Partnerships That Work: Flu Advisory Board (FAB) in Michigan

Background:
In response to the 2004-2005 influenza vaccine crisis, MDCH assembled a partners meeting. It comprised health-related professional and service organizations from private and public sectors with a common interest to ensure vaccine is available and accessible to those in need. Michigan's Flu Advisory Board (FAB) enhances communication venues so appropriate resources can be deployed timely. FAB fills a gap to ensure that flu vaccine information, delivery, and distribution is consistent statewide.

Setting:
FAB is integrated with the Michigan Advisory Committee on Immunizations (MACI).

Population:
Member organizations include nurse associations, health systems, private practice, health advocacy groups, and local health departments. FluBytes reaches all flu vaccine partners in Michigan.

Project Description:
The primary resource FAB created is the FluBytes newsletter, containing information on surveillance, manufacturing, distribution of vaccine, and key messages. FAB strives to determine more equitable distribution of vaccine, and greater coordination of roles/activities. Subcommittees include: Deployment (of Resources) and Education/Communication (EC-FAB). EC-FAB has been instrumental in working on educational efforts using a “community wide” approach, the development of the “Flu Fighter Action Kit”, and promotion of the “AIM Toolkit”. The creation of an electronic Influenza Vaccine Exchange Network (IVEN) facilitates the exchange of privately purchased flu vaccine. IVEN resides on the Michigan Care Improvement Registry (MCIR) web server, available to approved immunizers in Michigan. FAB works to strengthen the commitment of health professionals to employ vaccination campaigns and/or mandates.

Results/Lessons Learned:
FAB resulted in enhanced coordination of flu activities, fostering a safe venue for diverse partners to receive and share information. It created a communications infrastructure for policy makers and stakeholders. FAB enhanced partner interaction by deploying appropriate resources timely. One of the primary goals achieved: effective communication during urgent situations. Ultimately, there is a clearer understanding of policies and practices by member organizations to vaccinate against influenza.