Iredell County Health Department
Public Health Emergency Preparedness
Public Health Emergency Preparedness
Preparedness in Iredell County
Health Care Providers should immediately call the Iredell County Department if they suspect a serious or life-threatening communicable disease at 704-878-5300.
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What is the mission of the Public Health emergency preparedness?
The mission of the Iredell County Public Health Emergency Preparedness program is to provide organized and quick responses during disasters and emergencies. Public Health emergencies can include natural events (flooding, tornadoes, hurricanes, etc.) and planned acts (like the use of weapons for mass destruction and bioterrorism). The Emergency Preparedness program provides services such as education, training and information on public health emergencies. |
Do you live in the Emergency Planning Zones (EPZ) for McGuire Nuclear Power Plant?
View the Map Here
To learn how to get Potassium Iodide (KI) pills to prepare for nuclear emergencies call 704-761-2487. |
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What is Bioterrorism?
Bioterrorism is a different type of terrorism. It involves the use of organisms for the purpose of spreading potentially deadly illnesses, viruses and infections. Bioterrorism is the illegal use of microorganisms or toxins to cause death or sickness in humans, animals, or plants. This is done to create fear, cause injury and/or death, and to threaten governments and communities. |
What does Public Health do to prepare for disasters and emergencies?
Public Health has an important role in preparedness and response. Public Health response includes recognizing the disease and stopping and preventing the spread of disease. During outbreaks the department may set up dispensing sites to pass out medications and provide information to the community on ways to avoid catching the illness.
In the event of a disaster or emergency, the Iredell County Health Department has emergency procedures to help protect the community. These procedures include sharing information with the public on ways residents can protect themselves, and agreements with specific local agencies to set up medication clinics, as necessary. Finally, the Iredell County Health Department participates as a member of the emergency response community to work collaboratively on any public health emergency.
Additional Resources:
North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services
North Carolina Public Health Preparedness & Response
North Carolina Emergency Management Agency
ReadyNC.gov
http://redcrosshelps.org/
If you have questions or would like more information contact the Public Health Emergency Preparedness Department at 704-761-2487 or smigit@co.iredell.nc.us
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