Candidate: Pandemic preparation needed

Election Notebook, Worcester Telegram & Gazette

October 9, 2006

BROOKFIELD — Stephen J. Comtois II, Republican candidate for state representative in the 5th Worcester District, has criticized the legislature for its inaction in preparing for a flu pandemic.

“As we approach flu season, it’s a real shame to know that since June, the pandemic flu preparedness bill has been collecting dust before the House Ways and Means Committee. The point of this legislation is to be proactive and not reactive — we want to prevent a pandemic before it strikes to ensure that the commonwealth has a sufficient amount of ventilators and has stockpiled food and medication,” Mr. Comtois said.

He cited state Department of Public Health figures estimating that up to 40 percent of the state’s population could become sick during a pandemic, and it could kill as many as 20,000 people in Massachusetts.

Based on historical patterns, Public Health Commissioner Paul J. Cote Jr. noted that “we’re due” for another flu pandemic, Mr. Comtois said.

“The legislature had time to talk about Fluffernutter, but failed to pass this critical legislation to protect the people. This is the main responsibility of the government, to protect and secure its citizens, and I can’t wait to be sent to the Statehouse to get the job done,” the candidate stated.