Dear Commissioners, School Board Members, Mr. Herr, Dr. McKinzie and County School & Emergency Management Staff,

The Federal Health & Human Services Department (HHS) and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) have advised public health agencies across the nation to begin planning for a national H1N1 vaccination campaign this fall. In addition, local health departments will continue surveillance and response efforts that have been in place since April when the new flu virus was first discovered.

Although this new flu virus has caused mild illnesses, it may strengthen or become more widespread in the fall of this year. Thus far we have confirmed over 3 dozen cases with no large clusters. Other parts of Florida are still dealing with sporadic clusters and rare severe illness in those with asthma, heart disease or other chronic condition. But for our planning purposes, even "mild flu" can keep people out of work or school for days while seriously sickening those with chronic disease. Absenteeism in large numbers could impact daily operations of many enterprises such as hospitals, schools, government, and other businesses. Community reactions to perceived risks can also impact these same entities.