Pandemic Influenza Response Plan initiated

 

The 20^th Century saw three influenza pandemics (epidemics that occurred over a wide geographic area and affected a large proportion of the population). The most deadly, the “Spanish Flu” of 1918, killed an estimated 20 million people worldwide.  Public health officials have warned that a global influenza pandemic is overdue.

 

The Renfrew County and District Health Unit established the Pandemic Influenza Steering Committee in June 2004.  The purpose of this committee is to develop a local Pandemic Influenza Response Plan in advance of a pandemic, to ensure a coordinated response when/if pandemic influenza strikes.  The members of the committee currently include representatives from acute care, long-term care, community health care, and emergency services.

 

The Pandemic Influenza Response Plan will provide guidelines for the management of an influenza pandemic in Renfrew County and District.  It is intended to complement the existing Renfrew County and District Health Unit Emergency Response Plan as well as complement and integrate with the existing municipal emergency response plans.

 

The Renfrew County and District Pandemic Influenza Response Plan will focus on preparedness, response and recovery. Goals of the Plan are:

1)     To minimize serious illness and overall deaths through appropriate management of health care services.

2)     To minimize societal disruption.