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Biological & Health Emergencies


Biological & Health Emergencies Terminology:  


Infectious agent : Organisms (e.g., bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi) that can cause disease or other poor health outcomes as a result of multiplying or undergoing development in a susceptible host.

Infectious Disease: Disease (Sickness, illness, or loss of health) caused by an infectious agent.

Outbreak : A higher number of cases of an infectious agent than expected in an area within a certain time period.

Epidemic: The occurrence of more cases of disease than expected in a given area or among a specific group of people over a particular period of time.

Pandemic: An epidemic occurring over a very wide area (several countries or continents) and usually affecting a large proportion of the population.

Endemic: The constant presence and/or usual prevalence of a disease or infectious agent in a population within a geographic area

These definitions are brought to you by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). 


Biological Resources by Event:

INFLUENZA (FLU) :

Description: Influenza (Flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. These viruses can infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs, leading to symptoms that range from mild to severe.

Influenza is characterized by fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can lead to pneumonia and can be particularly dangerous for young children, elderly adults, and those with certain chronic health conditions.

Influenza spreads easily from person to person through droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze, or talk. It can also spread by touching surfaces or objects contaminated with flu viruses and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.

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 COVID- 19

Description: COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, first identified in late 2019. It spreads mainly through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, or talking.

Symptoms can range from mild, such as fever and cough, to severe, including difficulty breathing and pneumonia. High-risk groups include older adults and those with underlying health conditions.

Preventive measures like vaccination, mask-wearing, and hand hygiene are crucial. For the latest information, visit the CDC’s COVID-19 page.

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 RSV

Description: Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that infects the respiratory tract. It spreads through respiratory droplets from coughs or sneezes and can also be transmitted by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus.

RSV often causes mild, cold-like symptoms, but it can lead to severe respiratory illnesses, particularly in young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.

Preventive measures include practicing good hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and cleaning frequently-touched surfaces. For more information, visit the CDC’s RSV page.

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M.Pox

Description: Mpox is a rare viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus, which is related to the smallpox virus. It primarily spreads through direct contact with the skin lesions or bodily fluids of an infected person or animal.

Symptoms include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. Monkeypox can lead to serious health complications, particularly in certain high-risk groups.

Preventive measures include avoiding contact with infected individuals or animals, practicing good hand hygiene, and using personal protective equipment when necessary. For more information, visit the CDC’s monkeypox page.

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  EBOLA:

Description: The Ebola Virus can cause severe bleeding, organ failure, and can lead to death. Humans may spread the virus to other humans through contact with bodily fluids such as blood.

Initial symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain, and chills. Later, a person may experience internal bleeding resulting in vomiting or coughing blood. Treatment is supportive hospital care.

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Health Emergency Resources by Event:

FIRST AID FOR MEDICAL EMERGENCIES

Description: Basic first aid skills are fundamental for managing common injuries and health issues until professional help arrives.

Understanding how to treat cuts, burns, fractures, and choking can make a significant difference in an emergency.

Training in these skills equips you to handle a variety of situations effectively and confidently.

Examples:

  • Medical /illness ( choking, allergic reactions etc)
  • injury (broken limbs etc)
  • insect , reptile, animal bites 

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BLEEDING CONTROL 

Description: Bleeding from any cause can quickly turn into an emergency. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or healthcare provider, knowing how to stop bleeding is essential.

Quick action is key , as excessive bleeding can lead to death within just a few minutes if not controlled.

Learning basic techniques for bleeding control, such as applying pressure, using dressings, and employing tourniquets, can save lives.

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POISON EMERGENCY

Description: Poison preparedness involves understanding how to respond to exposure to harmful substances. According to the National Poison Control Center, a poison is any substance that, when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed, can cause harm to the body.

Being prepared means knowing how to identify potential poisons, having access to emergency contact information, and understanding the appropriate steps to take if poisoning occurs.

This preparation is crucial because quick and effective response can significantly reduce health risks and improve outcomes in poisoning emergencies.

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SEPSIS

Description: Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection, leading to a life-threatening medical emergency. It occurs when an infection triggers a chain reaction throughout the body, potentially resulting in tissue damage, organ failure, and death if not treated promptly.” — CDC, Sepsis

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COLD EMERGENCY

Description:A cold emergency refers to a medical condition caused by prolonged exposure to extremely low temperatures, which can lead to the body losing heat faster than it can produce it. This can result in serious and potentially life-threatening health issues.

Examples of Cold Emergencies:

1. Hypothermia: A severe condition where the body’s core temperature drops below 95°F (35°C). Symptoms include shivering, slurred speech, confusion, drowsiness, and loss of coordination. If untreated, hypothermia can lead to unconsciousness and death. Immediate medical attention is essential.

2. Frostbite: Damage to the skin and underlying tissues caused by freezing temperatures. Commonly affects extremities like fingers, toes, ears, and nose. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and a white or grayish-yellow skin color. Severe frostbite can lead to permanent tissue damage and amputation.

3. Cold-Related Injuries: Includes conditions like chilblains (painful inflammation of small blood vessels in the skin) and trench foot (damage caused by prolonged exposure to cold and wet conditions). These injuries can cause long-term damage if not properly treated.

4. Cold Shock Response: An initial reaction to sudden immersion in cold water, causing rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and potential panic. This response can lead to drowning if the individual cannot regain control.

These conditions require immediate intervention to prevent further harm, such as gradually warming the body, seeking shelter, and obtaining medical care when necessary.

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HEAT EMERGENCY

Description: A heat emergency refers to a serious medical condition resulting from prolonged exposure to high temperatures. It typically occurs when the body is unable to regulate its internal temperature, leading to potentially life-threatening health issues.

Examples of Heat Emergencies:

1. Heat Exhaustion: This condition arises from excessive heat exposure, causing symptoms like heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headache. It is a warning sign that the body is struggling to cope with the heat.

2. Heat Stroke: A severe and potentially fatal heat emergency where the body’s core temperature rises above 104°F (40°C). Symptoms include confusion, loss of consciousness, rapid pulse, and hot, dry skin. Immediate medical attention is critical.

3. Heat Cramps: Painful muscle cramps that occur during or after intense physical activity in hot weather. They result from dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

4. Heat Syncope: Fainting or dizziness due to prolonged standing or sudden changes in position in a hot environment. It can occur when blood flow to the brain is reduced due to overheating.

These conditions require prompt treatment to prevent serious complications, including hydration, cooling the body, and seeking medical assistance when necessary.

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Disclaimer: This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, emergency treatment or formal first-aid training. Don't use this information to diagnose or develop a treatment plan for a health problem or disease without consulting a qualified health care provider. If you're in a life-threatening or emergency medical situation, seek medical assistance immediately

Mental Health Emergency: 


Definition:

A mental health emergency occurs when a person experiences a sudden or severe mental or emotional crisis that poses an immediate risk to themselves or others. This includes situations such as suicidal thoughts, severe panic or anxiety, psychosis, or behaviors that require urgent intervention. (Source: SAMHSA, CDC)

Examples:

  • Suicidal thoughts or attempts
  • Severe panic attacks or anxiety crises
  • Hallucinations, delusions, or psychotic episodes
  • Aggressive or violent behavior due to a mental health crisis

Preparedness & Response Actions:

  • Call 911 if there is immediate danger to life or safety.
  • Call or text 988 for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for 24/7 trained counselor support.
  • Reach out to local crisis services for stabilization and guidance.
  • Develop a safety plan: know crisis contacts, supportive people, and remove immediate hazards if possible.

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Disclaimer: This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, emergency treatment or formal first-aid training. Do not use this information to diagnose or develop a treatment plan for a health problem or disease without consulting a qualified health care provider. If you're in a life-threatening or emergency medical situation, or believe you or someone you know is in a mental health crisis seek medical assistance immediately

General Biological and Health Emergency Resources:


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