An epidemic occurs when a disease infects many people at the same time. A pandemic is the spread of an epidemic between many countries. The most likely cause of a pandemic in New Zealand is a new strain of influenza (‘the flu’).
An epidemic occurs when a disease infects many people at the same time. A pandemic is the spread of an epidemic between many countries. The most likely cause of a pandemic in New Zealand is a new strain of influenza (‘the flu’), as seen in 1918-19 when over 8500 people died.
A pandemic would impact on all services as many people would need to stay away from others and businesses may be temporarily closed by health officials to stop the disease spreading. Emergency services, food distribution, power and telecommunications would all be affected during a pandemic.
Have a plan and be prepared in case you need to stay at home during a pandemic. You and your family may be so sick that you cannot leave the house for several weeks. Keep contact details for friends, family and neighbours so you can call them if you need help.