Likely impact of school and childcare closures on public health workforce during an influenza pandemic: a survey.
(2008)
Journal - Communicable diseases intelligence (Australia )
Abstract :
During an influenza pandemic, public health staff may not report to work due to illness, transport disruptions or care responsibilities, including care of children if school closures occur. A survey was conducted in a population health unit to estimate the impact of closure of schools and day care facilities on staff ability to work at their usual workplace or at home, and determine their access to the Internet for communication. Staff were also asked about concerns associated with working from home. Eighty-seven staff completed a paper based survey. Thirty-eight per cent (33/87) of staff may be absent from work due to the impact of childcare and school closure, however 24 (73%) of these staff would be able to work from home with most having access to dial-up (87%) and broadband Internet access (71%). Staff reported concerns about potential exposure to pandemic influenza, the need for personal protection and clearly defined roles and training, availability of adequate equipment and technology to work from home, and sick leave provisions during a pandemic. While school and childcare closures will have a significant impact on public health agency staff, they have the capacity and willingness to work from home. Their practical concerns should be addressed to optimise their participation.
| ISSN : | 0725-3141 |
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| Mesh Heading : | Australia Child Child Day Care Centers Child, Preschool Communicable Disease Control Data Collection Disaster Planning Humans Influenza, Human Internet Schools epidemiology |
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| Mesh Heading Relevant : | Disease Outbreaks organization & administration methods prevention & control organization & administration |
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Business continuity management and pandemic influenza.
(2007)
Journal - New South Wales public health bulletin (Australia )
Abstract :
Pandemic influenza planning presents challenges for both government and businesses. Effective cooperation and communication before and during a pandemic will help mitigate the major threats to societal function. The major challenges for government include communicating a realistic estimate of pandemic risk, managing community anxiety, communicating the need for rationing of vaccines and antiviral medications, setting standards for preparedness, and gaining the trust of essential service workers. For businesses the challenges are tailoring generic planning guides to local use, and making links with local and regional partners in pandemic planning.
| ISSN : | 1034-7674 |
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| Mesh Heading : | Absenteeism Antiviral Agents Australia Commerce Disease Outbreaks Forecasting Health Priorities Humans Immunization Programs Influenza Vaccines Influenza, Human New South Wales Planning Techniques supply & distribution epidemiology economics supply & distribution drug therapy economics prevention & control epidemiology |
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| Mesh Heading Relevant : | Interinstitutional Relations Public Health Administration organization & administration prevention & control epidemiology |
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