Public Health Preparedness

Examples of the need to protect the public’s health from disease, disasters and bioterrorism abound. In 2017, the Atlantic hurricane season was historic. Hurricane Harvey in Texas, and Irma and Maria in the Caribbean, caused unprecedented levels of damage and disruption. In addition, Ebola and Zika outbreaks continue to be a concern.

As a nation, are we adequately prepared to address health threats, including natural disasters, disease outbreaks and bioterrorism? Although such preparedness is improving in many communities, there is still much more work that needs to be done, including consistent and sustained planning, coordination and increased preparedness funding.