Pandemic Response Phases have been developed to determine the seriousinous of pandemic diseases. Several sources of information is used to determine phase level decisions.
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Pandemic Response Phases
Phase 1: Activated upon the first suspected or confirmed case(s) of human-to-human transmission of pandemic disease.
This phase begins at the earliest moment a threat of pandemic in indicated. The Director of Northwestern State University Health Services Clinic and the Emergency Management Planning Coordinator will monitor the situation and notify key personnel as the situation dictates.
Phase 2: Activated upon the first suspected or confirmed case(s) of human-to-human transmission of pandemic disease in North America.
Communications to the campus community concerning the potential initiation of pandemic response will begin. Deans, directors, and department heads will place departments and essential personnel on standby for response, and encourage departments to consider business continuity plans for campus operations. Faculty, staff, and students will be informed of the situation and reminded of infection control procedures, and self-care guidelines. Key departments will address possible policy changes regarding working from home, traveling, using sick leave, and other human resources policies, as well as, faculty preparation for completion of course work utilizing alternative methods.
Phase 3: Activated when a suspected or confirmed case(s) of human-to-human transmission of pandemic disease is found in Louisiana.
The Incident Commander would call or request the Emergency Management Planning Coordinator to call a meeting of the Emergency Response Team members. Guidance will be obtained from the Regional Office of Public Health and the Center for Disease Control regarding pandemic response. Information regarding personal and community control measures to reduce the spread of illness will be circulated to faculty, staff and students. Business continuity plans for campus operations may go into effect during this phase.
Phase 4: Activated when a confirmed case(s) of human-to-human transmission of pandemic disease is found on the Northwestern State University campus.
The Incident Commander and the Cabinet would consider the need to close the campus or follow recommendations of the University of Louisiana System Office, the Governor or other state and federal officials. Housing, medical, meals and other assistance will be provided to support those who are ill and remain on campus or who may be unable to travel home because of distance, the prevalence of disease at home, increased risk associated with travel or other reasons.
