Pandemic Response Committee
Influenza pandemics have, in
the past, caught the world by surprise.
Today we have been given a clear warning,
enabling nations around the world to better
prepare for the next pandemic.
Although no one can predict
with any certainty when a pandemic will
occur, the H5N1 (Avian flu) virus demonstrates
considerable pandemic potential.
For this reason, the LaPorte
County Pandemic Response Committee was formed.
The Committee is a partnership of agencies
from both the public and private sector
whose mission is to develop response plans
to protect our community in the event of
a pandemic. Some of the activities of the
committee include:
- monitoring the evolving
situation
- enhancing communication
among agencies
- assessing the potential
medical needs of the community
- addressing any identified
gaps before a pandemic unfolds
- education of the public
and professional groups
Once efficient human to human
transmission begins, there will be little
time to prepare.
Now is the time to raise awareness
and knowledge of pandemic influenza. Past
emergencies have taught all of us that timely
and accurate information is essential to
gain the cooperation of the public. Communication
messages on how families can protect themselves
and some of the public health measures under
consideration to minimize the impact of
a pandemic will be crucial in obtaining
the public’s cooperation.
We appreciate your interest
in our endeavors, and thank you in advance
for assisting us in keeping the citizens
of LaPorte County informed.
LaPorte County Pandemic
Response Committee
LaPorte County Health Department
809 State Street, Suite 401 A LaPorte,
IN 46350
219/326-6808 x 2200
