Strategic National Stockpile (SNS)
As a program managed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) is part of the federal government’s efforts to increase state and local level preparedness and response to a weapons of mass destruction (chemical, biological, or blast) event, major natural disaster, or technological accident. It consists of multiple containers of medicines, antidotes, and medical supplies that are strategically placed throughout the country for quick deployment to state and local authorities.
In consultation with local/county political and public health leadership (Ms Lillian Rivera, MDCHD Administrator and her staff), the Secretary for the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) will initiate a request for the SNS to the CDC along with concurrent calls to Florida’s Governor, Division of Emergency Management (DEM), Region IV of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and other entities as the situation dictates. Upon receipt by the state, SNS pharmaceuticals will be distributed to the counties in accordance with the state SNS plan.
The Miami-Dade County Health Department (MDCHD) is currently in the planning process to be able to receive and manage the SNS assets at the county level when needed. Several points of distribution (POD’s) have been strategically designated throughout the county for SNS asset management. The POD’s are also being furnished with needed equipment in order to enhance its operational capacity when needed.
Further information can be found at : http://www.bt.cdc.gov/stockpile/index.asp#local
