Novel Influenza Planning Workgroup

Novel influenza guidance documents

I just reviewed some of the guidance documents posted here. There is one thing that has been on my mind that I have been trying to solve here in NJ. I'd love to create 1 document that covers all novel influenza guidance (swine, avian, unknown). We heard feedback from some providers saying how would they know what causes the flu and therefor be able to go somewhere the pull the right guidance to use on the spot. I think this is a very valid point and I have been trying to incorporate as much of the general recommendation together and then creating sections when these general areas differ. Just wondering if others had this thought and think it's worth pursuing. I can share my very rough draft of where I have begun and then get stuck if others would like to see it.

Comments & Events

Lisa McHugh, Assistant Bureau Director, Bureau of Epidemiology
This is sort of where I was going (have a similar table in my doc) but trying to also include H3N2v (and other swine related viruses).

Lisa McHugh, MPH
Program Coordinator, Infectious Disease Epidemiology
Influenza Surveillance Coordinator
Communicable Disease Service
New Jersey Department of Health
Phone : 609-826-5964
Fax : 609-826-5972
***New email: lisa.mchugh@doh.nj.gov****


Vivian Hawkins
Yes I would agree that having a one stop document makes sense.

Also, I am wondering about guidance for people exposed to or infected with variant flu (for example, the swine variant viruses that the Midwest has seen lately). Is there special management?

At any rate, yes, I like the idea of a single document for healthcare providers.
Karen Martin
I have a talking points document uploaded that talks about swine variant cases. Because we find out about these after their infectious period is over, we haven't had the need for much healthcare provider information. That doesn't mean we would never need it, however.