New Tools for Influenza Preparedness, Use of Patient Surge Sites

​The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) has updated its program called Technical Resources, Assistance Center, and Information Exchange (TRACIE) with two tools on its website related to treating influenza, to help hospitals cope with the recent nationwide influx in influenza cases. (See the February 7, 2018, HRC Alerts: Flu Hospitalization Rate Is Highest in 10 Years, Says CDC. ) The first tool is a checklist designed to help healthcare organizations assess their preparedness for an influenza pandemic and identify potential gaps in planning.