Continued development of the Health Alert Network (HAN) proceeded in order to assist us in notifying pertinent community contacts in the event of a public health emergency. This network database, and associated E-mail and fax system, now has over 400 entries. Information on job classifications, addresses, fax numbers, cell phone numbers and other important contact information can be rapidly accessed and allow for the quick relay of information. The five major groupings include government employees, physicians, first responders/EMS, schools, and a large category which includes everything from the media and pharmacies to funeral homes and senior citizen housing. This network will prove invaluable in time of public need.
Our long range efforts have shifted somewhat from Smallpox Planning to a more “all-hazard” type of preparation. Our plan can be used for all situations such as natural disasters, catastrophic events, disease outbreaks and terrorism. A major component of our plan involves the mass dispensing of antibiotics, antivirals or vaccines in response to these events. Additionally, we have acquired medical supplies required to equip a large medication dispensing clinic on 24 hours notice. These ancillary supplies include bandages, gauze, gloves, personal protective equipment, surgical masks, radios, and other necessary equipment.
 As a test of our preparedness, the Health District participated in a statewide full scale exercise on April 19, 2006. This Point of Dispensing (POD) Drill was a test of the distribution of the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) pharmaceuticals into the local community. With the help of 235 local volunteers, including nurses, doctors, and first responders, we administered nearly 500 doses of placebo antibiotics to “volunteer” patients. The drill was conducted at Pomperaug High School in Southbury in an all day effort. The District was one of only seven regional drills conducted in CT and was a joint effort between the State Department of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and the CT Department of Homeland Security. This massive effort involved eight months of planning and we had the full cooperation of numerous town agencies including State and local police, ambulance companies, fire departments, Region 15 School District, Southbury Training School and many other civic and volunteer groups. Additionally, we worked with numerous other Health Departments in the planning and execution of the drill. The POD Drill was a complete test of all emergency functions including security, notification, Incident Command (ICS), triage, medical evaluation, patient education and rapid, efficient dispensing of needed medications. We wish to thank all the groups and individual who participated in this endeavor
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