Health is the unity and harmony of body, mind, and spirit in relationship with God, self, others, and the environment.
Health Ministries Network of Minnesota (HMN-MN) is a nonprofit, 501(c)3, interfaith organization committed to encouraging, supporting and developing whole-person ministries throughout Minnesota. We welcome people from adjoining states to be part of this network as affiliate members.
Disaster Preparedness
Most resource sheets are presented in a PDF file, so you will need to have access to Acrobat Reader. Please visit the Adobe Acrobat Reader web site at www.adobe.com to download this free software.
CDC - Pandemic(Avian) Influenza (Flu) | Current Situation
World Health Organization
- www.who.int
- 5 Keys to Safer Food (pdf 120KB)
- Cumulative Number of Confirmed Human Cases of Avian Influenza A (pdf 236KB)
Facing the Unknown Future with Fear and Faith (pdf 24KB)
Rev. David F. Carlson, former President, HMN-MN
When we hear the news predictions and read the stories about "what could happen" if the avian flu hits America and the rest of the world,we can get pretty fearful. The words from the experts seem to be very scary and fill us with fear. They are saying, not "if" but "when"it happens!
Facing the Future Unknowns.. but what can I do? (pdf 24KB)
Rev. David F. Carlson, former President, HMN-MN
It is most human to have moments of deep concern, even fear or panic, when we hear about potential or predicted catastrophes or epidemics like avian flu. It can put us off balance and plunge us into a worrisome state. These are real feelings and are the start of an appropriate response. But just a start.
How Caregivers Care for Themselves (pdf 20KB)
Rev. David F. Carlson, former President, HMN-MN
Whether you are an experienced caregiver or more recently started in a new care giving, you know the pressures you face everyday to fulfill your difficult and demanding roles. Considering some of these suggestions for coping with the stress of compassionate care giving may help you and your fellow caregivers.
Faith-based & Community Organizations Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Checklist (pdf 52KB)
The collaboration of Faith-Based and Community Organizations with public health agencies will be essential in protecting the public's health and safety if and when an influenza pandemic occurs. This checklist provides guidance for religious organizations (churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, etc.), social service agencies that are faith based, and community organizations in developing and improving influenza pandemic response and preparedness plans. Many of the points suggested here can improve your organization's ability to protect your community during emergencies in general. You can find more information at www.pandemicflu.gov.
Flu Terms Defined
Seasonal (or common) flu is a respiratory illness that can be transmitted person to person. Most people have some immunity, and a vaccine is available.
Avian (or bird) flu is caused by influenza viruses that occur naturally among wild birds. The H5N1 variant is deadly to domestic fowl and can be transmitted from birds to humans. There is no human immunity and no vaccine is available.
Pandemic flu is virulent human flu that causes a global outbreak, or pandemic, of serious illness. Because there is little natural immunity, the disease can spread easily from person to person. Currently, there is no pandemic flu.