Biological or Chemical Events and Disaster Information
The use of biological or chemical weapons would have a devastating effect on any community. The role of this web site is to ensure that up-to-date and helpful information is posted to help in the event of a Bio terrorism or Disaster event.
In the event of a health-related incident that might affect many people, local health authorities will provide information and instructions to the public through local television, radio stations, newspapers, and the www.mgh.org web site.How to Prepare Yourself and Your Family for a Disaster
Biological Concerns
Pandemic Influenza
A pandemic is a worldwide outbreak of a disease, in this case a new influenza virus, that causes serious illness and spreads easily from person to person. Pandemics can cause high levels of illness, death, disruption of normal life and economic loss.
- Pandemic Flu Resource Guide - Michigan Department of Community Health
- State of Michigan Pandemic Influenza Web site http://www.michigan.gov/mdch/0,1607,7-132-2940_2955_22779_40567-138344---,00.html
- U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Information http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pandemic/
- Information on use of Masks and Respirators by general public during a Pandemic http://www.cdc.gov/features/masksRespirators/
Avian Influenza
A type of influenza usually seen in birds which is now causing illness in humans in Asia.
- Center for Disease Control (CDC) Information http://www.cdc.gov/flu/avian/index.htm
- State of Michigan Information http://www.michigan.gov/mdch/0,1607,7-132-2940_2955_22779_40564-138285---,00.html

- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Smallpox
- Facts about Botulism - CDC
- Facts about Anthrax - CDC
- Facts about Tularemia - CDC
Sheltering in place
Some kinds of accidents or attacks may make going outdoors dangerous. Leaving the area might take too long or put you in harm’s way. In such a case it may be safer for you to stay indoors than to go outside.“Shelter in place” means to make a shelter out of the place you are in. It is a way for you to make the building as safe as possible to protect yourself until help arrives. You should not try to shelter in a vehicle unless you have no other choice. Vehicles are not airtight enough to give you adequate protection from chemicals.
Every emergency is different and during any emergency people may have to evacuate or to shelter in place depending on where they live.
- Chemical Event - Sheltering in Place
- American Red Cross Fact Sheet - Sheltering in Place
- More Information on Sheltering in Place
Radiation Emergencies
Frequently Asked Questions about a Radiation EmergencyProvides updated FAQ's.
http://www.bt.cdc.gov/radiation/emergencyfaq.asp
Sheltering in Place during a Radiation Emergency
This fact sheet contains information to help protect yourself and your
family and to help you prepare a safe and well-stocked shelter.
http://www.bt.cdc.gov/radiation/shelter.asp