By Staff
Being prepared isn't just a Boy Scout motto. It is wise for communities and nations to be aware of problems which may arise which can affect its citizens.
There also has to be a way to keep media hype from panicking the population unnecessarily and thereby causing other damage which could have been avoided.
The recent news articles about the avian flu has the potential of a serious impact on tourism throughout the world, which in turn can change the economy of nations.
This was seen in 2003, during the SARS scare. With the holidays coming, many people in the world depend on tourism to support their families, from the hotel housekeeping staff, to the restaurant workers, travel agents and others.
The potential avian flu spreading is real and should be monitored, but this possibility shouldn't be used as a “story” on a slow press day.
The United States and other countries of the world should be vigilant and watch developments from scientists as to whether the avian flu becomes transmittable between humans. If this happens, then an alert can be sounded and travel to certain areas curtailed. Until then, let's be prepared, not scared.