WASHINGTON, DC – In an Energy and Commerce Committee hearing on “Preparing for the 2009 Pandemic Flu,” U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak (D-Menominee) said he will continue to monitor federal response efforts related to the H1N1 flu in his position as chairman of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations. 

“It is critical we take the H1N1 flu seriously, acting quickly and efficiently so that those most at risk have the knowledge and vaccines they need to stay healthy,” Stupak said.  “I want to ensure that funding and other resources are being distributed to state and local health agencies, that the infrastructure is in place to distribute flu vaccines in a timely fashion, and that extra precautions are being taken in border communities.”

In questioning U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius, Stupak pointed out many states, including Michigan, face financial crises that could hinder the purchase and stockpile of antivirals.   As co-chairman of the Northern Border Caucus, Stupak also pointed to the need for a cooperative strategy with Canada to address the H1N1 flu because of the constant flow of goods and people across the Northern Border.

“In our communities, particularly in rural communities, our local public health agencies, hospitals and clinics will shoulder the responsibility for responding to a public health crisis,” Stupak said.  “It is vital they receive financial support from the federal government to address the wide range of issues related to preventing and treating an H1N1 flu outbreak.”

Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved four vaccines against the 2009 H1N1 virus. The vaccine is targeted to be available to certain priority groups beginning in mid-October.  Priority groups include pregnant women; health care workers and emergency medical responders; people caring for infants under six months of age; children and young adults six months to 24 years of age; and people aged 25 to 64 with underlying medical conditions such as asthma or diabetes.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, as of September 3, 2009 H1N1 cases have been reported in 53 states and territories.  The flu virus, including H1N1 flu, spreads primarily through person-to-person contact.  Public health officials recommend the public take the following steps to reduce the spread of the flu virus: washing hands, covering coughs, and staying home when sick.

Congressman Stupak recently recorded two public service announcements (PSAs) with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) talking about ways to protect yourself and stay informed about the H1N1 virus.  The PSAs, along with information on H1N1, are available on the congressman’s Web site at www.house.gov/stupak.

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