The agency did report finding common types of avian flu viruses in North American wild birds, according to a news release. These viruses are less likely to cause symptoms in or kill domestic birds. The USGS, along with other federal and state agencies, will continue testing live and dead birds this year, with special attention on birds in Alaska. Alaska is one of the most likely places for H5N1 to enter the continent through migratory birds, the news release said.
Anchorage flu 'cabinet' meets
Mayor Mark Begich has organized a new "cabinet" of community, health and business leaders to discuss ways to prepare for a pandemic that could be caused by a bird flu virus. The group met Thursday and discussed pros and cons of closing public facilities, what situations might warrant closing schools, the role of local business leaders and more. The group will meet again in April. Members are:
• Bruce Bustamante, president and chief executive officer of the Anchorage Convention and Visitors Bureau
• Thomas Case, dean of the University of Alaska Anchorage College of Business and Public Policy
• Carol Comeau, Anchorage School District superintendent
• Katherine Gottlieb, CEO of Southcentral Foundation and the Alaska Native Medical Center
• Joe Gulley, district manager of Carrs/Safeway district office
• Tony Izzo, president and CEO of Enstar Natural Gas Co.
• Ed Lamb, CEO of Alaska Regional Hospital
• Al Parrish, regional vice president and CEO of Providence Health System Alaska
• Mary Ann Pease, president of Anchorage Chamber of Commerce
• Bob Poe, president of the Anchorage Economic Development Corp.
• William Sheffield, former governor, director of the Port of Anchorage
• John Tracy, news director for KTUU Channel 2.
City starts disaster registry
The municipality wants residents vulnerable to a flu pandemic or other emergency to sign up for help in a new disaster registry. The Anchorage Office of Emergency Management created the registry for people including seniors and those with disabilities.
The registry will help emergency responders find vulnerable residents after a disaster as well as provide special evacuation or medical care. The list will be kept confidentially at the city's Emergency Operations Center and at local fire stations.
Mayor Mark Begich said all residents should have at least five to seven days' worth of supplies for remaining self-sufficient at home, including food, water and medications.
For more information about registering, call 343-7070 or visit www.muni.org/oem.
Reporter Ann Potempa can be reached at 257-4581.
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