Avian Influenza has been on people's minds lately.  Although animal influenza can and has mutated to humans, it frequently fizzles.   At federal and state encouragement, however, the Croydon selectmen have stepped up to the plate to prepare an all health hazards' response.  Currently the town has a completed plan (as much as any plan is ever completed) for the avian flu and similar health emergencies, appropriate supplies on hand to deal with such a situation, a list of residents who have volunteered to work at dispensing or vaccination clinic, and physicians and nurses to help with such a clinic.  The latter includes Dr. Serena Baskin of New London Family Care Center who is willing to take new patients from Croydon.  She is located in the Sawyer Brook Plaza, Grantham.

 Although a small town with limited resources, we also have fewer areas of concern (no central water supply or septic, e.g.).  Our biggest resource is the wonderful residents who just don't say no when asked to help.  The only resource that the town could use more of is nurses to give injections.  If a true crisis does develop, many of our nurse volunteers may be needed elsewhere.  Nurses who would be willing to help at a clinic can contact the Croydon Health Officer at 863-7830 or croydonhealth@hotmail.com.

 Croydon also continues to work with Sullivan County on regional planning and to put together information for individual family planning.