Oregon Governor authorizes next steps in H1N1 response preparations

Executive Order gives public health director clear authority to respond as needed

Nov. 5, 2009 -- (Salem) - Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski today issued Executive Order 09-17 to grant the state’s public health director, Dr. Mel Kohn, additional authority to respond proactively to pandemic H1N1 influenza. By issuing the order now, Governor Kulongoski has provided Dr. Kohn with the ability to implement quickly public health protections provided by state law.

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“In order to do all we can to protect the public, I have provided Dr. Kohn with the ability to take additional steps to protect the health of Oregonians,” said Governor Kulongoski. “These measures are not needed now, but should that change, Dr. Kohn can take action without delay.”

The order builds upon the steps the state has taken since spring to educate the public about pandemic H1N1 influenza, how to prevent the spread of the virus and how to prepare should a family member become infected. The state also has encouraged schools, businesses and communities to prepare by updating continuity and response plans.

While the state currently works directly with local and tribal governments and county health departments, decisions are made within jurisdictional lines. It could become necessary for a public health measure to be implemented across county or tribal lines. With this order, Dr. Kohn would be able to make decisions about public health responses across jurisdictions if needed.

With this order, Dr. Kohn may also exercise greater authority over the allocation and distribution of available medical supplies, including the vaccine, and protective equipment such as masks and gloves. The state has already filled requests from county and tribal governments for approximately 4,240 courses of antiviral medications, 129,091 N95 face masks, 141,000 surgical masks, 810 gowns, 9,700 gloves, and 1,716 face shields.

Dr. Kohn may also issue guidelines to health care providers regarding required treatments, to businesses regarding work restrictions or direct a district school board to close a school.

“Dr. Kohn and state and local public health officials work every day to protect the health and safety of Oregonians,” said Governor Kulongoski. “With this order, we are taking every step necessary to minimize the impact of H1N1 on our communities.”

Source: Oregon Governor