Biology

According to the World Health Organization in their Pandemic Preparedness article, a disease epidemic occurs when there are more cases of that disease than normal. A pandemic is a worldwide epidemic of a disease.1 More specifically, an epidemic is a temporary increase of the occurrence of a disease or disorder affecting man to a great extent that indicates an imbalance in the forces regulating the occurrence of the disease in the population. The affirmation of its existence is based on the comparison of the number of cases presently occurring with the number of cases considered as usual for that place in a specific age group at a given time. For example, a rise in the number of diseases is not alarming if it coincides with the season that is considered normal for that disease.

Presently, with the current trends in globalization wherein global transport is no longer impossible and trading of goods and services occurs worldwide, a pandemic is typically to occur and spread faster. Urbanization likewise results in the congestion of cities that serves as the center of economics and commerce and results in overcrowding in some areas that further facilitate the spread of diseases.

On the other hand, modernization and developments in medicine also has a positive effect in the control and eradication of diseases. Before, pandemics and epidemics resulted in many deaths and social disruption. Now, with good surveillance and monitoring of diseases worldwide, people are more prepared and aware on the proper control and prevention of diseases. Vaccines have also been developed that has been proven effective in the eradication of deadly diseases as exemplified by the eradication of the smallpox virus as well as the control of many diseases through immunization programs for children.

In summary, if a pandemic occurs today it is expected to spread rapidly due to globalization. On the other hand, such diseases can also be controlled and prevented with proper surveillance and health practices through the combined efforts of people worldwide.