Pandemic
Introduction
A pandemic is an epidemic of an infectious disease that has spread across a large region, for instance multiple continents, or worldwide. A widespread endemic disease with a stable number of infected people is not a pandemic. Widespread endemic diseases with a stable number of infected people such as recurrences of seasonal influenza are generally excluded as they occur simultaneously in large regions of the globe rather than being spread worldwide.
History of Pandemics
Throughout history, there have been a number of pandemics of diseases such as smallpox and tuberculosis. Some of the most deadly pandemics in history include the Black Death and the 1918 influenza pandemic (Spanish flu). The Black Death resulted in the deaths of an estimated 75–200 million people in the 14th century. Its peak in Europe lasted from 1347 to 1351, when it killed an estimated 25 million people, or 30–60% of the European population. The Spanish flu pandemic of 1918–1919 killed tens of millions and sickened hundreds of millions; the loss of this many people in the population caused upheaval and psychological damage to many people.
Causes and Spread
Pandemics occur when a new virus emerges to infect people and can spread efficiently from person to person. Because there is little to no pre-existing immunity against the new virus, it spreads worldwide. The virus causing the pandemic can cause severe disease and spread easily from person-to-person. The disease or condition is not a pandemic just because it is widespread or kills many people; it must also be infectious. For instance, cancer is responsible for many deaths but is not considered a pandemic because the disease is not infectious or contagious.
Prevention and Control
Prevention and control of pandemics are large-scale efforts that require health infrastructure. Vaccination programs, distribution of antiviral drugs in the early stages of a pandemic, and preparation of the health services for the influx of patients are all important measures. In the case of a novel virus, a pandemic vaccine needs to be developed. These vaccines are created by using the virus' genetic sequence data and then growing the virus in eggs or cells. It can take several months for the vaccine to be developed and distributed.
Impact on Society
Pandemics can cause economic damage by disrupting trade, causing worker illness and death, and creating panic which can lead to social disorder. The economic impact of pandemics can be severe. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused tens of trillions of dollars in economic damage. Pandemics can also lead to political instability. For example, the Black Death pandemic is believed to have caused the Peasants' Revolt in England in 1381.