Bioterrorism and Public Health Preparedness

With our region facing the threat for natural disasters, disease outbreaks, and deliberate or man-made attacks at any time, the St. Charles County Department of Public Health and the Division of Emergency Management coordinate with local, state, and federal agencies to prepare our community’s response and safety efforts. While the likelihood that a widespread event would occur in our county (or in surrounding areas) is low, if a disaster does happen a plan has been developed to provide medical assistance and protection for residents that would mitigate damage and reduce the disruption of operations.

The Role of Public Health

With any number of potentially dangerous public health emergencies possible, the Department of Public Health's role is to monitor conditions and provide necessary medical resources in order to protect the people of St. Charles County. This effort is conducted through a dedicated team of emergency response planners, epidemiological specialists, communications officers and more. This core team works with other medical responders, community leaders and volunteers to routinely address public health concerns.

The Role of Emergency Management

The Division of Emergency Management promotes unified planning and coordinates the county-wide response in the event of natural or man-made disasters. EMD also assists local governments in the development of their plans, exercises and training programs. The agency maintains a modern federally funded Emergency Operations Center.  

Your Role as an Individual Family

Even with this regional effort, part of the responsibility falls upon you. By doing whatever you can to prepare in advance, to practice your routine and to respond to information provided, you will help to ensure the well-being of yourself and others.

The Community's Role

Many organizations (public service, private sector and non-profit alike) have provided assistance in the development and practice of these response efforts. By providing necessary assets, volunteering personnel or resources and joining the communication tree, we all have a vested interest in our community.