OMH Influenza Preparedness And Response (H1N1 Flu)
2009 – 2010

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The flu (influenza) is an infection of the nose, throat, and lungs caused by influenza viruses. There are many different flu viruses, one of which is seasonal influenza. Novel H1N1 flu is a new and very different influenza virus that is spreading worldwide among people.

Flu is unpredictable, and it is expected that the virus will cause mild to moderate illness in the vast majority of cases. However, some cases will be severe enough to require hospital stays. Deaths are possible, particularly in people who have chronic medical conditions.

The New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) has engaged in planning to prepare for and respond to H1N1 and seasonal flu outbreaks in mental health settings. The plan addresses services in State -operated facilities, Community OMH licensed programs, and Emergency Planning for Continuity of Operations.

OMH is working closely with New York State Department of Health (NYS DOH) and NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (NYC DOHMH) in an effort to offer consumers, providers and staff with the most updated guidelines.

Goal: Optimal Prevention and Effective Treatment of Seasonal and H1N1 Influenza

Scope: Entities operated and licensed by the New York State Office of Mental Health:

• OMH Operated Hospitals
  • Adult
  • Child/Adolescent
  • Forensic
• Licensed Article 31 Hospitals and Clinics
• OMH Licensed Congregate Care Facilities (RTF, RCCA, SOCR)

Populations and Priorities:

• Inpatients
• Outpatients
• OMH staff

This Website will provide you with information and updates on OMH's preparedness and response to H1N1, as well as links to the best resources of information on H1N1.

Internet Resources

• Action Steps for Employers
• Educate Your Employees
• Flu Prevention Made Simple

Additional Resources

• H1N1 Influenza H1N1 Public Information Resources
  Comprehensive information for the public and providers about H1N1 prevalence, vaccination, mitigation and treatment, including sector-specific guidance documents.
• Considering the Use of N-95 Respirator Masks
  For those considering the use of N-95 respirator masks you can find training on fit-testing of the masks at this site http://h1n1.neric.org/.

National, State, and City Resources

• U.S. Government Swine, Avian and Pandemic Flu Information
  One-stop access from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
• CDC H1N1 Flu
  Comprehensive information for the public and clinicians.
• Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
  Use of Influenza Medicines and Diagnostic Testing Information.
• New York State Department of Health H1N1 Guidance
• New York State Office of Homeland Security
• New York State Department of Insurance
  Information on Vaccine Insurance
• New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene
• New York State Department of Health October 2009 Medicaid Update Special Edition

General Information

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• New York State H1N1 Flu Updates
• New York State Health H1N1 Flu Resources
• H1N1 Flu Hotline
  1-800-808-1987 (New York City residents call 311)

Information for Providers
An array of information is provided in the links below.

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Guidance for Professionals
• New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Guide for Congregate Care (PDF)
• Office of Children & Family Services Information for Child Care Providers
• OMH Guidance to Licensed Programs Regarding Seasonal and H1N1 Influenza Vaccination (PDF)