emergency.uwgb.edu

Federal agency tests communication as part of pandemic preparedness
Recent guidance issued by the United States Department of Health and Human Services encourages states to provide employees with information about pandemic flu and steps the state is taking in anticipation of a potential pandemic. In accordance with this guidance, the state of Wisconsin has developed Continuity of Operations (COOP) pandemic plans to protect the health of state employees and maintain operations during a pandemic. One important component of these plans is identifying ways of communicating with employees in the event of an outbreak. The state has requested a test of communication methods, part of which includes the information contained on this Web site.

Pandemic info will come via campus e-mail
If health officials determine that a pandemic could break out in the near future in the United States, UW-Green Bay health and safety officials will receive an e-mail message stating that the University has entered an “alert period,” which allows for the University to finalize, update and test its COOP pandemic plans. If a pandemic actually begins, officials will receive a similar e-mail message stating that the University has entered an “action period.” During this time, the University will activate its COOP pandemic plans and inform employees of protective steps they should take. UW-Green Bay will let the campus community know of any pandemic “alert periods” or “action periods” via campus e-mail from the LOG e-mail account.

Information also online
The UW-Green Bay Marketing and Communication Department will also post information on the UW-Green Bay homepage or its news and events page. The information about the pandemic, if serious enough, will also be posted to UW-Green Bay’s new emergency alert website (http://emergency.uwgb.edu) where continuous updates will be added.

Prevention steps also communicated
Pandemic prevention tips and steps will also be included in University communications, including LOG e-mails and emergency alert website updates. Suggestions may include avoiding close physical contact with others and infection control measures such as staying home when ill, covering a cough and washing hands frequently. During the course of a pandemic, employees may receive additional e-mail messages providing updates and further guidance.

More info online
More information about pandemic influenza and steps you and your family can take to be prepared can be found at http://pandemic.wisconsin.gov.