Is the veterans benefit administration academy prepared for the next pandemic
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Authors
Leety, Scott
Issue Date
2012
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
Homeland security , Safety engineering
Alternative Title
Abstract
In July, 2009, employees and students at the Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Administration Academy experienced an outbreak of pandemic influenza impacting 33 of 35 students and instructors in one Academy classroom. Mitigation and response actions consistent with the March 2006, VA Pandemic Influenza Plan were undertaken on behalf of the VBA Academy personnel. However, some actions were overlooked or not implemented at that time. This study utilizes gap analysis of the actions taken by the VBA Academy officials during the 2009 pandemic influenza event to determine whether the VBA Academy is sufficiently prepared to face another pandemic influenza outbreak in the future. Specifically, gap analysis is applied to the requirements set forth in the VBA Action Grids, Appendices D1 and E1 of the VA Pandemic Influenza Plan. This study concludes with recommendations for preparations, response, and mitigation actions in the event of future pandemic influenza outbreaks.