Joint Statement on Protection of Emergency Providers During a Chemical or Biological Incident
For Immediate Release
November 15, 2001
Contact: Media Relations
Ph: 202-777-2436
media.relations@apha.org
This joint Statement documents agreement among the leaders of the American Public Health Association (APHA), the National Association of State EMS Directors (NASEMSD) and the National Association of EMS Physicians (NAEMS) with regard to the need for protection of front line medical providers during chemical or biological incidents.
APHA, NASEMSD and NAEMSP jointly state:
It is imperative that the emergency health care infrastructure continues to serve the public and not transmit agents of infection during the war against terrorism. Emergency medical technicians, paramedics, public health providers, emergency nurses, primary care physicians, EMS physicians and emergency physicians should receive safe and effective immunizations and/or drug prophylaxis against biological weapons as soon as supplies are available.
In addition, front line emergency medical and public health personnel should be supplied with appropriate protective equipment, such as breathing apparatus and hazardous materials suits, to minimize their exposure to harmful agents during the course of their emergency duties.
APHA, NAEMSP and NASEMSD stress the criticality of these measures to the safety and health of our communities. Attention and support to the protection of front line medical providers should be given high priority in government efforts to enhance community defense against threats of terrorism.
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