A pandemic is a global outbreak that spreads across countries and continents and affects more people than normal. It also usually causes more illness and death than an epidemic. A virus that starts in animals and then moves to humans is often the cause of a pandemic. For example, the Black Death that killed millions in Europe in the 14th and 17th centuries was spread by fleas that hitched a ride on shipboard rats.
When an outbreak reaches the pandemic stage, WHO will announce it and advise governments worldwide to put into place predetermined disease-control strategies. An epidemic can turn into a pandemic if the virus gets stronger, is spread to a new area, or if it becomes easier for people to catch and pass it on.
During a pandemic, services you normally use may not be available. These include banks, restaurants, and government offices. You may be asked to wear a mask in public places and be sprayed with disinfectant when entering hospitals or other health clinics. You may also be asked to avoid contact with infected persons, including kissing and hugging them. Commonwealth biosecurity laws and state and territory public health and emergency response laws can enforce these measures.
A pandemic can also affect the environment. For example, when people were advised to stay at home and not travel, the pressure on Earth’s natural resources reduced. For a time, beaches were cleaner and fish could be seen again in Venice’s canals.
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