The Department of Homeland Security has received a $47 million budget to put plans in place to prevent future pandemics--but despite that budget, which was intended for planning and training, the department is ill-prepared for such events.
A report released Monday by the DHS Office of the Inspector General shows that the majority of its antiviral drugs--81 percent--are due to expire in 2015. Much of its hand sanitizer has already expired, some by more than four years, and much of its agencies' personal protective equipment is missing.
"A severe influenza pandemic presents a tremendous challenge, which may affect millions of Americans, cause significant illnesses and fatalities, and substantially disrupt our economic and social stability," the report said. "It is DHS’s responsibility to ensure it is adequately prepared to continue critical operations in the event of a pandemic."
DHS has not complied with department guides and let its replenishment plans lapse, leaving the United States vulnerable to a variety of pandemics. The report focused on influenza but covered the Department of Homeland Security's overall preparedness for all potential pandemics.
The inspector's recommendations include the creation of an office to oversee further pandemic preparedness strategies to ensure a thorough supply management system is in place. DHS agreed with all of the inspector's recommendations.