Title: ELCA Offers Resources for Possible Flu Pandemic ELCA NEWS SERVICE
July 20, 2006
ELCA Offers Resources for Possible Flu Pandemic 06-108-KH*
CHICAGO (ELCA) -- Domestic Disaster Response of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) has prepared resources for congregations in event of a flu pandemic. Although avian flu is currently limited to fowl and is only occasionally transmitted to people in close contact with infected birds, infectious disease experts indicate that the virus could adapt and spread among people, said Heather L. Feltman, director of ELCA Domestic Disaster Response (DDR), in a July message posted on the ELCA Web site. If this occurs, the world may be faced with a flu pandemic, she said.
A document, "Responding Faithfully to Pandemic Flu," was created to prepare congregations in the event of a pandemic, according to the message. It refers directly to ELCA social statements on what it means to be a public church and the roles of congregations. The document is available at http://www.ELCA.org/disaster/pandemic/faithfulresponse.asp on the ELCA Web site.
"Congregational Planning for Flu Pandemic" is a resource guide for congregations preparing for a possible pandemic. The document includes information on communication, worship and community outreach in the event of a pandemic. The guide is at http://www.ELCA.org/disaster/pandemic/congregations.asp on the ELCA Web site.
DDR has also compiled a "top 10" list of ways to prepare for a possible pandemic, urging congregations to "reach out to community groups and public health officials" and "consider the special needs of the most vulnerable people in your congregation and community." The list is available at http://www.ELCA.org/disaster/pandemic/TopTen.asp on the ELCA Web site.
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Disaster resources are available at
http://www.ELCA.org/disaster/resources/ on the ELCA Web site.
*Katherine R. Hinck is a senior journalism and religion major at Augustana College, Sioux Falls, S.D. This summer she is an intern with the ELCA News Service. Information provided by ELCA Domestic Disaster Response.
For information contact:
John Brooks, Director (773) 380-2958 or news@elca.org http://www.elca.org/news ELCA News Blog: http://www.elca.org/news/blog