Collaborative risk-based preparedness for pandemic influenza in Southeastern Virginia

There is consensus among preparedness experts, including epidemiologists, that another influenza pandemic is imminent (R.I. Webby and R.G. Webster, 2003). An influenza pandemic is a worldwide spread of a new, highly contagious strain of flu where little or no immunity exists and a vaccine is unavailable. The development of a preparedness plan before the next pandemic outbreak is vital because past pandemics have led to millions of American casualties and substantial economic losses. This project develops a set of risk mitigation strategies in the form of mask distribution for reducing the impact of an influenza outbreak in the Hampton Roads Planning District (HRPD). The project found a significant reduction in illnesses, hospitalizations, deaths, worker absenteeism, economic losses and medical surge for all strategies. However, an analysis of regional supply concludes that only partial mask strategies are feasible.