"With this new Web site, people in Pennsylvania will have access to a state-of-the-art, informative tool to get quick, accurate answers about flu pandemics," said Governor Edward G. Rendell.
Governor Rendell's deputy chief of staff Art Stephens, state Health Secretary Dr. Calvin B. Johnson and state Agriculture Secretary Dennis Wolff announced the official launch of www.pandemicflu.state.pa.us.
"Pennsylvania hasn't faced an influenza pandemic in nearly 40 years and at this point, there is no immediate threat of one," said Stephens. "But the outbreak of a new strain of avian flu -- called the H5N1 virus -- in Asia, has reminded the world of the need to be prepared in case a pandemic strikes at home. That's what we're doing in Pennsylvania -- both for animals and humans.
"The success of our planning relies on making sure that the proper information is getting out to individuals and organizations about steps they can take to educate and prepare themselves for the possibility of a pandemic. The state's new pandemic preparedness Web site builds on the strong foundation of resources already in place to ensure that our ability to respond to this potential public health threat is efficient and effective."
The Web site features specific resources and directions for various groups -- including local governments, individuals, businesses, schools, healthcare providers, communities and agriculture; frequently asked questions; and the latest information on what Pennsylvania is doing to prepare.
Pennsylvania-specific planning documents, articles and fact sheets are available for download and up-to-date news and information from other health care and government resources as well.
