Pandemic Influenza Plan - Questar III

Section 9: Communications
• A JIC will be located at the Emergency Coordination Center (ECC) at SEMO.
An alternative, “virtual” JIC or “near site” JIC location will be considered,
according to the specifics of the emergency and the needs of the media.
Target audiences
Although target audiences will remain the same during a Pandemic Period, enhanced
tactics and channels will be utilized to address the increased public information and risk
communication needs of:
• Members of the media;
• General public;
• Elected leaders;
• Special populations;
• Local health departments;
• Healthcare providers;
• NYSDOH employees;
• Other State agencies.
Media: The media will be the primary information resource for all target audiences
during a Pandemic Period. It must be recognized that the media will play an essential role
in creating an informed public. However, inaccurate or exaggerated press reports can
fuel public concern far in excess of an actual health risk. Thus, there must be a constant
source of timely “official” public information to reduce rumors that otherwise will
quickly fill an information vacuum. To ensure message accuracy and coordination,
during a pandemic period, NYSDOH PAG will continue as the single point of contact
within the Department for media inquiries.
PAG press office staff will be available to assist with press calls, and risk communication
staff, with Bureau of Health Media and Marketing staff as backup, will be available to
take messages for callbacks, and/or direct reporters to alternate sources of information
(e.g., the Department’s website, press releases, fact sheets, etc).
Because of the anticipated volume of media inquiries, regular updates on pandemic
influenza incidence and the New York State response will be posted on the NYSDOH
public website upon the direction of PAG. Press releases, fact sheets, public service
announcements and incident-specific updates, such as travel advisories, will also be
posted.
PAG will coordinate media briefings and provide access to spokespersons/Subject Matter
Experts in consultation with the Governor’s Office of Communications (Press Office).
PAG and/or risk communication staff will participate in a JIC at the direction of the Press
Office. If social distancing is necessary, telebriefings may be substituted for media
availabilities/press conferences. Should there be a need for mass prophylaxis at a State
February 7, 2006 9-9