The New Zealand Influenza Pandemic Plan sets outs the all-of-government strategy and framework for action. It can be adopted and applied to any pandemic event.
Pandemic influenza
One of the most commonly known pandemics is an influenza pandemic.
An influenza pandemic occurs when a new influenza virus emerges and spreads around the world, and most people do not have immunity. The pandemic will have a big impact on society and the economy, and will put pressure on the health system.
The Ministry of Health continually monitors the national and international situation on current and new infectious diseases, including influenza.
New Zealand Influenza Pandemic Plan
The Ministry of Health has a national pandemic plan, the New Zealand Influenza Pandemic Plan (2nd edition, 2017).
This plan sets outs the all-of-government strategy and framework for action.
It can be adopted and applied to any pandemic, regardless of the nature of the virus and its severity.
The health sector and other government agencies also have emergency plans which cover pandemics.
Why we all must plan for a pandemic
It is important that individuals, workplaces and Government plan for a pandemic so we can:
- minimise the impact of the disease on the people of New Zealand
- enable society to continue to function as normally as possible during and after a pandemic
- minimise the impact on our economy.
The Ministry of Health is working with the health sector and other government agencies to ensure New Zealand is as prepared as possible for a potential pandemic.