MEMORANDUM

Date:   January 17, 2007

To:   All Faculty and Staff, Academic Affairs

From:   Susan Coultrap-McQuin, Provost

Re:   Institutional Planning for Possible Avian Flu Pandemic

You may be aware from media reports that extensive planning is underway around the world in preparation for a possible avian influenza (bird flu) pandemic.  U.S. Federal and state information websites have been established to keep the public informed (see: http://www.pandemicflu.gov/).  In addition, SUNY has implemented a bird flu planning process in collaboration with New York State government.

A campus planning group that includes representation from Academic Affairs is addressing this issue locally.  A series of crisis management protocols to be implemented in the unlikely event that a local outbreak would result in a temporary closure of the campus are under consideration. The committee will make its recommendations to President's Council shortly, and instructions for implementing a crisis management plan will be distributed across campus as warranted.  A website with details of our campus planning can be found at:

http://www.oswego.edu/student/health/walker_health_center/flu.html

It is advisable that all students, staff and faculty develop plans for meeting personal needs in the event of a temporary campus closure.  This plan should include a pre-determined destination and arrangements for reliable transportation.  Such an event would affect every aspect of day-to-day operations of the college, and it is reasonable to assume that public services including bus and air transportation would be reduced due to personnel shortages.

For responses to questions regarding the bird flu planning process as it relates directly to Academic Affairs, contact Michael Ameigh at ameigh@oswego.edu.

c.               James Scharfenberger, Associate VP for Student Affairs/Dean of Students
                 Michael Ameigh, Assistant Provost, Academic Affairs