UK flu pandemic could produce "thousand 9/11s"
UK flu pandemic could produce "thousand 9/11s"
Also In The News
|
Nine-man Portugal set up a quarter-final clash with England after a 1-0 win over nine-man Holland in a fiery match in Nuremberg. |  |
Monday, 26, Jun 2006 05:17
Preparations for a flu outbreak in the UK are "woefully inadequate" and could result in a "thousand 9/11s", according to a UK doctor.
Speaking to colleagues at the annual meeting of the British Medical Association (BMA) in Belfast tomorrow, Dr Steve Hajioff will warn that a flu pandemic could have "enormous implications" and will only be effectively tackled if adequate preparations are made now.
Although an emphasis has been placed on the need to stockpile provisions of anti-virals, Dr Hajioff will warn that a greater emphasis should be placed on water, transport and fuel companies to make plans.
According to the Press Association, Dr Hajioff will tell BMA delegates: "We are expecting a real flu pandemic of the kind we have not seen for years and this is one of the biggest catastrophes.
"What's more, it's a totally predictable one but if we act now we can mitigate its effects."
Dr Hajioff will draw attention to the 1918 pandemic, arguing that it affected 40 per cent of the population and killed 2.5 per cent.
"In the present day, you are talking about five million people across Europe and hundreds of thousands in the UK," he will add.
"It's like 1,000 September 11ths all at once."