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Helping the public take responsibility for their safety is a good start
Larimer County health officials are taking on pandemic flu. And residents should be grateful.
Last week, county officials launched a broad awareness campaign about the potential for a flu pandemic and what residents can do to protect themselves. The tools offered for the public include a Web site that specifically addresses Larimer County issues and concerns, a new hotline for those with questions and a locally produced brochure. All are welcome for residents who understand that hoping for the best while preparing for the worst is a sensible approach when it comes to the threat of a flu pandemic.
Health experts have been outspoken in their belief that a flu outbreak could strike the globe, killing millions and leaving others vulnerable to a lack of food, energy, transportation and health care. Government cannot address individual needs in such situations, so residents are encouraged to seize some responsibility for their own welfare by planning ahead and working together.
Dr. Adrienne LeBailly, county health department director, provided an example of such problem solving that occurred during the holiday blizzards. Residents in Livermore, left short of supplies and with livestock and animals threatened by the cold weather, worked cooperatively to fulfill the needs of their neighbors. She is correct that neighborhoods and communities that work together now will be stronger in the face of pandemic flu. As seen locally and in cases such as Hurricane Katrina, government services can become overburdened or occasionally inefficient during crisis situations.
Nonprofits and businesses should heed the need to prepare, as well. By identifying partnerships and communication and service networks now, their ability to weather any storm or pandemic will be more effective.
Larimer County health officials are taking on pandemic flu. And residents should be grateful.
Last week, county officials launched a broad awareness campaign about the potential for a flu pandemic and what residents can do to protect themselves. The tools offered for the public include a Web site that specifically addresses Larimer County issues and concerns, a new hotline for those with questions and a locally produced brochure. All are welcome for residents who understand that hoping for the best while preparing for the worst is a sensible approach when it comes to the threat of a flu pandemic.
Health experts have been outspoken in their belief that a flu outbreak could strike the globe, killing millions and leaving others vulnerable to a lack of food, energy, transportation and health care. Government cannot address individual needs in such situations, so residents are encouraged to seize some responsibility for their own welfare by planning ahead and working together.
Dr. Adrienne LeBailly, county health department director, provided an example of such problem solving that occurred during the holiday blizzards. Residents in Livermore, left short of supplies and with livestock and animals threatened by the cold weather, worked cooperatively to fulfill the needs of their neighbors. She is correct that neighborhoods and communities that work together now will be stronger in the face of pandemic flu. As seen locally and in cases such as Hurricane Katrina, government services can become overburdened or occasionally inefficient during crisis situations.
Nonprofits and businesses should heed the need to prepare, as well. By identifying partnerships and communication and service networks now, their ability to weather any storm or pandemic will be more effective.
