Current Status
Message from the Interim President
Dear Members of the USM Community:
The University has formed a Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Task Force to develop our response to a possible influenza pandemic. As you may know, the H5N1 Avian flu virus has killed millions of birds, and is currently being tracked closely by the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control for a mutation that would lead to sustained human-to-human transmission.
It is widely accepted that the occurrence of an influenza pandemic would cause widespread illness, death and disruption of normal business and social activity. The federal government suggests that a worst-case scenario could lead to the deaths of 2 million Americans and workplace absenteeism of up to 40 percent. Businesses, institutions and individuals are being urged to develop plans to deal with the effects of a pandemic.
Given that possible scenario, it is our responsibility to be prepared. The Task Force is working with the provost and registrar, employee health and safety, human resources, facilities, residential life, dining services, health and counseling services, police, distance education, purchasing, student government and others in order to have a plan in place that will provide for the safety of our students and staff. This group is also charged with developing plans to ensure the continuation of key functions should USM need to suspend business as usual. Task Force leaders also are working with state, county and local officials.
We have established this special web site (http://usm.maine.edu/pandemicflu/) for students, staff and families that contains information and links on avian influenza and pandemic influenza preparedness. This web site will be an ongoing source of information for the USM community.
You might also want to view the following web sites:
I want to thank the university community for coming together to address what could be the most consequential public health issue of our time. It is an incredibly complex undertaking. Please be assured that the first and foremost goal of the Task Force will continue to be the health and safety of USM's students, faculty and staff. This planning can also help us be better prepared for other possible emergencies and disasters.
Any questions regarding USM's plan should be directed to Vice President for Student and University Life Craig Hutchinson (780-4035, craigh@usm.maine.edu) or Assistant to the Vice President for Student and University Life Jane Coolidge (780-4083, coolidge@usm.maine.edu).
Sincerely,
Joseph Wood
Interim President
