College and university planning for pandemic influenza: a survey of Philadelphia schools.

OBJECTIVES

This study was undertaken to assess the current state of college and university planning for pandemic influenza and to inform guidance for these institutions.

METHODS

The Philadelphia Department of Public Health developed an interview guide based on CDC guidance and conducted in-depth structured interviews with college and university pandemic planners in Philadelphia.

RESULTS

Thirteen of 14 schools contacted participated in interviews. Six schools, or slightly fewer than half, reported having a draft pandemic influenza plan. Schools noted barriers such as insufficient information and financial resources and institutional support. They reported that they lacked concrete policy recommendations suited to different types of institutions (e.g., small colleges) and lacked the political will to tackle a hypothetical threat. Schools requested further guidance on triggers for campus closure, materials to stockpile, and policies for refunding tuition and adjusting credits for missed coursework.

CONCLUSIONS

School pandemic planning is in its early stages. Local government can provide recommendations as to the appropriate level of planning detail, disseminate examples of best practices planning, and continue to emphasize the importance of all-hazards approaches to emergency planning.