Pandemic Influenza Simulation: More Than Just a Game

The Indiana Pandemic Influenza Simulation is a creative continuing education opportunity to expand concepts of public health planning and preparedness. The simulation allows individuals to practically apply decision-making skills for their specific responsibilities and roles in the event of an influenza pandemic.

This interactive, web-based simulation(also available on CD) is based on three phases of an influenza pandemic: onset and impact of the first pandemic wave; conditions leading to a second wave and preparation to stand up a point of dispensing (POD) for vaccine distribution; and POD and mass prophylaxis planning and operations. Users can select from roles including Public Health Professional, Public Information Officer, Mental Health Professional, Emergency Management Agency staff, Medical/Hospital Preparedness staff, and POD volunteer, including logistics, and screener the simulation also features varying levels of difficulty and provides the user with a score based upon the user's speed and accuracy of responses.

Levels of difficulty are incorporated into the simulation as well as the ability to play the game multiple times with different events, threats, and outcomes possible.

Evaluation:

This online simulation automatically provides the user with a score, based upon the user's speed and accuracy of responses. SurveyGizmo, a practical online survey tool was also incorporated into the simulation at the end of each level of play to discern customer satisfaction, ease of use, impact on knowledge and skills, and intent to review and/or revise one's preparedness plans. Further evaluation is planned through the Indiana Learning Management System to identify specific attitudinal and behavior changes resulting from participation in the simulation.