The University of Houston-Victoria conducts emergency response operations using the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and the Incident Command System (ICS)models. NIMS and ICS provide a consistent nationwide mechanism designed to assist all government, private sector, and non-governmental organizations in working together during incidents when necessary. More information and education regarding NIMS and ICS can be found at the Federal Emergency Management Association’s (FEMA) Emergency Management Institute (EMI) website at http://training.fema.gov/EMI/.
The Victoria County Health Department serves in a health advisory role for the university regarding pandemic influenza. This role includes interpreting guidance and recommending actions to be taken or implemented at the University of Houston-Victoria. The UHV Emergency Management (UHVEM) may review and seek guidance from local, state or other health authorities.
B. Actions By Phases of Emergency Management
Prevention:
Update and maintain the UHV Pandemic Influenza Plan.
Collaborate with UHV individuals to ensure the pandemic influenza response plan is accurate and compliant.
Promote seasonal flu vaccinations.
Promote protective measures like hand-washing and respiratory etiquette during flu season.
Preparedness:
Educate students, faculty and staff regarding personal protection or mitigation strategies including seasonal influenza vaccination, respiratory etiquette, and responsible use of antiviral drugs.
Direct persons with flu-like symptoms to find local physicians for point of care testing for Influenza strains A and B.
Conduct training and awareness campaigns to educate students, staff and faculty on symptom recognition and infection control measures.
Develop and disseminate pandemic influenza related public information campaigns for travelers who may have visited potential pandemic influenza affected areas.
Ensure a communication system is established and maintained throughout a pandemic influenza response.
Conduct table top exercises to implement pandemic influenza plans and test response procedures.
The Emerging Health Issues Advisory (EHIA) Group will meet to coordinate planning activities for pandemic influenza.
Response
Activate the UHV Emergency Operations (UHEO), if necessary.
Continue enhanced communication and surveillance activities.
As available, distribute antiviral medications, vaccines and medical supplies to address UHV needs.
Activate law enforcement entities to assist in pandemic influenza control measures and maintenance of social order.
Continue to educate citizens about personal protective strategies and population level interventions that may be initiated during a pandemic within their community.
Develop and disseminate public service announcements, utilizing University Marketing and Media Relations, for release to the media concerning pandemic influenza outbreak.
The Emerging Health Issues Advisory (EHIA) Group, when required, will meet more often to coordinate response activities and determine recommendations related to the pandemic influenza emergency.
Recovery
Obtain all critical documents, information, and paperwork from all officials regarding emergency and disaster declarations.
Prepare and submit documentation for any requests for emergency and disaster assistance to local jurisdiction, State, FEMA or other appropriate entity.
Develop an After Action Report (AAR) to evaluate responses and outcomes to initial waves of the pandemic to determine best practices.
Prepare a follow-up EHIA Group meeting to determine strengths and areas of improvement related to the planning, response and recovery.
