 |
 |
 |
||||||
 |
|
| |
|
|
||||||
| |
|
 |
 |
|
Avian Flu Is Still a Threat
While the media buzz about Avian Flu died down in 2005, this disease is still a large threat to not just travelers, but people throughout the world. Scientists predict that a pandemic resulting in 2 million – 7.4 million deaths (World Health Organization) is likely to occur in the near future, possibly stemming from the Avian Flu virus.
Why the Avian Flu? In order for a pandemic to occur, three criteria must be fulfilled. At this point, the Avian Flu meets two of the three conditions: 1) it affects humans and causes illness; 2) there is little or no human immunity; and 3) it spreads easily and consistently among humans. The Avian Flu does not yet spread easily and consistently among humans, but there is little human immunity against this disease. There is concern that the virus could interact with an existing human flu virus and mutate into something easily transmissible among people.
Chances are, if a mutation occurs, the global economy will be impacted. The World Bank estimates that a flu pandemic would cost $800 billion in a single year. Thousands of people will not be able to come into work, either due to illness or due to fear of catching the disease, and almost a quarter of the population is expected to be affected. Such conditions could last longer than a year. Is your business prepared?
Because Avian Flu is a global health concern, MEDEX Global Group is monitoring the situation carefully. If you have travelers going to destinations that are known locations for human cases of Avian Flu, you may wish to use MEDEX resources to educate them about the disease. Being prepared can not only keep your travelers healthy while abroad, but it can help limit the spread of this deadly disease.
Visit the MEDEX Avian Flu & Pandemic Planning Center and stay apprised of the status and evolution of the Avian Flu and other pandemic concerns.
Home | Site Map | About Us | Who We Serve | Advice & Info | News Room | Contact Us | Privacy Statement |
|||||
 |
|||||
|
Register for Free daily email alert.
Read how MEDEX helped these travelers
How to Protect Your Travelers from Political and Security Threats
Read important travel, medical and security news - with updates from MEDEX and our clients.
