Public Health Emergency Weekly Report

Public Health Emergency Weekly Report

Volunteering in tough conditions to protect health today and promote disaster preparedness for tomorrow  The Annual Bataan Memorial Death March is tough.  The 26.2 mile march through hot, rugged terrain lasts for 14 hours. Hundreds or even thousands of the 5,800 marchers are likely to need medical attention during the march – making this a “planned mass casualty” event.  The New Mexico Medical Reserve Corps is an important part of the team that gets participants the help they need while learning valuable lessons about health emergencies. Learn More >>

Federal Response by the Numbers in Flint, MI Did you know that there are over 100 federal staff on the ground in Flint working with residents, community leaders and officials from state and county agencies?  Or that 99 percent of Flint residents have access to bottled water and 89 percent have access to filters?  Or that 30,000 current Medicaid beneficiaries will receive expanded services?  Check out the federal response in Flint by the numbers to see what we're doing to help the community recover.  Learn More >>

From the HHS Blog:  Swift federal action moves Flint toward recovery Dr. Lurie is leading administration efforts to ensure Flint families have access to safe water and services to mitigate any harmful impacts of lead contamination.  Find out how the federal government is working with state and local partners and the community to ensure safe water and restore the system; protect health; and support economic recovery.  Learn More >>

HHS deploys Assistant Surgeon General to serve as temporary Senior Advisor to Flint Mayor Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response Dr. Nicole Lurie and Mayor Karen Weaver announced that Rear Admiral (RADM) Michelle E. Dunwoody, an assistant U.S. surgeon general, will serve as a temporary senior advisor to Mayor Weaver. RADM Dunwoody will supervise a Corps-based community engagement team, work with Mayor Weaver on goals for the City of Flint Public Health and Medical Recovery Plan, and help address other priorities.  Learn More >>

Dialysis and kidney transplant patients: Prepare so you can stay healthy in a disaster Dialysis and kidney transplant patients need to add a few steps to their emergency plans to ensure their health and safety during and after disasters. For example, you should talk to your center about options for early dialysis if you know a storm is coming.  Fill out a patient identification card if you are on dialysis. Learn about other steps that you can take to stay healthy during a disaster.  Learn More >>

Save the Date! #SafetyFacts Twitter Chat

Have you ever heard a preparedness myth like, “In an emergency, only first responders need to know what to do”?@PrepareAthon will host a Twitter chat on Wednesday, March 30 at 2:00 p.m. EDT to help debunk common myths about emergencies and answer your questions. Emergency professionals across the country will provide facts on preparing for and staying safe during emergencies.  To follow the Twitter chat use #SafetyFacts.