Public health emergency preparedness and response, which includes preparing for natural events like hurricanes and flooding, also includes preparing for and responding to bioterrorism (the intentional use of infectious agents or germs to cause illness) or to other threats, such as chemical or nuclear incidents.
For the past several years St. Mary’s County Health Department has been working with the local medical community and the St. Mary’s County Department of Public Safety to increase the ability to detect and respond to all hazards. The health department also coordinates planning with Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
The role of St. Mary’s County Health Department:
-
Respond to public inquiries and medical community regarding exposure, symptoms, and treatment recommendations.
-
Help to investigate the risk of individuals to exposure, consult with the State and the Centers for Disease Control and recommend appropriate action.
-
Provide preventative treatment to exposed individuals.
-
Educate the public about the risk of exposure and appropriate actions.
-
Collect information on cases or exposures in St. Mary’s County.
CDC - Public Health Emergency Preparedness & Response
-
Facts about specific agents, diseases and other threats.
-
Additional topics and resources relating to public health preparedness and
response.
What steps should you take to protect yourself and your family?
If a public emergency or hazardous event occurs in St. Mary’s County, the public would be informed through the news media, the St. Mary’s County Health Department Website, and the St. Mary’s County Website regarding the best steps to take to protect your health.
Links
To learn more: