Bacon's Rebellion

When Avian Flu Breaks Out, Who Ya Gonna Call?

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by

James A. Bacon
in

The Trust for America’s Health has given Virginia its highest score among all states, tied with Delaware and South Carolina, in an evaluation of preparedness for major health emergencies. The report, “Ready or Not? Protecting the Public’s Health from Disease, Disasters, and Bioterrorism,” awarded federal response efforts with a D+.

Said Gov. Mark R. Warner in a press release: “Virginia has again been recognized as a national leader for its commitment to preparing and protecting our citizens from public health emergencies.” Virginia was one of only two states that received points for “plans, incentives, or provisions to ensure continuity of care in the event of a major outbreak.”

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One response to “When Avian Flu Breaks Out, Who Ya Gonna Call?”

  1. Will Vehrs Avatar
    Will Vehrs

    Interesting title, Jim. But who will you call when the flu breaks out? Who will answer the phone?

    Right now, at the top of the Virginia Dept of Health website are three links to “Pandemic Influenza” information, including the state’s plan in a 36 page plus pdf file. It’s good preparatory information.

    I didn’t read the plan, but I would hope that a part of it is to put shorter, more practical information up in the event of a pandemic–make the VDH website the CNN for Virginians. Healthcare provider phone lines will be jammed and using the internet to dispense information will be extremely important.

    The word ought to start going out to the public now about how information will be disseminated. Not that many people will bother to check in now, but the more people that know where the information will be, the better “word” will be spread if a pandemic hits and panic starts.

    http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/

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