The Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH) and the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA) have joined forces to host the Pandemic Influenza & Special Needs Leadership Training Program on September 15th, 16th and 17th at the Radisson Airport Hotel in Warwick.
National and state leaders, including the Federal Emergency Management agency (FEMA), will present strategies to prepare for, respond to and recover from an influenza pandemic. This training can be applied to the ongoing H1N1 response efforts. Individuals with chronic medical conditions and special healthcare needs are at higher risk for complications from influenza. Therefore, a special emphasis of the training program will be placed on planning for special needs populations, including children and adults with underlying medical conditions.
“People who get H1N1 will get sick. Most will have mild illness; however, anyone with underlying medical conditions such as heart or lung disease, diabetes, immunosuppression or pregnancy can have more severe symptoms.” said Director of Health David R. Gifford, MD, MPH. “This underscores the importance of planning for the needs of special populations, many of whom are a high risk for complications from influenza. We are please to be able to work with our colleagues at RIEMA to offer this training.”
More than 600 Rhode Islanders, including representing state agencies, community organizations, healthcare providers, emergency management officials, first responders, and individuals, will participate in the training. The training will focus on the importance of personal preparedness. Attendees will learn about the essential items that should be included in a personal readiness kit. Community organizations will also have the opportunity to participate in a strategy session focused on developing Continuity of Operations (COOP) plans.
For more information, visit http://www.health.ri.gov or call 222-5960/RI Relay 711.