In planning for and responding to public health threats from both natural and manmade disasters,  areas the Public Health Emergency Preparedness Division are involved with are:

Galveston County Medical Reserve Corps.
We are actively seeking volunteers,  both medical and non-medical in the event of a natural or man-made disaster here in Galveston County. Learn more about the newly formed Galveston County Medical Reserve Corps and the Core Competencies for MRC Members.
Download an application if you would like to be a member.

Epidemiological Surveillance
The Epidemiology staff continually assess the general health of the community through various surveillance methods. By tracking certain diseases and syndromes (groups of symptoms) within the community, they can quickly provide information needed for public health decision-making. 

Public Information Office
It is the policy of the Galveston County Health District to keep the public informed concerning public health issues. Information is regularly distributed to the media, health professionals, and the public through news releases and various other communications tools.  During an emergency, whether it be a bioterrorism event, or a natural disaster, the Public Information Office has developed a communication plan that will provide consistent, valuable information and updates to the citizens of Galveston County.

Coordination of Planning
The PHP Division works closely with local hospitals, schools, emergency management, law enforcement and other government and social service agencies to coordinate public health preparedness and response activities. Some examples of coordination of planning include:

• In December 2006, the Health District hosted a "Pandemic Influenza Training" for staff and community partners.
   
• In June 2006, co-hosted  “Calming the Waters” , a conference to evaluate the role of mental health and pastoral services in responding to disasters in Galveston County.  Conference activities included panel discussions, guest speakers, and a tabletop exercise.  
   

• The “Diseases and Disasters: Are We Ready?” conference in September of 2004 was hosted by the Health District. Approximately 140 public health, healthcare, Independent School Districts (ISD) representatives, law enforcement, emergency managers and others attended the conference to learn and share information about public health preparedness in Galveston County.

• Conducting a tabletop exercise with local response partners also in September of 2004.

• Hosting and participating in the Galveston County Emergency Response Collaborative.
• Collaborating in planning with the Texas Department of State Health Services and other health departments in southeast Texas.
• Educating the general public through presentations about the PHP program and what individuals can do to be better prepared for emergencies and prevent the spread of disease.
• Working with communities to develop plans for receiving, staging, distributing and dispensing the Strategic National Stockpile.