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
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