Flu pandemic would hit Hawaii, Nevada hardest
Associated Press
WASHINGTON ? States that rely on tourism and entertainment for much of their economy would likely be the hardest hit during a severe bird flu pandemic. Nevada and Hawaii are at the top of the list, according to a report released today.
The Trust for America's Health projected a $683 billion economic loss nationally during a pandemic, which is about 5.5 percent of the goods and services produced in the United States. The number is comparable to a previous analysis conducted for Congress, but the latest report is the first to break down the impact by state.
Nevada's economy could take a hit of more than 8 percent, while Hawaii's economic output could fall by about 6.6 percent. Four other states -- Alaska, Wyoming, Nebraska and Louisiana -- also stand to take hits of greater than 6 percent in their gross domestic product.
There have been three pandemics during the past century in the United States. A pandemic comparable to the most serious -- in 1918 -- could sicken 90 million people and kill about 2 million.
Associated Press
WASHINGTON ? States that rely on tourism and entertainment for much of their economy would likely be the hardest hit during a severe bird flu pandemic. Nevada and Hawaii are at the top of the list, according to a report released today.
The Trust for America's Health projected a $683 billion economic loss nationally during a pandemic, which is about 5.5 percent of the goods and services produced in the United States. The number is comparable to a previous analysis conducted for Congress, but the latest report is the first to break down the impact by state.
Nevada's economy could take a hit of more than 8 percent, while Hawaii's economic output could fall by about 6.6 percent. Four other states -- Alaska, Wyoming, Nebraska and Louisiana -- also stand to take hits of greater than 6 percent in their gross domestic product.
There have been three pandemics during the past century in the United States. A pandemic comparable to the most serious -- in 1918 -- could sicken 90 million people and kill about 2 million.