Pandemic Influenza (May 12, 2006)
In response to the recent media coverage regarding pandemic influenza (also
referred to as avian influenza or bird flu), you should be aware that Virginia
law (
Va. Code 22.1-279.8) requires each school's crisis and emergency management
plan to address medical emergencies. A copy of the VSBA sample policy (EB
School Crisis and Emergency Management Plan) is attached. Numerous state and
federal agencies are working to develop and distribute information relating to
this topic. A list of links to information is contained at the end of this
message. You may want to consult those sources, as well as your local health
department, as you review the plans in your division plans to be sure that they
address the concerns that are being raised by this issue.
The VSBA will provide additional information as it becomes available.
Resources
From Virginia:
http://www.pen.k12.va.us/VDOE/suptsmemos/2006/inf094.html
http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/pandemicflu/
From the federal government:
http://www.ed.gov/admins/lead/safety/crisisplanning.html
http://www.pandemicflu.gov/plan/schoolchecklist.html
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/avian/
http://www.hhs.gov/nvpo/pandemics/dhhs.html
http://www.whitehouse.gov/homeland/pandemic-influenza.html