Disaster preparedness: Impact of the pandemic by Marilynn Larkin, MA

The COVID-19 pandemic blindsided the world in 2020 with a disaster of unparalleled proportions. No nation was prepared for the devastating illness and the losses of life and income. In North America, skilled nursing centers and long-term care residences such as nursing homes were particularly hard hit, prompting health officials to decide early on that COVID-19 mainly affected “old” people. But the World Health Organization (WHO) said in April what was already becoming known based on new infections rates among young people, namely that this statement is “factually wrong.” Even though age remains an important risk factor, the virus is affecting everyone. Certainly, the pandemic warrants special precautions in terms of disaster preparedness and management. Nonetheless, other disasters--earthquakes, tornadoes and hurricanes, for example--continue to occur and are happening at the same time. ... [O]rganizations need to be prepared for any additional disaster that may strike while still maintaining precautions against COVID-19, and for any pandemic “surges” in infection rates that may require additional protective strategies.