Influenza
In response to the H1N1 epidemic (formerly known as "swine flu"), hospitals across Ohio are being asked to partner with their local health departments and report all suspected cases.
President Obama Signs Emergency Declaration for H1N1 Flu (Flu.gov)
Requesting an 1135 Waiver (1135 Waiver Overview)
ODH N95 mask guidance
Hospital Preparedness
- ODH encourages hospital infection control practitioners to go to the secured, Web-based Ohio Public Health Communication System where documents specific to Ohio are posted.
- Hospitals should report any medical supply/equipment needs directly to their Emergency Management Agency (EMA).
- Hospitals are encouraged to review their pandemic flu or biological response plan.
CDC resources:
ODH Issues Guidance on Reducing Use of N95 Respirators for H1N1
November 5, 2009:
Responding to a shortage of N95 respirators, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) this week provided new guidance to prevent and control the transmission of H1N1 and seasonal influenza in health care and non-health care environments. The new guidelines relax the need to use N95 respirators for all influenza patients and recommend actions health care facilities can take to reduce N95 respirators used within the facility. This guidance was jointly developed by ODH, OHA, the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, the Ohio Department of Public Safety and the Ohio Department of Administrative Services.
View ODH N95 guidance
OHA’s updated its Supply Shortage Evaluation Process document, which includes tools and information to help hospitals make decisions on the evaluation and monitoring of supplies.
View OHA Supply Shortage Evaluation Process
Other Announcements