This book introduces readers to the most critical global and domestic issues regarding a potential pandemic. Featuring the contributions of thirteen leading experts, this crucial volume arms planners and responders with an understanding of outbrea containment and response planning, providing a detailed analysis of our present capabilities and potential weaknesses. The first section reviews the history of pandemics and discusses the deadly 1918 Spanish flu. The middle chapters examine the biology of the virus and the clinical aspects of influenza, with special attention given to Avian Influenza. The final chapters examine the international and federal programs and discuss response at the local level, including service continuation planning and fatality management.

Past pandemics and their outcome / Jeffrey R. Ryan -- The Spanish flu of 1918 / Linda M. Olson -- Natural history of the influenza virus / Jeffrey R. Ryan -- Clinical aspects of influenza / Allen W. Kirchner -- Avian influenza / James C. Wright, Kenneth E. Nusbaum, and James G.W. Wenzel -- Federal and international programs and assets / Jane Thomas Cash and Martha Griffith Lavender -- Defining the response at the local level / Jeffrey R. Ryan and Jan F. Glarum -- Service continuation planning for businesses / Onalee Grady-Erickson -- Fatality management during a pandemic / Lori J. Hardin and John P. Ahrens -- Epilogue: Putting it all together / Jeffrey R. Ryan and Jan F. Glarum.