Ebola Preparedness Information

While the information contained in this news article was current and accurate when we posted it, it may not necessarily represent current WVOEMS policy or procedure. If you have any questions, please contact our office at 304-558-3956.

Posted: Monday, October 27, 2014 5:00 PM

Dear EMS Agency Official Representative:

In an effort to keep your agencies informed of Ebola preparedness, I am sending this communication. There is so much information being disseminated. We are attempting to ensure that accurate and timely information is available to EMS agencies. For instance, the Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS) has an Ebola-specific page that has been added to the wvoems.org website. For the most up to date information please refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website (http://www.cdc.gov/vhf/ebola/) or the Bureau for Public Health (BPH) Ebola-specific webpage
(http://www.dhhr.wv.gov/bph/Pages/Ebola.aspx). There is also a good resource located at www.phe.gov/ebola. A recording of a webinar conducted this week will be posted to this site. Look for the EMS provider box located at the top left of the webpage.

OEMS is currently working with partners to develop a statewide Ebola management protocol. Until this protocol is completed, approved and disseminated, please continue to utilize your individual agency infection control policies that are required in West Virginia Legislative Rule 64 CSR 48. The guidance provided by the CDC can be utilized to customize your plans to reflect the unique characteristics and efforts that should be utilized for Ebola.

For additional information, please contact your local health department. Thank you for
your continued service.

Melissa Kinnaird
Interim Director