IMO This is not just another Y2K, Swine Flu, government or media-crying-wolf-again situation.
I might have actually believed that myself had I not previously read a chapter of The Great Influenza: The Story of the Deadliest Plague in History, by John M Barry. My own copy arrived recently, from Powell’s and I’m about half way through it. (diary to come later)
I would highly recommend reading of this book particularly if you are inclined to discount the possible severity of an avian pandemic. I sincerely believe that it is a necessity to educate ourselves on this issue.
As we have seen with our gov/FEMA response to Katrina, it is not likely we will be getting much help from that quarter. I think we will be on our own on this one and we ought to plan accordingly.
more:
Flu Pandemic to be discussed on Oprah
Bird Flu: The Untold Story (PG)
You’ve heard reports, but is it really headed our way? How dangerous is it and can it be stopped? What you need to know now to protect your family. A huge eye-opener!
Oprah’s guest is Michael T. Osterholm , Dr. Osterholm is director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP)
Many lives will depend on this man’s ability. This will be an opportunity for us to assess his capabilities.
Local listings for Oprah’s show here
Feel free to post to dKos. I’ve not got the energy for it.