City Personnel Encouraged to Prepare for Possible Pandemic

Photo by: Tim King

(SALEM) - The federal government is recommending that state and local governments, businesses and individuals prepare pandemic flu plans this year.

Although no one knows whether the Avian Flu will result in a pandemic, historically, pandemics occur on a cyclical basis. Three of the most notable ones in the United States occurred in 1918, 1957 and 1968.

The suggestions the city is setting forth for its employees are wise for all residents to pay attention to and follow.

Assistant City Manager Linda Norris says it's important to prepare detailed plans for several reasons. If there is a pandemic, she expects that residents will look to local government for assistance. "We also want to make sure that city employees and their families are prepared should a pandemic occur. The plans will also be valuable in responding to other types of emergencies."

She says she has met recently with city departments regarding preparations for a pandemic flu. All department plans will be completed and turned in by September 1st. They will review the plans and finalize them by the end of September, and begin training for city staff starting in October.

In the near future, printed information with check lists will be provided to city employees to help families better prepare for a pandemic. All of these recommendations and check lists will be on the city website under Pandemic Preparedness at cms.cityofsalem.net/departments/fire/emanagement/pandemic/ At the current time, the following steps are encouraged: Store one to two weeks of non-perishable food and supplies at home.

Have an adequate supply of prescription medications and health supplies on hand.

Stock additional supplies of hand sanitizers, soap and other disinfectants.

People who are able to do so are also encouraged to get a flu shot this fall. Although the vaccine won't protect against Avian flu, it will keep people healthier and will lessen the burden on the health care system.