To the editor:
Both Leslee Bassman and Mickey Friedman have raised legitimate concerns recently regarding viral outbreaks such as measles, influenza, and avian influenza (H5N1) and the specter of a new pandemic. The Southern Berkshire Public Health Collaborative staff, working closely with their member boards of health in South County, monitor communicable diseases daily using a state system and provide follow-up and action as needed. While SBPHC provides a wide range of immunization services for children and is prepared to step up to immunize adults if needed, H5N1 vaccines are not yet available.
State Rep. Leigh Davis has worked with the Tri-Town Health Department (TTHD) and major stakeholders throughout the Commonwealth to create emergency legislation to create a special commission to prepare for an emergence of H5N1. Now is the time to write to Rep. Davis, Gov. Maura Healey, and other legislators in support of this bill (HD.2234).
TTHD and the SBPHC continue to advocate and support active working relationships with various sectors of the South County community to help develop safeguards to protect the residents of South County. This collaboration, along with the full cooperation of our Berkshire community and state legislators, will be key to offset a lack of scientific understanding and action on the federal level.
Charles Kenny, M.D.
Medical Director
Stockbridge
James Wilusz, R.S.
Executive Director of Tri-Town Health Department
Pittsfield
Jayne Smith, R.S.
SBPHC Shared Services Manager
Sheffield
Dianne Romeo, R.N.
Lenox BOH Chair
Chairperson of the SBPHC Governing Board
Lenox
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