What is a pandemic? How can we prepare for it?

We've all experienced a lot because of the COVID-19 pandemic, haven't we? The whole world seemed to come to a standstill, many people lost their loved ones, and our lives were completely changed. So, what exactly is a "pandemic" that has shaken the entire world like this? How does it affect our lives? Let's talk about this simply, in our own language.

What exactly is a pandemic?

Simply put, a pandemic is a new disease that spreads rapidly around the world. Think of it like a fire that starts in a small area. It starts small and then spreads like wildfire. To become a pandemic, the disease must spread to many countries, perhaps even continents, at once.

Often, these types of pandemics occur when a new virus, like the `(Coronavirus)` that causes COVID-19, begins to spread among people. Because these viruses are new to our bodies, our bodies do not have immunity to fight them. That is why these viruses are easily transmitted to us. Also, in the early stages, we do not have a vaccine or a perfect medicine for such a new virus. It takes a while for doctors to figure out what this virus is, how it spreads, and how to control it.

What is the difference between 'Pandemic' and 'Epidemic'?

Two words we often hear are `Pandemic` and `Epidemic`. It is very important to know the difference between these two.

Simply put, an epidemic is the spread of a disease that is limited to a certain area or country and is more widespread than expected. For example, in our country, dengue fever sometimes spreads to epidemic proportions. But it is limited to Sri Lanka.

However, a pandemic is when a disease crosses those boundaries and spreads throughout the world. That is, if an epidemic cannot be controlled and spreads throughout the world, it becomes a pandemic.

This table will make the difference clearer to you.

The worst pandemics in history

Throughout human history, there have been many devastating epidemics. Let's take a look at some of them.

Bubonic Plague - "Black Death"

It spread across Europe, Asia, and Africa between 1346 and 1353. It is considered the worst plague in history. The disease was transmitted to humans by fleas on the bodies of rats. It is reported that more than 200 million people died as a result.

Spanish Flu - 1918

This was a severe pandemic caused by the `( H1N1 Influenza )` virus. About 50 million people died from it. A large number of young and healthy people were especially affected by it.

HIV/AIDS

AIDS , caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus ( HIV ), which was identified in the 1980s, is a global pandemic. More than 36 million people have died from it so far. Although there is currently no cure, it can be controlled with medication.

COVID-19

We all know about the ``Coronavirus`` pandemic that began in China in late 2019. It spread across the world in a very short time, claiming the lives of millions.

How do we prepare for a future pandemic?

"Will there be another pandemic?" you may be wondering. In fact, experts say that there is a possibility of another pandemic in the future. We can't say exactly what virus it will be or when it will come. But we can prepare for such a situation now.

Preparing on a personal level

• Be aware of how infections spread: By being aware of how diseases are spread through things like coughing, sneezing , and touching , you can protect yourself from them.
• Prepare some essentials for your home: It is a good habit to keep food, drinks, and medicine at home that can last for a few days or weeks in case of an emergency.
• Make a plan with your family: Talk to your family about what to do and how to help each other if a pandemic occurs.

Follow these habits to stay healthy.

These are habits that are important not only during the pandemic, but always.

• Get vaccinated on time: Get all government-recommended vaccines, especially the flu vaccine, on time.
• Stay home if you are sick: If you have symptoms like a fever or cold , stay home and rest to stop infecting others.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water: Wash your hands thoroughly, especially before eating, after using the bathroom, and after coming from outside. Use a hand sanitizer when handwashing facilities are not available.
• Wear a mask in public places: During times of respiratory illness, wearing a mask on public transportation and in public places will protect you and others.
• Maintain social distancing: Stay away from people who are sick.