Roberta J. WittyWhile we maintain unqualified sensitivity about all the A (H1N1) induced illnesses and deaths that have already occurred, there is a real possibility we may have to create a new classification of pandemic: “widespread, but not that bad.”
One of the central unsolved mysteries of the current A (H1N1) influenza outbreak is: why have there been so many deaths in Mexico (approximately 150) but not elsewhere? Additionally, why do A (H1N1) cases in the other 10 affected nations (as of 30/4/09) seem to be relatively mild?
We should be prepared for a situation where A (H1N1) infections become widespread, but do not automatically present life threatening conditions to those afflicted or can easily be overcome by simply taking anti-viral drugs.
Should this potential pandemic become widespread, but mild in its effect on people, in the future we must anticipate a lessening of executive concern and a reduced level of executive support when seeking for future funding for future medical emergency readiness. “Why should we fund future readiness plans, the last pandemic was “widespread, but not that bad. We spent all that money for nothing.”
In current conversations with executives we suggest discussing the “not that bad” scenario. But at no time should you leave executives with the belief you are predicting this pandemic will only induce a mild illness condition or that future business continuity budgets can be without pandemic response-related funding.
Among the many things that are uncertain in this world are an exact prediction on the future of the economy and the severity and virulence of future viruses.
Recessions are guaranteed in the future, So are pandemics.
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