You are correct the term pandemic refers to distribution rather than seriousness, Dev. I am sure you are right the term is often given the wrong emphasis. [Tho' any infectious disease capable of world-wide spread needs to be taken seriously]. My point is one should always be prepared for a serious epidemic as far possible - preparedness is the key. This is why surveillance is important and adequate planning for an outbreak.
Most folks are somewhat prepared for, say, a 'flu epidemic. If they catch 'flu they will know to keep hydrated and will probably have soups and similar things to keep them going, tissues and suitable medication. Hopefully 9/10 you will not need it, but when you do life is so much simpler if you are organised.
'Flusurvey is part of the UK's monitoring process for 'flu-like illnesses. I keep giving it a plug - but hardly anyone has troubled to show any interest so far! Maybe everyone has signed up for it and is just not mentioning that in order to give me a tweak? That must be it.
https://flusurvey.net/
R
Originally Posted by: Roger Parsons