Are the media and the general public just overreacting?
It is good for many people to be concerned about the possibility of a pandemic so that we properly prepare ourselves. There is no way to know how severe a pandemic will be, but if we are prepared, we can minimize the effects of a pandemic. • Are our hospitals ready for a pandemic of flu? They are better prepared than ever. Contingency plans are in place in case they need more room for patients. Like everyone, hospitals need to continue to prepare and plan. • In a pandemic, will sick people be asked to stay away from others? Yes. People will be encouraged to stay away from school and work if they are sick. During flu season, you are less likely to get sick if you avoid gatherings of people, and the same would be true during a pandemic. • Will the military be quarantining people in MD? That probably won’t be necessary. There may be roles for the National Guard, such as helping with the surge on healthcare facilities, or even simple things like helping to deliver supplies. • Will schools
