Promoting a Common Understanding of the Overall COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Strategy
On October 22nd, the ASPR Division of Critical Infrastructure Protection offered a briefing of the current Operation Warp Speed COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Strategy and potential opportunities for engagement and collaboration with public and private critical health infrastructure stakeholders.
During this 90 minute briefing session speakers from Operation Warp Speed (OWS), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Northwell Health System, Association of Immunization Managers, and Harris County Health Department provided an overview of the distribution logistics, security, and planning assumptions related to the COVID-19 vaccine, as well as perspectives from entities involved in the jurisdictional planning process. Following presentations, a facilitated panel discussion with OWS and CDC leaders informed by questions expressed by sector stakeholders was held. The full agenda can be found below.
The goal of the session for critical health infrastructure stakeholders was to promote a common understanding of the overall vaccine distribution strategy, as well as current activities, challenges, and opportunities for coordination and engagement.
Agenda:
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Opening Remarks
Laura Wolf, ASPR CIP /HPH GCC Chair
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Welcome Remarks
Dr. Robert Kadlec, Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, HHS
Major General Christopher Sharpsten, Operation Warp Speed, HHS
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Overview of OWS Strategy
Explanation of Phased approach – MG Chris Sharpsten
Ancillary Packages – Ms. Marion Whicker and CAPT Brian Durant
Overview of Distribution Process – LTC Jonathan Meisel
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CDC Microplans Review
Anita Patel, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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Strategy Implementation at Jurisdictional Level
Michael McClendon – Harris County Health Department, Houston, TX
Mark Jarrett – Northwell Health System
Claire Hannan – Association of Immunization Managers
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Panel Discussion of pre-submitted questions and opportunities for further collaboration
