Heeding warnings that millions of people would likely die if there is a worldwide flu pandemic, U.S. officials are busily seeking ways to contain and minimize the effects of such an illness. Much attention has focused on vaccines with calls for government production facilities and liability waivers to encourage private companies to return to the vaccination business. Both are worthy of further consideration, but placing too much hope in a vaccine should not divert attention from other containment measures.

The first problem with a vaccine is time. Since flu-causing viruses often mutate, scientists don’t know with certainty what strain might cause a pandemic. So, it is not often possible to make millions of doses of a vaccine in advance.

As with many other vaccines, since people have not been exposed to the virus before they first need a “primer” shot followed by another dose a month later. Because two doses are needed, a person wouldn’t be immune to the virus for about six weeks. This means the virus would have more time to infect people, even those who have been immunized.

So far, tests on an avian flu vaccine have shown promise, although scientists have found that a high dose is needed to combat the virus that causes the illness, which is spreading westward from Asia. To date, human avian flu infections have been limited and the virus has not been found to spread from human to human.

A vaccine may help, but it will not eliminate the spread of such an illness. Weaknesses exposed by hurricanes Katrina and Rita need to be addressed if the country is to be better prepared for a flu pandemic. Communication is key as hospitals, government officials and infectious diseases specialists would need to be in constant contact. Communication plans must take into account that key officials could be

incapacitated by the illness.

Individuals must also be prepared. One way to protect your family and neighbors may be to remain in isolation. Like waiting out a natural disaster, this requires a stockpile of food, water, medication and other necessary supplies.

As with other illnesses the old message of washing your hands, staying home when you’re sick and covering sneezes and coughs should be heeded to minimize the spread of germs.

Combating a pandemic will take everything from international government cooperation to individual preparation.