Here in Texas, we’re closely watching swine flu developments, as we all should be.

Recent media coverage, including this Washington Post article, has taken past media coverage to task for being too overblown and panic-mongering before the nature of the flu’s transmission is clear.

I agree that the 24-hour news cycle is an unhealthy model begging for disruption; however, I think that this reaction is a natural and necessary part of our global, national, organizational, and personal flu response.

We all need practice in responding to new flu outbreaks, and that holds true for readers responsible for corporate business continuity management (BCM) capabilities. Here are three “beyond the media hype” points on the current flu outbreak from a BCM perspective …

First, let’s be thankful that this outbreak isn’t far worse; other strains of flu have been shown to be transmitted much more effectively … and leveled far greater health and economic problems much more quickly (think SARS).

Second, a major part of effective BCM capabilities involves addressing perception. New flu outbreaks (a strong possibility now and in coming years, according to the world’s leading health experts) and other natural and manmade disasters are so problematic because they incite fear. The public and the media’s response to these events represent challenges that BCM processes need to address. (And judging from the more comprehensive nature of today’s H1N1 coverage in most papers as well as a reduction in careless, panic-provoking headlines, the written-word media seems to be favoring a more thoughtful approach.)

Third, if your BCM and pandemic preparedness capabilities are wanting, start by reading this Business Finance article, going to the CDC’s H1N1 site (which provides links to a wealth of BCM information at the CDC and beyond), and looking at Karen Kroll’s treasury-related insights on the topic. ###