Scope and Procedures
There are global concerns that there will be a influenza virus having the potential to mutate into a new and easily transmissible form that could cause an influenza pandemic.  LSCS is committed to advancing our level of preparedness to best meet this possible threat.

LSCS is actively engaged in the development and refinement of an emergency plan that allows the System to respond quickly and effectively in the event of a pandemic influenza outbreak. The plan outlines specific processes for managing the threat to the health and safety of the campus community and disruptions to its programs and activities as a result of a serious, widespread influenza outbreak. The plan identifies departments and individuals that are directly responsible for emergency response and critical services. It also provides a management structure for coordinating and deploying essential resources.

LSCS' response to pandemic influenza is guided by the threat level of a pandemic, and builds upon existing internal and external supports. We continue to work closely with local and state officials in refining the plan. This site will be updated as new pandemic related information becomes available.

The LSCS Pandemic Plan is summarized below:
 
Phase I: Confirmed cases of animal-to-human transmission outside of the U.S.
• Maintain daily operations
• Monitor information regarding global disease activity
• Develop and maintain plans
• Educate students, faculty, and staff on plan components through our website (www.lonestar.edu), and printed materials, and where needed, teleconferences
• Provide training for campus personnel (student services, police, facilities, etc.)
• Provide background information on the disease and personal preventative measures
• Review, revise, and exercise policies and procedures

Phase II: Confirmed cases of sustained human-to-human transmission outside of the U.S.
• Assess the vulnerability of LSCS students and employees who have recently traveled or plan to travel outside the U.S. and take appropriate actions
• Assess the vulnerability of LSCS students and employees who are currently abroad and take appropriate actions
• Provide daily/weekly updates on the progression of the disease via our website (www.lonestar.edu) and email
• Alert LSCS senior management and first responders leadership

Phase III: Sporadic cases of human-to-human transmission in the U.S. or Texas
• Increase disease surveillance, providing timely updates to the LSCS community
• Schedule Q&A sessions for students and employees
• Maintain daily contact with the Harris County Environmental and Health Safety Services (HCEHSS) and the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) regarding outbreak status, as well as health departments in Montgomery County
• Activate reporting mechanism for employees and students
• Modify campus events and schedules as needed including athletic and academic events and travel plans
• Notify LSCS response units (police, facilities, etc.)

Phase IV: Confirmed case(s) on campus or widespread confirmed cases in the greater Houston area
• Implement isolation and quarantine policies
• Implement alternative work schedule policies
• Notify the state and county health departments
• Provide regular updates to the state and county health agencies, Board of Trustees and other vital entities
• Deliver classes via different avenues and provide only essential operations
• Issue regular press updates