As a result of the tragic events of
September 11, 2001, our nation has had to become more aware of and be
better prepared for mass terrorism response. We have to prepare for a
possible attack by WMD (Weapons of Mass Destruction), including
Biological, Chemical, Radiological, and Nuclear weapons. We must also
be prepared for any type of Natural Disaster. On the local level, the
Mineral County Health Department has been directed by the West Virginia
State Health Department to plan for any disaster response and to
integrate the response with that of local Office of Emergency Services (OES),
Law Enforcement, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and Local Emergency
Planning Committee (LEPC).
A Medical Reserve Corps is being formed, composed primarily of
medically trained people in our area. Any interested persons with
skills in the medical field would be welcome to participate in this
process. Please contact Mineral County Health Department for further
information. A plan exists to procure medications and antidotes to be used to
protect and treat citizens against various types of bioterrorism agents. The local Health Department will play a significant role should such
response become necessary.
