A pandemic is a global outbreak that reaches a level of severity above an epidemic. A pandemic typically occurs when a disease or pathogen grows stronger and is spreads widely. This may happen because the pathogen is new or has mutated and become more dangerous, or because people are more susceptible to it.
In the past, severe pandemics have triggered significant social and political upheaval, often because of large mortality shocks that weaken populations. For example, the smallpox pandemic killed up to half of Europeans during its height in the 14th century. Likewise, the plagues, cholera, swine flu and HIV are all known to have caused major disruptions.
The likelihood of a pandemic can be influenced by a variety of factors, including population growth and urbanization, increasing demand for animal protein, habitat loss, climate change and increased interactions between people and animals. Increasingly, health systems are facing challenges in identifying and responding to disease outbreaks quickly and efficiently.
During a pandemic, the best way to protect yourself is to stay home unless instructed otherwise by your doctor. This includes avoiding public transportation and ride-sharing services, and limiting your contacts to those that you know are healthy. If you do have to leave the house, wear a face mask and make sure to wash your hands often. If you have to share a bathroom with others, make sure that each person uses a separate towel and sink. Try to avoid close contact with pets and other household members, as they can carry the virus.
About the Author
