Antiviral Stockpile Deployed Quickly in Time of Need

Federal antiviral medication and medical protective supplies from the Strategic National Stockpile were distributed throughout Colorado during the ongoing H1N1 virus outbreak. This is the first time the stockpile was requested and deployed during a declared emergency in Colorado.

The supplies help local public health agencies throughout Colorado ensure that the people who need medication will be able to receive it. The medication primarily is intended for those who are hospitalized or seriously ill.

Swift Transportation Company quickly and successfully worked through the day and night last week to distribute the medication and medical supplies to 13 locations throughout the state. The company is one of many partners that have signed agreements with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s Emergency Preparedness and Response Division to assist in emergencies or other crisis.

The Emergency Preparedness and Response Division always is looking for community partners to provide volunteers, warehouse space or a variety of necessary services. Interested parties should contact Patrick Barnett at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, 303-692-2648, for information on becoming involved with public health emergency preparedness activities in Colorado.