreading events in the 2014-2015 West Africa Ebola epidemic.
The responsibility for the spread of the pathogen carries a small amount of people. Therefore, when the first symptoms of disease seek medical attention. If you receive medication and sent home - try to avoid public places.
Otlezhus better at home, so as not to infect others.
Protect loved ones who live with you. At the time of the disease take a separate room if possible and wear a medical mask. Do not forget that the mask collects the virus, so it should be changed every 2-3 hours. Otherwise, the risk of proliferation grow.
What else can I do for society?
In addition, to stay away from people and stay home, FEMA recommends not forget these simple steps: wash your hands frequently, try to cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze.
It is difficult to understand how the epidemic will last a long time, but it can be returned by a series of relapses. At best, scientists have developed a vaccine or drug to treat the virus, but there are no guarantees.
It is possible that the disease will remain free for a long time, as HIV and many other diseases that have become familiar to us.
These tips will definitely help me?
No one knows exactly what will work in your situation, but precautions are not exactly hurt. It is important to take into account the potential threat. Otherwise, the virus would catch mankind unawares.