
Pandemics and Epidemics
Today's interconnected world makes it easier for diseases to spread rapidly, and over great distances. Lately, talk of epidemics and pandemics frequent the headlines. While such news can be scary, the right information is important for understanding how to keep yourself healthy and eliminate unnecessary fears.
What Are Pandemics and Epidemics?
Whether the spread of disease is classified as a pandemic or epidemic depends on how many people are affected. Find out more about these health situations with the resources recommended below.
Top Sites for Learning About Pandemics and Epidemics
WebMD reviews the differences between disease outbreaks, epidemics and pandemics. This article also examines the different phases of pandemics described by the World Health Organization, and the Pandemic Severity Index from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Encyclopedia Britannica explains the frequency with which pandemics and epidemics occur, and also discusses the response prompted by the emergence of the H1N1, or “swine flu” virus.
National Geographic provides a short review of flu epidemics and discusses the importance of vaccines in controlling the spread of disease. Don’t miss the videos about the global spread of diseases like West Nile Virus, HIV and more, as well as the article, “Tracking The Next Killer Flu.”
Scientific American offers a lengthy article focusing on the spread of disease in Africa, focusing specifically on how infections could move from animals to humans.
Historic Pandemics
Health officials and historians often rely on information from the past when planning to prevent ... read more »
Preventing and Controlling Epidemics and Pandemics
People around the world have shown great interest in learning how to keep diseases from spreading, ... read more »
News About Epidemics and Pandemics
It can be quite unnerving to hear talk of potential epidemics or pandemics on the news. Find ... read more »