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(Lincoln, NE) Gov. Dave Heineman announced that U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns is scheduled to address Nebraska’s Pandemic Flu Response Summit on Thursday, Feb. 23. Secretary Johanns is expected to highlight planning for a bird flu outbreak in the U.S.
“Agriculture is a big part of Nebraska’s economy and a pandemic flu outbreak in our state would present serious challenges when it comes to protecting livestock and ensuring the safety of our food supply,” Gov. Heineman said. “I’m very pleased Secretary Johanns will join us to address issues related to pandemic flu preparedness from an agricultural perspective.”
Secretary Johanns will join U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Mike Leavitt in addressing participants. Secretary Leavitt is continuing his 50-state tour to share information and encourage pandemic flu preparedness. Other presenters include Dr. John Agwunobi, HHS Assistant Secretary for Health, Al Martinez-Fonts with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and Sen. Chuck Hagel.
Dr. Joann Schaefer, Nebraska’s Chief Medical Officer said, “This summit will provide need-to-know information for every Nebraskan. Pandemic flu is a both a public health issue and an ag issue. While bird flu is not easily transmitted among people, the potential remains for the current strain of the virus to mutate, becoming more contagious to people. It’s important for everyone to be aware of the potential for an outbreak and that we take steps to prepare now.”
The summit is free and open to the public. Walk-ins are welcome and registration will be available in the Lied Center lobby beginning at 12:30 p.m.
Those unable to attend the summit in Lincoln have the opportunity to participate via videoconference from one of more than 20 cities across the state via Nebraska’s Telehealth Network. The summit will also be broadcast live on Nebraska Education Television channel 2 (NET2). Check local listings for availability.
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