Op-Ed: Avian Flu: A Call For Precaution, But Not For Panic

Recent media reports of the avian influenza, or "bird flu," would cause one to believe a catastrophic pandemic is upon us. Thankfully, the world is not experiencing a pandemic, nor do experts believe one is imminent. The threat of a pandemic is no more real today than it was eight years ago, when public health authorities first identified a human case of the virus that causes avian flu. While we should take the possibility of a pandemic seriously and prepare ourselves for an unlikely major outbreak, there is no need for panic.

In announcing his $7.1 billion request for funds to prepare for a pandemic, President George W. Bush said, "At this point, we do not have evidence that a pandemic is imminent." According to Dr. Julie Louise Gerberding, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "Right now, the H5N1 avian flu is primarily a problem for birds. It is not a pandemic and there is no evidence at the current time that it will ever be a pandemic."

During the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome epidemic of 2003, many people postponed or canceled trips, primarily to and from Asia. Travel to Canada likewise plummeted, even though only Toronto experienced an outbreak of the disease. In some communities in the United States, people stopped patronizing certain restaurants—despite the fact that SARS never became a public health threat in this country, and there was absolutely no evidence linking SARS to such establishments.

Not only airlines, but also the businesses that depend on air travel—hotels, restaurants and international trade and tourist attractions—suffered disproportionately. While the numbers are hard to pin down, it is clear that the economic devastation brought on by SARS far outstripped the scope of the illness.

Neither the CDC nor the World Health Organization has recommended that the public avoid traveling to any of the countries affected by the avian flu, and other than a sensible warning to avoid poultry farms and bird markets, neither organization has suggested that people change their travel plans.

What advice do medical professionals give travelers? Keep routine immunizations up to date, make sure food is thoroughly cooked and regularly wash your hands. In short, follow the advice that your doctor has been giving you for years.

Our government is taking the possibility of an influenza pandemic seriously and, in an abundance of precaution, is taking steps to ensure we will be able to respond when and if one occurs. So, please go about your business, take your vacation, visit your family and enjoy the holidays in good health.