Links to Resources | CDC.gov | HHS.gov | Philadelphia Department of Public Health | SPH in the News | Diversity Preparedness Resources | University Info Page About Swine Flu
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Much more is understood today about Influenza A (H1N1) than during the period of its initial outbreak. The situation is an example of the critical need for public health professionals to prepare the nation to cope with disease outbreaks, and the School of Public Health is working to keep people informed and prepared. In fact, the School of Public Health is leading a national diversity preparedness center that is providing resources on pandemic flu preparations for culturally diverse communities. |
The H1N1 virus continues to disproportionately affect individuals age 24 and younger. Young people, pregnant women, and other priority groups are encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as the vaccine is available in their community. Flu.gov has created an interactive Flu Shot Locator with the latest information on where the vaccine is available. To address public concerns regarding the safety of the H1N1 vaccine, the CDC has developed vaccination fact sheets in a wide variety of languages.
A story recently aired on National Public Radio described the disproportionately high incidence rate of H1N1 among minorities in the Boston area as the result of social factors affecting these communities.
Flu.gov has been established as the central source for H1N1 information and provides resources on the novel virus in Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, and Spanish.
To read more about the efforts of Drexel University to prepare for the current flu season, please visit the university's H1N1 Resource Center.
In addition, Dean Marla J. Gold, MD, has been interviewed on local and national radio and television stations about preparedness planning and infectious disease control. Click here for mp3 download of Dean Gold's most recent interview (November 4) on Radio Times with host Marty Moss-Coane, concerning the City of Philadelphia's recent declaration of a flu emergency.
As the only accredited School of Public Health in the Philadelphia region, it is important that we provide accurate and updated information on the H1N1 disease and other emergency situations. The City of Philadelphia has one of the largest and most active health departments in the United States, and we work closely with them at every step. Together, we will continue to provide emergency preparedness planning and resources across the community.