Pandemic Flu in Hawaii: Yesterday and Today

According to the Hawaii’s Department of Health’s website: “A pandemic is a global outbreak that occurs when a new influenza A virus causes serious human illness and spreads easily from person to person.” Kamaaina usually think of hurricanes and tsunamis when they think of disaster preparedness. However, in the early 1900’s as well as today, health issues in the form of a pandemic alert—and not inclement weather—vie for our attention.

In 1918, 1957 and 1968, the world endured three different influenza pandemics. The first of these, “The Great Pandemic of 1918-1919” swept its way across the globe, with three waves of influenza. Final numbers are sketchy, but records indicate that The Great Pandemic resulted in an estimated 20 to 50 million deaths worldwide. In Hawaii, accurate figures are nearly impossible to substantiate. However, mortality rates in Hawaii are estimated to have been anywhere between under 100 to several thousand deaths.

Today, a new flu—Influenza A (H1N1)—also known as the Swine Flu, is positioning itself to become the next pandemic. Fortunately, most cases report generally mild effects. According to the most recent update on the Centers for Disease Control’s website, Hawaii has three confirmed cases of the H1N1 flu, with two more currently being tested.

Cautious optimism that the current outbreak is far milder than past battles with the flu, is being balanced with real concern about the possibly of more serious waves of influenza in the near future and the need for vigilant preparedness by individuals and countries alike. Experts recommend that preparations be made now in the case that a phase 6, or full pandemic should be declared (http://www.who.int/csr/disease/avian_influenza/phase/en/).

So, other than stocking up for water and spam at COSTCO and Longs Drugs, what other steps can you do to prepare for a potential pandemic? A rich array of resources are available online:

Health News & Information:

• Complete news coverage of Swine Flu (H1N1)
• Pandemic Flu Information for Hawaii: State of Hawaii, Department of Health
• The Hawai‘i State Department of Health Swine Flu Information Line:
  (866)767-5044 (toll-free). Staffed by trained professionals
  M-F  7 a.m. to 7 p.m and S-Sun 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
  Recorded messages available seven days a week, 24 hours a day.
• Centers for Disease Control
• World Health Organization

General Preparedness for Individuals and Families:

• Overview of considerations during a pandemic
• Family Guide about Influenza Pandemic
• Preparedness checklists for individuals and families

How have you prepared?

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