Best practices and lessons learned from community mitigation efforts during the H1N1 pandemic

Background: During a pandemic, community mitigation efforts may include quarantine and isolation. Children and their families are susceptible to adverse mental health outcomes if not prepared to be separated from family and social networks. Adequate planning and protection of vulnerable populations in pandemic situations has become a contemporary social justice issue warranting increased attention at the national, state and local levels. Methods: A systematic review of all State Pandemic Preparedness and Response plans was done to assess the utility of the guidelines to address the needs of children and families. Qualitative data from focus groups and interviews from public health professionals in Kentucky, Texas, Florida, Arizona, California and New York was collected to assess public health responses to the Fall 2009 outbreak of H1N1. Results: The pandemic plans of the states varied in detail; ultimately though, little specific attention was given apriori to the needs of families and children facing quarantine or isolation. As the pandemic unfolded, however, examples of best practice strategies emerged in cities with epidemic rates of illness that can be instructive in future pandemic events. Conclusions: State planners often overlook the unique challenges facing families and children during quarantine and isolation. The mental health consequences of being underprepared for separation can be dire and lasting. During the 2009 H1N1 pandemic, strategies were developed to address some of these challenges. This presentation highlights these lessons learned and makes recommendations for best practice guidelines for families and children facing quarantine and isolation during pandemic situations.