Press Release - 9/27/07

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - 09/27/07
Contact Becky Wexler
(301) 652-1558

Washington, D.C. (September 27, 2007)—
Dutchess County Commissioner of Health Michael C. Caldwell, MD, MPH testified yesterday before a Congressional committee examining national preparedness for pandemic influenza. He described the high degree of cooperation in preparing for such a public health emergency among Dutchess County government and community agencies, under the leadership of County Executive William R. Steinhaus. The hearing was convened by the Subcommittee on Emerging Threats, Cybersecurity, and Science and Technology of the House Committee on Homeland Security.

Speaking on behalf of the National Association of County & City Health Officials, Caldwell said, "The combined efforts of local health departments and all our community partners will determine the ultimate impact of an influenza pandemic on the people of the United States." Caldwell described Dutchess County work, similar to that taking place in counties across the nation, to address such challenges as detecting a pandemic early, controlling the spread of disease, and distributing vaccines or medications. "Community understanding and cooperation will be absolutely essential in reducing the toll of a pandemic," Caldwell told the Subcommittee.

NACCHO is the national organization representing the nation's nearly 3,000 local health departments. These agencies work every day on the front lines to protect and promote the health of their communities. NACCHO develops resources and programs and promotes national policies that support effective local public health practice.

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Contacts
Becky Wexler
(301) 652-1558