EDWARDS COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT

622 West 8th Street, Kinsley, Kansas

Emergency Preparedness

Pandemic Flu

Our department is working very hard on our plan to protect our community in the event of a Pandemic Breakout. With many hours of training and preparation we will have the ability to provide our community with all that is needed during a public health disaster!!!

Here is some information about Pandemic Flu

Pandemic influenza is a worldwide outbreak of disease that occurs when a new influenza “A” virus, to which people have little or no immunity, appears in humans and then spreads easily from person to person. The ways to avoid spreading such a virus would be the same as for the seasonal flu: wash your hands, cover your coughs and sneezes, and stay home if you are sick.

Three major influenza pandemics swept the globe during the 20th century, and no one knows when the next pandemic may strike.

Learn to control the spread of flu viruses:
- Wash your hands
- Stay home when you’re sick
- Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze
- Avoid crowds during outbreaks
- Get a yearly flu vaccination

Participate in emergency preparedness efforts in your community. Contact your county emergency manager, the American Red Cross or your local health department for more information.
Remain informed. Pay attention to national and world events, and learn about ways you would receive instructions during an emergency, such as the Emergency Broadcast System. Purchase a NOAA Weather Alert radio, which will provide information not only about weather emergencies, but any widespread emergency affecting your community.

For more information click here.

ARE YOU READY???

Everyone should have a plan!

The likelihood of you and your family surviving a house fire depends as much on having a working smoke detector and an exit strategy, as on a well-trained fire department. The same is true for surviving a terrorist attack or other emergency. We must have the tools and plans in place to make it on our own, at least for a period of time, no matter where we are when disaster strikes. Just like having a working smoke detector, preparing for the unexpected makes sense. Get ready now.

READ THIS FOR INFORMATION ON HOW YOU CAN BE PREPARED!

Here is an EMERGENCY SUPPLY CHECKLIST

What is Bioterrorism?

Bioterrorism is the intentional use of (or threat to use) biological agents like anthrax or plague to hurt people, create fear, and/or disrupt society.

What is chemical terrorism?

Chemical terrorism is the intentional use of (or threat to use) chemical agents, such as sarin or cyanide, to hurt people, create fear, and/or disrupt society.

What is Kansas doing to protect the public from Bioterrorism or any other public health emergency?

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has been preparing for several years to respond to any possible attack that could threaten the public health and safety of the state's residents. Working closely with local health departments, hospitals, health care professionals, and public safety agencies, KDHE has developed plans to minimize the risk and to treat those who may become ill. KDHE is continually enhancing laboratory, surveillance, and communication capabilities to be better prepared for all types of public health emergencies.

In the event of a terrorist attack, state officials would direct a coordinated response among public health, emergency management, law enforcement, fire departments, and other local, state, and federal agencies.

To report suspected acts of bioterrorism, call: