The Bioterrorism and Public Health Preparedness Program plans for and responds to public health emergencies in the City of Philadelphia. A public health emergency is an emergency that poses a significant threat to human health, such as a natural disaster, an act of terrorism, or a severe disease outbreak.

To prepare for public health emergencies we:

• Establish public health preparedness priorities based on local threats and hazards.
• Develop and tests response plans for a variety of hazards.
• Train staff and volunteers to their emergency response roles.
• Collaborate with local, state, and federal partners.

During a public health emergency we may:

• Coordinate the public health response with partner agencies.
• Provide subject matter expertise and clinical guidance.
• Conduct disease surveillance and epidemiological investigation.
• Implement disease control measures, like isolation and quarantine.
• Dispense emergency medications or administer emergency vaccinations.
• Provide medical screening and triage.
• Communicate with the public about how to stay healthy and safe.