Avian Flu Pandemic May Have Big Effect On U.S. Businesses

The outbreak of an avian flu pandemic that experts say could come soon might cripple many businesses, bring travel and tourism to a standstill and cost the U.S. economy more than $100 billion in lost productivity.

Experts predict an influenza pandemic could kill 100,000 to a staggering 1.9 million Americans and could force 2 million more into hospitals. Schools would close. Shopping malls would become empty echo chambers, as would movie theaters, stadiums and restaurants. Leisure and business travel would plunge. Absenteeism could reach 25%.
Global death estimates vary widely, ranging from 30 million to 380 million.