State Governments Prepare for H1N1 Flu Season

NCSL launches online resource with latest updates on emergency plans

WASHINGTON – Most state health officials are planning for when—not if—a swine flu outbreak occurs.

As the federal government develops a national strategy to address the H1N1 virus for the fall and winter flu seasons, the National Conference of State Legislatures has developed a comprehensive webpage with resources for states. Since states are first responders to public health emergencies, state legislators and legislative staff now have a wealth of valuable information in one location.

“These online resources will help state legislators and legislative staff stay abreast of the federal and state responses to this public health alert,” said William T. Pound, executive director of the National Conference of State Legislatures. “Because there are many unknowns, scientists are working diligently to understand this emerging virus and its potential effect on the public’s health. As more detailed information becomes available, NCSL will provide relevant updates.”

Based on the latest report from the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology, between 30 percent and 50 percent of the U.S. population could contract the H1N1 this fall and winter with  more than half needing medical attention. State officials now have one place to find information and analysis from the White House, the Centers on Disease Control and Prevention and the Department of Health and Human Services regarding the incidence of H1N1 around the nation. NCSL staff are in contact with officials at the CDC and HHS to receive regular updates on the spread and evolution of the flu strain.

Additionally, the website lists state actions and emergency preparedness plans already in place to respond to a widespread outbreak. Here is a list of some of the information found on the webpage:

• What is H1N1 (Swine) Influenza?
• Variant H1N1 Strains 
• H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu): State Health Department Websites 
• Antivirals
• Vaccine Development and Distribution 
• Resources for States 

For more information or to speak with NCSL health policy analysts, contact the press room.

NCSL is a bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staffs of the states, commonwealths and territories. It provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues and is an effective and respected advocate for the interests of the states in the American federal system.