STUDENT PAPER: Crisis Communication Case Study 21 of 23
prepared to adjust the response mechanisms as new issues arose. Seeger (2002) states that minor
variances in a system can result in major issues that are often unpredictable. He advocates a system of
self-organization where crisis response strategies are determined as issues present themselves. A clearer
understanding of chaos theory may help crisis managers cope with the uncertainty of crisis situation.
The Sarasota County Health Department employed a variety of strategies to effectively manage
the public health issues connected with the flu vaccine crisis. The county illustrated that partnerships,
environmental scanning, appropriate information, and innovation are all elements of a successful crisis
response strategy. The department’s management and communication model serve as a guide for effective
crisis management.