TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager, or designee, to execute all necessary agreements, and any subsequent amendments, between the State of California Department of Public Health and the City of Long Beach in the amount of $75,799 for the period of July 1, 2013 through June 30, 2014, to continue the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Program. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
In the aftermath of 9/11, Hurricane Katrina, H1N1, and other threats, public health preparedness has become central to the public health mission at the federal, state, and local levels. In the City of Long Beach, the Department of Health and Human Services’ (Health Department) Public Health Emergency Management (PHEM) Program leads the Department’s response to local threats and emergencies such as the recent Hepatitis A outbreak, and ongoing surveillance of diseases with potential global impact such as SARS, MERS-CoV and avian flu. During the H1N1 epidemic in 2009, the Health Department led the City’s mass prophylaxis efforts that provided vaccinations to nearly 17,000 individuals. In collaboration with the Police and Fire Departments, the Health Department ensures the city’s safety through organized planning and execution of public health emergency response and tactics.
The Pandemic Influenza Preparedness program supports local health jurisdiction preparedness for an influenza pandemic by increasing local capacity through exercises, drills and training, recruitment of disaster volunteers, technology and software enhancements for rapid disease reporting, and identification of alternate care sites.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Linda Vu on September 13, 2013 and Budget Management Officer Victoria Bell on September 17, 2013.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action on this matter is requested on October 8, 2013 in order to continue services and funding without interruption.
FISCAL IMPACT
The total amount of the agreement is $75,799. Sufficient funds are currently b...
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