Both science and history support the conclusion that another pandemic is imminent. The only question is how severe it will be. Scientists are worried that the H5N1 virus carried by birds throughout the world is identical in its genetic structure to the virus of 1918 that claimed at least 40 million lives worldwide. The virus has been transmitted from birds to mammals and has infected human beings. As of yet, human-to-human transmission is not easily accomplished by some 200 people have contracted it half of whom have died. The Federal government announced in March that the avian flu will arrive in the U.S. in 2006. Scientists worry about the virus? ability to mutate, which would make human-to-human transmission easy. In this event, some 90 million people, or 40 percent of the workforce will be affected and the economy might grind to a halt which would be like having Katrina hit all 50 states at once said one expert.

PETER MARGHELLA: Phase 3/0 Lessons Learned from pandemic influenza planning
Objectives:

Discuss learned from planning for a pandemic

Identify various government agencies involved in planning.

Explain importance of a "common framework" used by all agencies in planning initiatives.

MAURICE A. RAMIREZ: Are We Ready? Are you kidding?!
Objectives:

Explain use of anthrax incidents as model for avian flue preparedness

Describe type of education model for disaster planning preparedness.

Describe role of home health in disaster planning/preparedness.

JOE D. WHITLEY: Role of Government in pandemic preparedness
Objectives:

Relate role of government in pandemic planning

Differentiate public health priorities pre and post 9/11

GEORGE A. KOENIG: What is the Federal Government doing to prepare for a pandemic?
Objectives:

List DHHS priorities.

Relate major role of key government agencies in preparation for a pandemic

RICHARD F. REST: Microbiological research in pandemic preparedness
Objectives:

Describe the role of microbiological research in pandemic preparedness.