Project Highlight: Public Communication
Pandemic Influenza Communication Plan
Client: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs (HHS ASPA)
In conjunction with staff from the National Vaccine Program Office (NVPO) and the Office for Public Health Emergency Preparedness (OPHEP), HHS ASPA and ORISE are taking the lead in developing an integrated interagency approach to crisis communication in the event of an influenza pandemic.
ASPA asked ORISE to assist in identifying information, developing a structure, and facilitating the development of an interagency pandemic flu operational crisis communication plan.
ORISE staff assessed the most current HHS’ agency Emergency Plan(s) policies and procedures that impacted the development of the plan and/or could serve as a model. Additionally, ORISE staff:
- Obtained appropriate documentation
- Agreed on milestones and what agencies are responsible for specific communication tasks
- Determined how information would be coordinated among HHS internal agencies/OPDIVs and other federal department public affairs organizations and state and local health departments
An ambitious, initial deadline of January 2006 was moved up to Dec. 1, 2005, due to intense public and political pressure. ORISE met this deadline, essentially producing a draft plan in one month.
