RSSPlanning for Pandemic Influenza
Influenza (the flu) is an infectious disease caused by several types, or strains, of viruses. When a new virus strain emerges for which people lack immunity, it can cause serious illness, spread quickly, and become a global flu outbreak, or pandemic.
Public health officials are warning of the possibility of new pandemics, and it is critical that we as churches, dioceses and caregivers are prepared, in order to:
• maintain business continuity;
• provide for a collective worship life in the case of quarantine and disruption;
• bring God’s compassion and care to those in our communities who are afflicted.
We hope that by preparing for the possibility of an influenza pandemic, all the faithful of our family—our collective, parishes, lay and ordained ministers, schools and administrative quarters—will be better able to serve one another and anyone in need.
We have compiled a list of pandemic flu resources for our dioceses, congregations, families and communities. As you review the materials and work to create local and diocesan action plans, please feel free to contact us with any questions.
No one can predict when pandemic influenza might emerge, but as recent history suggests, it is likely to happen again. This information is intended to assist us all in preparing for that event.
For more information, see the link menu on the left of the page. You may also contact our office at 1.800.334.7626, ext. 5129.
