Similar to other types of emergencies, disaster planning must also take into consideration the likelihood of a flu outbreak, which may, or may not be mitigated through the use of flu shots, which have been known to be unreliable in the past. The goals and objectives of Baltimore’s Office of Sustainability involve protecting the safety, health, and welfare of the residents and visitors of the City of Baltimore (Baltimore Office of Sustainability , 2017). This paper will analyze the case study considering the options and organizations required to deal with a flu outbreak in the community, and a high prevalence within a health organization or hospital.
In the first scenario, it is important for the health department of the City of Baltimore to issue reminders to local businesses and other infrastructures that deal with the public including schools, post offices, and other public entities. Other resources available to the community include the use of social media platforms including Facebook and Twitter, to share information about locations for free flu shots, warning signs, which warrant immediate medical attention, and access to loans available through the United States Small Business Administration (Baltimore County Government, 2017). The recommendations are to provide small business owners with low-interest loans to help them invest in some of the tools to help minimize the spread of germs including disinfection options, learn about investment options for better business practices. There is a problem with people needing to take time off when they are ill, to help minimize the spread of a disease and limit the possibility of an outbreak (Maryland.Gov, 2003).
In the second scenario, the population has reached 25% sick from the flu, with 40% of the health organization’s nurses sick also. The hospital would need to have signs with the emergency warnings for the disease and when the patients should be concerned. It is also important to focus on how the health department can assist with the resolution of the problem. Additionally, It is important for the health organization to look back at a previously created disaster plan to determine the appropriate steps to be taken (Baltimore Office of Sustainability , 2017). This health organization needs to require all nurses an doctors to wear masks while interacting with patients to limit the likelihood they will become sick.
In conclusion, the health organization may look to a loan to support them hiring more employee to help minimize the gaps in their workforce. The use of the flu shot in the community can make this scenario better, or worse, because if more residents have the shot, they are less likely to get sick. The community has the ability to support, or reject the use of the flu shot. Access to free shots will be the best option.
References
Baltimore County Government. (2017). Baltimore County Government. Retrieved from Emergency Plans: http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Agencies/emergency_prep/emergencyplan.html
Baltimore Office of Sustainability . (2017). Baltimore Office of Sustainability . Retrieved from Disaster Preparedness Plan: http://www.baltimoresustainability.org/plans/disaster-preparedness-plan/
Maryland.Gov. (2003, April 14). Maryland.Gov. Retrieved from Influenza (Flu): http://phpa.dhmh.maryland.gov/influenza/pages/home.aspx
