BCP Program
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The Issue | What You Should Know | How Can EMSS Help?

The Issue

Since 1997, when the first human fatality from H5N1 was recorded, and especially since 2007 when the current outbreak in South Korea began, the world has been following the avian flu, as it has been multiplying unabated in Southeast Asia, Europe, and Africa. The World Health Organization, the Centers For Disease Control, and other infectious disease professionals warn us that we are watching the slow development of the next global pandemic of influenza.

Companies have the unique opportunity to prepare a pandemic response plan now in order to be ready when the next pandemic arrives on our shores. This is not an issue of 'if,' but 'when' avian flu will reach pandemic levels.

What You Should Know

The following is some general information about pandemics:
  • Experts believe another pandemic is inevitable - they just don't know when it will happen. Influenza pandemics have occurred about every 30 to 40 years. The last occurred in 1968.

  • There will be very little warning. Most experts believe that there would be one to six months between the time a new influenza strain is identified and the first U.S. outbreaks.

  • Vaccines will likely not be available for 6 - 12 months (if at all) from the time the organism is identified. An effective vaccine will likely require two doses, 30 days apart.

  • The pandemic will likely occur simultaneously throughout the U.S. and the rest of the world, preventing shifts of resources that normally occur with natural disasters.

  • There will be a prolonged effect on communities - lasting months, possibly as long as a year.

  • Vaccinations, antibiotics, and antivirals (biologics) will be in short supply.

  • Health-care workers and first responders will be at high risk for exposure and illness. This could severely impact the health care system and medical response.

  • There will likely be a shortage of personnel in important sectors, including military, police, fire, and utility workers.

  • There will be a substantial economic impact around the world.
This is an optimal time for a corporation to develop and implement an enterprise-wide Pandemic Plan in an effort to mitigate the company's exposure. Once the pandemic begins, it will likely strike a company office somewhere in the world within weeks, possibly days.

How Can EMSS Help?

Emergency Management and Safety Solutions has been developing pandemic plans for large global companies since early 2003, eight months before the current avian flu outbreak began in South Korea. Since then, EMSS has developed a comprehensive planning process that includes the use of a finely honed template, educational training, and facilitated task force sessions to prepare a company to manage this highly complicated emergency event. EMSS's consultants are skilled planners with many years of experience in various industries, including healthcare, financial services, and emergency management. EMSS consultants will lead your team through the pandemic planning process efficiently and effectively. Contact EMSS today to learn how we can assist you in developing your company's pandemic plan.