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Will You Be Ready For The Killer Flu?

Tips on actions to consider for flu pandemic preparedness (not "if", but "when")

The London Regional Resilience Team (LRT) announced this week that, this summer, it will exercise the latest version of its Flu Pandemic Response Plan. In this latest estimate, 93,000 people could die in London when the next pandemic breaks out, London Regional Resilience Flu Pandemic Response Plan.


Is it likely to happen?

Although articles on the next flu pandemic have not appeared in our papers yet this year, it does not mean that the likelihood is any less. Based on the cycle of pandemics in the 20th Century, we are overdue with the next one.


But winter’s over for this year, isn’t it?

Pandemic flu is not seasonal. It’s just as likely in a Northern hemisphere summer as in winter. The Department of Health gives a very full explanation on
http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publichealth/Flu/PandemicFlu/index.htm.


How quickly could it have an impact?

The World Health Organisation (WHO) monitors reports on the latest flu strains and will announce to the World when the new strain emerges. Some experts say that 10 days from that announcement, the new flu strain will have infected people in every country in the World.


“So what -- I have always managed to get by when flu strikes the office each year”

The ‘Spanish Flu’ strain of 1918-19 killed 20-40 million people world-wide. There are now many more of us on the planet and international travel is at a speed and volume that was unimaginable 90 years ago. That’s why London is exercising its latest plan.


What actions should I consider?

  • When did your organisation last revise its flu pandemic business continuity plan?
  • Is your plan in line with the new Government and Department of Health Guidance?
  • When did your organisation last exercise its flu pandemic business continuity plan?
  • When did your HR people last review their role in a flu pandemic?
  • When did a specialist consultant last review your plans?

Safer With Ark

For advice or assistance with your flu pandemic plan call us on +44 (0) 20 7397 1450.