IT Preparedness for an Avian Flu Pandemic 2006

June, 2006

$95.00

Public health authorities are warning that a pandemic of avian flu, commonly known as “bird flu,” is a real possibility. But because pandemics are fundamentally different from the types of disasters commonly envisioned in business continuity plans, most IT organizations are not prepared to face the threat of an avian flu pandemic. As an aid to IT risk managers, this report outlines the specific ways in which pandemics are different from other types of natural disasters. It suggests three planning scenarios, and it outlines specific actions that IT risk managers should consider to prepare for a potential avian flu pandemic. If adequately prepared, the IT group can continue to support critical business functions, and it can provide solutions to help the organization as a whole to get through a pandemic. (7 pp., 1 fig.)
[Executive Summary]