What happens if a epidemic strikes the 4-states

Do you believe there’s a crisis at the southern border? Last month alone nearly 80,000 people entered the United States illegally. Officials have found that many of these immigrants are un-vaccinated and some have very serious, contagious diseases.

Freeman Health System held a training conference Thursday in Joplin about how to handle this problem. The Southwest Healthcare Emergency Preparedness Coalition Conference included members from the surrounding area including Jasper, Newton, Barry, and  McDonald counties.

The group trained and discussed the area’s preparedness and response to medical disaster operations, ensuring everyone has the most recent and life saving knowledge.

Today’s training centered on Ebola, including  a hands-on demonstration on how to safely handle and transport an Ebola patient. They also receive up-to-date information on highly infectious diseases and response.

News Talk KZRG spoke with Skip Harper. He’s the Freeman Environmental Health, Safety and Emergency Management officer. We asked him if our community is prepared for the threat from our immigration problem.  He says the team prepares for all hazards, diseases and emergencies, and that the public’s health is a “huge outreach” and that it all starts with us.

Skip encourages anyone that believes they have been infected to seek medical attention immediately and if you have any questions to contact your physician or hospital. Then, know that our area is prepared for any emergency that may come our way.