In today’s globalized society, we live with a threat of pandemic flu and its effects upon our world.  A pandemic is a global disease outbreak, and a flu pandemic develops when a new influenza strain emerges for which people have little or no immunity and for which there is no vaccine developed.

A recent threat to global health is the H5N1 virus, or avian flu. This particular virus is so troubling because it is being spread by migratory birds, and it can be transmitted from birds to mammals and in some limited circumstances to humans. Like other influenza viruses, it continues to evolve, creating challenges for the healthcare community. It also is especially deadly for humans, as it has a 50 percent fatality rate for those who contract it.

Below are recent news and resources concerning pandemic planning. Please contact Women In Government with further questions or concerns regarding this issue.

Pandemic Planning In the News

• State Preparations for Flu Pandemic Vary Widely - 12/18/06

• U.S. Health System Unprepared, Report Says - 12/13/06

• Is Pandemic Planning Cause for Concern? - 11/1/06

Women In Government Resources

• Pandemic Flu Fact Sheet

• Pandemicflu.gov Information Sheet

• Sample Appropriations Language for Pandemic Flu Preparedness

• Sample Pandemic Preparedness Legislation - California

• Sample Pandemic Preparedness Legislation - Colorado

Publications

• Preparing for a Pandemic Influenza - National Governors Association

• Pandemic Influenza Principles for U.S. Action - Infectious Diseases Society of Ameria

• Pandemic Planning Update III - Department of Health and Human Services

• World Health Organization Pandemic Guidelines

• Trust for America's Health Preparedness Report

Additional Resources

• Pandemicflu.gov Homepage
• Emergency Preparedness
• Homeland Security