The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has allocated $1,382,741 for Hawaii's Department of Health out of a total $24 million awarded nationally to fund 55 influenza pandemic preparedness projects.

The four Hawaii Health Department projects being funded are: Countermeasure and State Immunization Information Systems Integration ($350,374); Public Engagement Demonstration Project on Pandemic Influenza ($178,112); Distribution and Dispensing of Antiviral Drugs to Self-isolated or Self-quarantined Persons ($136,255); and Electronic Laboratory Data Exchange ($718,000).

Dr. Chiyome Fukino, state health director, said the funds “;will allow us to move forward with innovative approaches for influenza pandemic preparedness. ... Securing federal funds is especially important as we seek creative ways to increase service to the public in the wake of current financial challenges.”;