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MRC Celebrates 10 Year Anniversary!
Happy New Year! This year marks the 10th anniversary of the creation of the Medical Reserve Corps, which was announced during President George W. Bush's 2002 State of the Union address, and officially launched as a demonstration project in July of 2002. Over these past ten years, we have seen the program grow to over 200,000 volunteers in almost 1,000 units across the country—ready to respond to emergencies and building resiliency in thousands of local communities through prevention, preparedness and public health activities. As you know, MRC units can play a large role in carrying out the National Prevention Strategy, recognizing that good health comes not just from receiving quality medical care but from stopping disease before it starts. MRC units have met that challenge with public health activities ranging from flu vaccination clinics and smoking cessation initiatives to obesity prevention programs through the "Let's Move" campaign and Bodyworks, a program that targets parents and caregivers of adolescents as resources to improve family eating and activity behaviors. We will commemorate and celebrate the MRC's 10th anniversary and our decade of accomplishments throughout the coming year, and we encourage you to get the word out in your communities as well. The anniversary year is a great opportunity to highlight your unit's activities and successes by reaching out to your local media, community leaders, and to prospective partners and volunteers. As part of our awareness plan, we intend to highlight National Health Observances that are tied to the MRC's prevention mission, such as the Great American Smokeout, National Nutrition Month, and National Hurricane Preparedness Week, and we will send you the upcoming observances for the month. You can also find them at this link: http://www.healthfinder.gov. I encourage you to use our new 10th anniversary logo throughout the year-- on your website, email signature lines, and in printed materials. To access the logos, first log in to the MRC Member Resources site (www.medicalreservecorps.gov). Then, select the Logo Request/New Use option. Complete the short form that follows, and then, select and download the logo file(s) directly from the next page. As with the traditional MRC logo, please review the guidelines associated with the use of the MRC logo here. With each public health activity, preparedness exercise, and emergency response, we are all making a difference in the health and safety of this Nation, and I look forward to growing our spirit, dedication, and commitment in 2012 and beyond. Division of the Civilian Volunteer Medical Reserve Corps |
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Year End Reflections
Dear MRC Leaders, Volunteers and Colleagues, The year-end holidays are always a good time to reflect and focus on gratitude and giving. All of you give of yourselves every day, and your efforts at the local, state, regional and national levels make this program a true success. Your efforts are recognized and appreciated…as you can see in the attached letter from Dr. Regina Benjamin, our Surgeon General. I strongly encourage you to share this letter from her with your MRC volunteers. MRC volunteers are involved in an extraordinary number and variety of activities every day to support and promote the health and safety of their communities. This past year, MRC leaders reported over 9,300 activities as part of their unit profiles! The initiatives supported, promoted and hosted by MRC units this year have positively affected countless lives. Through the actions of MRC leaders, volunteers, and partner organizations, public health in this country was strengthened, local vulnerabilities were reduced and communities grew more resilient. I am truly thankful for all that you do! I am also very proud of, and honored to represent, the MRC. I wish you safe and happy holidays, and the best for the New Year. Rob Robert J. Tosatto, RPh, MPH, MBA
Room 18C-14, Parklawn Building |
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Happy Holidays!
Happy Holidays everyone! I thought you would enjoy this CDC remake of "The Twelve Days of Christmas" that was sent out on the MRC list serve, http://www.cdc.gov/family/holiday/12waysSong.htm. Feel free to pass the link along. Liisa Jackson |
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Wendy Diotalevi Earns Award
Hello Everyone~ I wanted to share this Certificate of Appreciation that was awarded to Wendy Diotalevi on November 18, 2011 at the MRC conference in Avon Connecticut I accepted it on her behalf. She has tirelessly worked to promote Emergency Preparedness and Public Health as the MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps Director. Please join me in honoring Wendy for the very valuable work she has done to support our current mission of preparing for disasters through recruiting, training, networking, and planning. Leading the Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps she has helped develop and continues to support a wide range of advanced drills, trainings, developing response strategies, and networking to broaden Public Health support capacity in the community has brought a needed component to our regional disaster preparedness response. She continues to promote the Medical Reserve Corps and Public Health in Weston and in our Region fortifying the current awareness of the need for a multi-agency approach in responding to crisis and disasters. As a Public Health Director and MRC Director her vision has been shown throughout Weston, our region and was recognized at the MRC conference in November with MRC partners from all over the country. She has a greater understanding of the caliber of planning, services and value of the Medical Reserve Corps volunteers that can be offered in a crisis or disaster. That is a great asset to the strategic preparations many communities have been seeking to build. Seeing the further growth and implementation of the mission and provision of the Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps and the Weston Emergency Response Corps, it is a key component to the further development of the work we are all trying to accomplish. Thank you Wendy!
Liisa Jackson |
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Region 4A Shelter Update
Hello Everyone~ As of today, all Region 4A Sheltering/Warming operations to my knowledge have stood down: I want to thank you all for all to amazing work you did across the region to provide service to the people affected by the storm it is so greatly appreciated! I would like to ask you to stay on stand-by for our partners in other regions in the state. We are still receiving requests for medical and non-medical volunteers to staff shelters outside our region (see post, below). If you can help out anytime in the next week please sign up on our Deployment Page even if you can't do a full shift just let me know the times you can help out. Thank you all so much! Liisa Jackson |
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Shelter Requests from Central, Western MA
The Regional Red Cross Shelter at Westfield State University is requesting immediate assistance from MRCs to staff the shelter. The request is for up to five volunteers, some of whom (up to three) they would prefer to have basic first aid training. They would like to fill three eight hour shifts for at least the next 48 hours, including Wednesday night starting at midnight, and then daytime shift starting at 8:00 AM Thursday, and the evening shift beginning at 4:00 PM. We are asking MRC volunteers from areas that were not impacted by the storm to consider deploying to Westfield if they are able to do so. The Westfield Police Department is managing the Westfield shelter and MRC volunteers will be acting under their direction. We also have an outstanding request for one volunteer to go to a shelter at Ware High School. If you are able to find a volunteer to fill one or more shifts in Westfield or Ware please contact Michael.coughlin@state.ma.us and copy esf-8@massmail.state.ma.us. Liisa Jackson |
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Shelter Update
Hello Everyone~ I wanted to update you on the latest shelter/warming operations across the region:
We still need volunteers to be available to help, please register to cover a shift on the Deployment Page If you need anything or have any shelter/warming operations in your community let me know~ Liisa Jackson |
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Shelter Update
Hello Everyone~ I wanted to update you on the latest shelter/warming operations across the region:
We still need volunteers to be available to help, please please register to cover a shift on the Deployment Page If you need anything or have any shelter/warming operations in your community let me know~ Liisa Jackson |
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Shelter Update
Hello Everyone~ I wanted to update you on the latest shelter/warming operations across the region:
We still need volunteers to be available to help, please please register to cover a shift on the Deployment Page If you need anything or have any shelter/warming operations in your community let me know~ Liisa Jackson |
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Shelter Staffing Needed Now
Hello Everyone~ We are starting to get a lot of requests for Shelter Staffing for tonight, if you can help out at all please register to cover a shift on the Deployment Page Thank you in advance for your help! Liisa Jackson |
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Power Outages Across MA
National Grid's Outage Central has a live map of power outages across the state |
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Shelter Operations -- Help Needed
Hello Everyone~ We are starting open warming stations in several 4A communities. If you can help out with staffing the shelters please sign up for any shifts that you are available on the Deployment Page Also if you need any help staffing your shelter in your community please let me know. Whether or not you are availble to volunteer, please download and distribute these documents on dealing with an emergency Liisa Jackson |
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October Surprise: Snowstorm Emergency across New England
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New Deployment Resources
Hello Everyone~ We have some of the best volunteers in the country. Region 4A members have jumped into action after after blizards, hurricanes, and tornados. All of this experience has allowed us to put together a checklist of materials every volunteer should have on hand for when disasters strike. Download the
What to bring when you deploy checklist And thank you again for all of your help! Liisa Jackson |
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Help Needed for Fall Flu Clinics
Hello Everyone~ As you know it is flu season and many of our health departments are looking for help to vaccinate and operate the flu clinics there is a need for Medical and Non-Medical volunteers. Many of the clinics will be run as Emergency Dispensing Sites. Please take this opportunity to partner with other communities in Region 4A and meet other MRC volunteers. To see the list click: http://www.region4a-mrc.org/schedules Thank you in advance for your help~ Liisa Jackson |
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Drive Thru Flu Clinic in Acton on November 5th
Hello Region 4A MRC Volunteers, The Acton Nursing Services will be having a Drive Thru Flu Clinic on Saturday, November 5th from 9:00 am - 12:00 noon at the DPW Garage located at 14 Forest Road. This will be a wonderful opportunity to see how Acton's Drive through EDS works. It is very well run and could serve a good example of something your community may want to try as an alternative to a walk through EDS. If you are available to help out please and mark your calendars. Liisa Jackson |
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Shelter Volunteers Needed
Hello Everyone~ I hope you and your families are all safe. There is a need to staff the Southborough Shelter, that location may move if you can help I will give you the location. There still is s need for the Marlborough Shelter 25 Union Street. If you can help out please sign up on the
deployment web-page Liisa Jackson |
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MEMA Live Twitter Feed
Hi Everyone~ This Twitter feed from Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency Online contains up to the minute updates about emergency events across the state Liisa Jackson |
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MEMA's WebEOC having difficulties
Hi Everyone~ Web-EOC is having difficulties if you need to contact MEMA for any resources for your community please call the numbers:
Worcester county numbers are listed below in the message from MEMA: URGENT MESSAGE FROM MEMA:MEMA's WebEOC is experiencing significant problems. At this time, the Position Log board that facilitates resource requests is NOT working. Any community that has requested assistance through WebEOC during the past 24 hours should immediately telephone their MEMA Regional Office at the numbers listed below to confirm that MEMA received the request. Any new requests must be communicated to MEMA by telephone using the same numbers. If you lose telephone service, requests may be made via MEMA's VHF radio system or by posting your request to WebEOC through the Significant Events board (which is still working). We will let you know as soon as the problem is fixed.
-- Kathleen Conley Norbut, M.Ed., LMHC Liisa Jackson |
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Shelter Operations - Planning and Guidance
Hi Everyone~ I know many of you are preparing to set up shelters in your community if you lose power or have to evacuate people from their homes. Below is a package of sheltering documents that will help you set up and run your shelter efficiently:
If there is other documentation you need please let me know as I may already have it. We have dozens of volunteers signed up on the Region 4A site, so if you need staffing please let me know. If you would like to use the webpage to have your volunteers register for shelter staffing, I can set up a link for your community's shelter if you need me to. Please don't hesitate to call or email me if you need anything at all~ Liisa Jackson |
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Preparing for Hurricane Irene: Seeking Volunteers
Hello Everyone~ As you know Hurricane Irene is headed our way. We want to ask you to release your volunteers so we can put them on standby for shelter operations, they can sign up for shifts by going to our deployment registration page. Due to high winds and the nature of a hurricane, we are asking for people to sign up for 12 hour shifts. My first concern is that you all stay safe~ Thank you in advance for your help! Liisa Jackson Hurricanes can cause prolonged power outages and flooding. There are several things you can do to protect your cold/frozen food to prepare for this possibility. Please clink on the link provided, to view fact sheets for safe food handling in emergencies. USDA's Severe Storms and Hurricanes Guide web page and
PDF document: Severe Storms and Hurricanes Guide |
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WCVB TV 5 highlights MRC tornado assistance
Hi Everyone~ Look at this awesome article about the donations they made to the victims of the tornados! Liisa Jackson |
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Shelter Operations Complete.
Thank you, volunteers! Hello Everyone~ Great news, the Shelters will be closing Friday July 1st! It has been a very long deployment it is with tremendous gratitude that I write to you regarding the enormous shelter operations efforts that you have conducted for the month of June. I know that you dedicated many, many hours and energy beyond the call of duty as volunteers, I am so grateful for all of the time you all gave selflessly to the victims of the tornados, the compassion and caring you showed to these people will never be forgotten. This deployment has been another wonderful opportunity to expand our ability to respond to a disaster, a deployment like this strengthens and builds our units capacity, our volunteers who served in the shelters as managers and staff have gained valuable experience that could never be replicated in a class or an exercise. It has been such a pleasure working with you all; your professionalism and patience have made this operation run so smoothly given the situation. The work you have done to care for the people from the Springfield and West Springfield communities during this difficult time will set a great example for other communities that may have to deal with a long term shelter operation. As always I am honored to work with such an amazing group of volunteers! Thank you so much! Liisa Jackson |
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Springfield Staffing Still Needed
Hello Everyone~ First of all I want to thank you all for your continued support for the Shelter operations! We are in desperate need of coverage over the next few weeks. Our greatest need right now is the 11pm to 7am overnight shifts including the shift overnight tonight, there is an opportunity to sleep if you do an overnight plenty of cots and police officers are on site as well. Anyone can register here Thank you in advance for your willingness to help and continued support! Thank you so much~ |
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Springfield Staffing Still Needed
Hello Everyone~
We are still looking for shelter staffing though the weekend, please sign up on our web-page for shifts that you can cover Shelter Location: Register here
Thank you so much~ |
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ESF8 is opening at Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency
Hello Everyone~ ESF8 is opening at Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency. We have not received requests for assistance for MRC volunteers at this time, but ask that you alert your MRC members that assistance may be requested from communities affected by the tornadoes and severe weather. MRC volunteers can register on the MRC web-page if they are available to help with Shelter Operations, we will contact them if there is a need: http://www.region4a-mrc.org/deployment/schedule Thank you so much |
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American Red Cross Seeking Assistance
Dear MRC Volunteers~ The American Red Cross has requested assistance from the Medical Reserve Corps. The Red Cross is facing significant gaps in staffing for general population shelters in the gulf area, for current operations in response to the tornadoes as well as anticipated operations for the expected flooding. The pool of local Red Cross volunteers has been tapped, but is insufficient to meet the current or projected needs. The Red Cross is currently looking for licensed or certified health and mental health MRC volunteers who may be willing, able and approved to deploy as a Red Cross volunteer to support their general shelter operations. Prior Red Cross health/mental training would be a plus, but they are willing to take individuals without the training (as they will provide just in time training prior to deployment). Note This is not a Federal or State deployment of MRC volunteers. This is a voluntary activation to support our partner organization If you have MRC members that you would approve for deployment with the Red Cross, please tell them to contact the local Red Cross chapter (www.redcross.org) to begin the activation process and to receive just-in-time training as necessary. Note that these MRC volunteers must meet the following Red Cross eligibility criteria as they would deploy as a Red Cross volunteer. Eligibility Criteria for Red Cross Disaster Health Services The individual must: a. Have an active, unencumbered, and unrestricted license or certification (i.e. RN, LPN, LVN, NP, EMT, MD, DO) AND b. Current CPR Eligibility Criteria for Red Cross Disaster Mental Health The individual must: a. Have an active, unencumbered, and unrestricted independent license (license to practice without supervision) and masters degree as a clinical social worker, psychologist, professional counselor, marriage and family therapist, psychiatric nurse, or psychiatrist OR b. Have an active, unencumbered, and unrestricted state license or state certification and masters degree as a school psychologist or school counselor issued by a state board of education OR c. Have an active, unencumbered, and unrestricted state license and a bachelors degree (BSN) as a registered nurse and American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) certification for psychiatric and mental health nursing to include RN-BC or PMHNP-BC or PMHCNS-BC. DMH professionals are expected to work within their areas of competence when serving the American Red Cross. The licensing of mental health professionals is determined by individual states or U.S. territories whose regulations must be followed by the Red Cross. The Red Cross has agreed to accommodate groups of MRC members who wish to deploy together. Any questions about this request should be directed to the local Red Cross chapter, as they are getting instructions from the National Headquarters of the American Red Cross. Thank you for your consideration of this request, and for your willingness to assist our partner in this time of need.) Please Liisa Jackson |
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Region 4A MRC Conference This Saturday
Hello Everyone! The Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps conference is this Saturday, May 14th, 2011. The converence will be hosted by The MA firefighter Academy 1 State Road Stow, MA We are very excited about our Speakers and trainers. See the agenda below! MA Region 4A MRC Conference Agenda DRAFT
We are planning to end the conference with a Competition Challenge then an awards ceremony! You can register for the conference on the web-page: http://www.region4a-mrc.org/schedules We look forward to seeing you there~ Liisa Jackson |
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Region 4A to receive 2011 OCVMRC Mentor Award
Hello Everyone! The Office of the Civilian Volunteer Medical Reserve Corps (OCVMRC) strives to recognize members of the growing MRC network on a regular basis, both formally and informally. It is the MRC volunteers and leaders, as well as the housing and partner organizations, and other key stakeholders, who have helped build and sustain the MRC program as we know it. And for that, they are most worthy of being recognized. The OCVMRC is proud to announce this year's MRC Award Recipients. The awards will be presented during the MRC Awards Luncheon at the 2011 Integrated Medical, Public Health, Preparedness and Response Training Summit in Dallas, TX on Tuesday May 3rd from 11:45am –1:15 pm. Mentor Award – The Mentor Award honors an MRC unit that has successfully collaborated with other members of the MRC network over the past year to share practices, participate in activities, and carry out initiatives that have strengthened individual and collective groups of MRC units. 2011 Recipient: Many submissions were received in each category and this year's winners embody qualities that can be achieved by any and all MRC units. Congratulations to all units, volunteers, or organizations being recognized. Your work makes the MRC network a stronger one and communities across the Nation more resilient.
Office of the Civilian Volunteer Medical Reserve Corps |
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Region 4A to receive 2011 OCVMRC Mentor Award
Hello Everyone! The Office of the Civilian Volunteer Medical Reserve Corps (OCVMRC) strives to recognize members of the growing MRC network on a regular basis, both formally and informally. It is the MRC volunteers and leaders, as well as the housing and partner organizations, and other key stakeholders, who have helped build and sustain the MRC program as we know it. And for that, they are most worthy of being recognized. The OCVMRC is proud to announce this year's MRC Award Recipients. The awards will be presented during the MRC Awards Luncheon at the 2011 Integrated Medical, Public Health, Preparedness and Response Training Summit in Dallas, TX on Tuesday May 3rd from 11:45am –1:15 pm. Mentor Award – The Mentor Award honors an MRC unit that has successfully collaborated with other members of the MRC network over the past year to share practices, participate in activities, and carry out initiatives that have strengthened individual and collective groups of MRC units. 2011 Recipient: Many submissions were received in each category and this year's winners embody qualities that can be achieved by any and all MRC units. Congratulations to all units, volunteers, or organizations being recognized. Your work makes the MRC network a stronger one and communities across the Nation more resilient.
Office of the Civilian Volunteer Medical Reserve Corps |
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Annoucing the Region 4A MRC Conference - May 14, 2011
Hello Everyone! We are pleased to announce the date of the Region 4A MRC conference, we had a wonderful response to our survey and the most popular day was Saturday May 14th at Massachusetts Firefighting Academy State Road Stow, MA 01775 We are very excited about our Speakers and trainers! Michael Gurnick Ashland MRC Chairman and MA Firefighters academy Trainer Key Note Speaker: Dr. James Geiling
Our Luncheon speaker will be Captain Eugene Rothman speaking on the DMAT response to disasters.
We are planning to end the conference with a Competition Challenge. We are encouraging each community MRC to sign up for this as a team of 2-4 for some fun and games! Once we have all of the information together we will send it along to you. You can register now Looking Forward to Seeing You All There! Liisa Jackson |
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Message from the United States Surgeon General
Dear MRC Leaders and Volunteers, As we embark on a new year, many people will resolve to make positive changes in their lives. I encourage you to capitalize on this by promoting and being involved in public health initiatives in 2011. The Medical Reserve Corps is in a key position in communities across the country to directly impact the health of Americans. Your reach and breadth of knowledge, skills, and service is inspiring. I am excited by the possibilities for the MRC! One way the MRC can make a huge impact right now is through First Lady Michelle Obama's Let's Move! campaign. This campaign has an ambitious national goal of solving the challenge of childhood obesity within a generation so that children born today will reach adulthood at a healthy weight. Let's Move! combats the epidemic of childhood obesity by engaging every sector that impact the health of children and providing schools, families and communities with simple tools to help kids be more active, eat better, and live healthier. Medical Reserve Corps volunteers can play a key role in carrying out the objectives of this important campaign in their communities. Let's Move Faith and Communities inspires healthy eating and physical activity. To learn more about how you can further awareness and prompt action in communities across the country, visit: Lets-Move-Toolkit-Faith-Communities.pdf. Let's Move Cities and Towns encourages mayors and elected officials to make a commitment to a long-term, sustainable, and holistic approach to fight childhood obesity, recognizing that every city is different, and every town will require a distinct approach to the issue. Including the MRC in the approach can be part of that commitment. More information can be found at http://www.letsmove.gov/officials-step-1.php. As community level volunteers with a focus on health, you are in an ideal position to directly impact children's health and make a real difference in solving the problem of childhood obesity. Each encounter you have with a parent or caregiver is an opportunity to help them understand the importance of optimal nutrition and physical activity from the earliest moments of life through adulthood. You can, for example, make BMI screening a part of your unit's public health activities, talk to new parents about first foods and breastfeeding, and consider sharing your expertise with other community groups and organizations that support childhood health and wellness. Thank you for the efforts you are already taking to improve the health and safety of your communities. I know that, together, we can do even more to reduce the number of overweight and obese children. Kind regards, |
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Region 4A MRC On Standby
Jan 18-19: Snow, Sleet Expected Hello Everyone~ We are putting our MRC on stand-by, this snow storm has the potential to knock out power, we are asking you if you can help staff shelters if there is a need. If you are available to help please sign up on the MRC deployment web-page. You can sign up for more than one shift. Finally, should severe weather strike, please make it a priority to keep yourself, your household, and your neighbors prepared and safe with their 72 hour kit ready, too. Thank you in advance for your willingness to help~ Liisa Jackson |
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January 12 Blizzard : Stand Down
Hello Everyone~ We can stand down there is no more need for shelter operations staffing at this time. I want to thank you all for your amazing response, I know all of you were affected by the storm as well. I am so honored to be working with such a dedicated group of people, thank you for all that you do for the citizens of Massachusetts and thank you for all that you do to keep the MRC strong with all of you ongoing activites. Have a wonderful day~ Liisa Jackson Thank you Liisa and great job as always! The City of Waltham is very proud to have your assistance for coordinating the MRC during any and all emergencies. Michael Delfino |
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January 12 Blizzard Preparations
Hello Everyone~ We have another storm before us, we are asking you to forward this email to your MRC volunteers to request them to be on stand-by, they can register on the Region 4A Web-page to give us their availability: http://www.region4a-mrc.org/deployment/schedule Thank you in advance for your help~ Liisa Jackson A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for all of southern New England with the exception of the Cape, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket. A Winter Storm Watch is in effect for the Cape and Vineyard from late tonight through Wednesday evening. A storm watch is not currently in effect for Nantucket, however on Nantucket a High Wind Watch has been posted from late tonight through Wednesday evening. Snow will overspread Rhode Island and Connecticut between 10 and midnight, the Boston and Worcester areas between 1 and 3 am, and southern New Hampshire by 4 am Wednesday morning. It will become very heavy within a few hours after starting. By the early morning rush hour, we may be seeing snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour. The potential exists for areas of thunder snow, which could bring snowfall accumulations of 2 to 3 inches per hour. The best chance of thunder snow would be starting towards daybreak on Wednesday, lasting through Wednesday morning. The National Weather Service is predicting a widespread 12-16 inch snowfall across Massachusetts (except 8 to 16 inches in Berkshire County). Northeast winds becoming Northwest at 20-30 mph with gusts to 40 mph inland; 25-35 mph with gusts to 50 mph along the MA coast, but gusts to 60 mph are possible on Cape Cod and Nantucket. The strongest winds are expected to start a few hours before dawn and last through the day. Steps you can take to protect yourself and your family: The "Winter Storm Warning" classification by the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency means: "Take action, the storm is in or entering the area." MEMA recommends that residents take the following steps to protect themselves in the case of an approaching storm:
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December 2010 Snow Storm Update
Hello Everyone~ We had a wonderful response to the call for volunteers over the last 24 hours to help with Shelter operations. If there is a need in any of the Region 4A communities please let me know; we have MRC volunteers on stand-by until Wednesday night. As always I am so grateful for our wonderful MRC volunteers who always step up to the plate to help even if it is the day after Christmas and for the local Health Departments who support the MRC activities locally and statewide. Please make it a priority to keep yourself, your household, and your neighbors prepared and safe with their 72 hour kit ready, too (if not, here is a shopping list). Thank you all so much~ Liisa Jackson |
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Blizzard Deployment Possible
Hello Everyone~ We have been notified by the Massachusetts Emergency Management System that the expected blizzard may cause power outages. There may be a need for MRC volunteers to staff shelters across the state. If you want the MRC Coodinator to notify your volunteers please email or call # 774 278 0059. If you contact your volunteers directly you should include the following directions for them to register. If you are available, please go to the Deployment tab to register for the dates and times that you may be available to help. Thank you in advance for your help and I hope you had a wonderful Holiday~ Liisa Jackson Below is the message from HAAN: The following is an alert message from the Massachusetts Health and Homeland Alert Network: Title: Blizzard Warning Alert Message: MRC units should standby in the event shelters are opened and require staffing support. |
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Thank You from the American Red Cross
Dear Liisa and David, Thank you again for your great support in staffing the shelter in Methuen. It is great to know that when disaster strikes we can count on the MRC to help meet the needs of our neighbors. I know at this time of the year with the holidays growing close it is difficult to find people that are willing to serve others and put aside their own personal plans. As you can see over the last two days disasters can occur at any time without regard to our schedules; this time it was through the holiday season last spring it was over Easter in a couple years ago the floods in Merrimack Valley occurred over a Mother's Day weekend. As we welcome in the New Year led us put a special emphasis on joining forces, establishing training and building a great working relationship.
Sincerely, Dear Region 4A MRC volunteers~ Thank you again for your willingness to help every time we call on you to serve not just your community, but any that are in need. Your selflessness in donating your time an effort is an inspiration this holiday season and all year long. Liisa Jackson |
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Letter from the Surgeon General of the United States
Dear MRC Leaders and Volunteers, As the 18th Surgeon General, it is an honor and privilege to know that I can count on our Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) for support as we build a stronger, healthier, and better prepared nation - one community at a time. As "America's Doctor," I am responsible for the health of 300 million patients. This is a big task, but I am inspired by each of you, who give so generously of yourselves to serve others, knowing you are there to help. Like many of you, I was an MRC volunteer. I was also on the board of our local organization that helped establish our MRC unit in Southwest Alabama. The inspiration I received from my fellow MRC volunteers – men and women like you – is something that continues to give me strength and pride. The willingness of MRC volunteers to give their best efforts to help make our communities safer and healthier reflects a determined, generous spirit that I believe is our nation's richest resource. You continue to provide assistance and depth to our local emergency response systems. All of us - individuals, family members and communities - need to be better prepared. To accomplish this, we must continue to forge partnerships among emergency management, law enforcement, health professionals, and the uniformed services. Everyone needs to be aware of potential health threats, and we need to be trained to meet those threats in an effective, coordinated manner. In addition, prevention is the foundation of our public health system and it is the foundation of my work as Surgeon General. I hope you will use your skills and enthusiasm to help promote our public health initiatives in your community, especially those that address prevention. Some of my prevention priorities include: obesity and overweight, violence (youth, domestic, gender and workplace), mental health, HIV/AIDS, tobacco use, and health disparities. Again, I thank you for your service and commitment. Each of us has a role to play in helping America meet its challenges. I look forward to working with you to help us become a Healthy and Fit Nation. With sincere thanks, Regina M. Benjamin, MD, MBA |
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The Surgeon General comes to Boston
 Rear Admiral Michael Milner; Liisa Jackson, Region 4A Coordinator; and Dr. Regina Benjamin, Surgeon General. |
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Photo Spotlight, September, 2010
 Mike Gurnick, MRC Chair, and Mark Oram, Health Agent, from Ashland at Ashland days. |
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Hurricane Earl - Standing Down
Dear Region 4A MRC volunteers~ We want to thank all of you for your willingness to help due to Hurricane Earl, we had a wonderful response to the call for volunteers. There were a total of 96 people who did make use of the 16 open shelters on and near the Cape as of Saturday morning. Local MRC organizations and the Red Cross were able to manage them without the additional assistance of Region 4A. As of Saturday September 4, 2010 at 7pm we are Standing Down. As always we are so impressed with the Region 4A MRC volunteers and your outstanding contribution that you give to your communities and all of Massachusetts. Thank you all it is truly a privilege to work with you all~ Liisa Jackson |
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FEMA Update
Here is an update from FEMA via NEDRIX for your FYI:
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State of Emergency Declared in Massachusetts
This afternoon, Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick declared a State of Emergency in Massachusetts in anticipation of Hurricane Earl and will be asking President Obama for a federal disaster declaration in order to access federal resources. No additional actions have been announced. Some Preparedness Tips:
Business impacts:
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Hurricane Earl - Possible Deployment
Dear Region 4A MRC volunteers~ As many of you are aware Hurricane Earl is now a Category 3 storm and gradually making its way up the East Coast towards New England. While the path of this storm is still uncertain, it is being projected that is could have a significant impact on Eastern Mass. As a result, the Region 4A MRC is informing you that we may be asking for your help in the next 24 to 48 hours, please monitor your email and the web-page for the latest information. While we can't predict exactly what this storm will do, we can anticipate that volunteers will be needed in Sheltering, Disaster Assessment and all support activities should the storm impact Massachusetts. If you know you will be available this weekend, you may sign up to be put On Standby for a potential deployment. See the Deployemnt Listing Page for more details. Resources from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency: Thank you so much~ Liisa Jackson |
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9/11 Drill Down for Safety Launch
Dear MRC Leaders, Volunteers, and Colleagues, The 9/11 Drill Down for Safety initiative was created last year to improve readiness and resiliency, and lessen the devastating impact of disasters on individuals, their communities, and the Nation. The goal is to encourage individuals to conduct emergency drills at home, work and in their communities. Medical Reserve Corps leaders and volunteers have an opportunity to be at the forefront of this program by participating and promoting involvement in the event. The Safe America Foundation has joined with corporate partners, community leaders, and government agencies to be sure that Americans practice being prepared. In the inaugural event last September, approximately 400,000 people participated and practiced what they would do in an emergency. Today, they are launching their 2010 campaign, and I will participate in the event in New York City, as they share the message of preparedness. I encourage you to begin thinking and planning now about how you and your MRC unit might participate in this activity. We all recognize the importance of being better prepared, in order to be better able to respond and adapt to a hurricane, public health emergency, attack, or other situation that may arise. This initiative can easily weave into our already strong participation in National Preparedness Month in September and the National Day of Service and Remembrance on September 11th. This year, the organizers of Drill Down for Safety also seek to test the collective ability of Americans to simultaneously react using telephone and wireless devices. So, as part of the initiative this year, Safe America is encouraging a national "texting drill." The goal is to have people make a quick 'text' to family members and others who would be important for them to reach in an emergency. It is becoming better understood that 'texting' may become the first form of communications in a disaster – replacing voice communications (which may not be generally available). The Safe America Foundation has a comprehensive plan for the 9/11 Drill Down for Safety initiative, including ad campaigns, educational webinars, partnerships, evaluation/research, participant recognition, and much more. To learn more about the initiative, access materials, and become involved, please visit http://www.safeamericaprepared.org. I look forward to hearing stories of your 9/11 Drill Down for Safety activities, and know that each activity contributes to the positive and far-reaching impact on the resiliency of your communities and the Nation. Warmest Regards, Volunteers Building Strong, Healthy, and Prepared Communities |
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PH Nursing Educational webinars
Hi Everyone, Four (4) different one-hour Public Health Nursing webinar educational sessions sponsored by the New England Alliance for Public Health Workforce Development at BU School of Public Health and the MA Association of Public Health Nurses (MAPHN) have been archived along with the PowerPoint slides and handouts. They are available for download at http://sph.bu.edu/otlt/alliance/maphn MAPHN will offer one (1) nursing contact hour for 30 days following each "live" session.
Please feel free to share this email with your colleagues. Thanks, Glynnis LaRosa, RN, MPH, CPHQ |
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Photo Spotlight, August, 2010
 The Carlisle Board of Health, Health Dept and Medical Reserve Corps sponsored a booth at Carlisle's Old Home Day, providing public health/preparedness information and giving tours of the new MRC Trailer. Several residents joined the MRC. |
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Psychological First Aid Training - Online
PSA Online is now available on the NCTSN Learning Center! PFA online includes a 6-hour interactive course on Psychological First Aid that puts the participant in the role of a provider in a post-disaster scene. This professionally-narrated course is for individuals new to disaster response who want to learn the core goals of PFA, as well as for seasoned practitioners who want a review. It features innovative activities, video demonstrations, and mentor tips from the nation's trauma experts and survivors. PFA Online also offers a Learning Community where participants can share experiences using PFA in the field, receive guidance during times of disaster, and obtain additional resources and training. This project was funded by SAMHSA, NCPTSD, and NACCHO. To Sign Up:
Need Technical Assistance? Email |
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Strategic Roadmap
The Office of the Civilian Volunteer Medical Reserve Corps'
Send your feedback to |
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Extreme Heat
Hi Everyone~ Please find information in the following link from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention on extreme heat. Please note to keep in touch with relatives and friends who may be more prone to the present heat we are experiencing. http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heat_guide.asp Stay cool, Liisa Jackson, Coordinator |
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Fit Testing Swine Flu Respirators
The CDC has published a instructional video for fit testing N95 respirators: |
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Red Cross: Thank You!
Hi Everyone~ Liisa Jackson, Coordinator |
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Presidential Service Awards
Presidential Service Awards AvailableWe are very proud to announce that MA Region 4A MRC is a Presidential Volunteer Service award sponsor, now our volunteers can track their volunteer hours to be eligible to receive this very prestigious award. Read more... on how to sign up for yours today |
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MSAR Updates
H1N1 Volunteer Advisory Updates from MSAR |
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Department of Public Health: Thank You!
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A Flood of Gratitude
Dear Medical Reserve Corps Volunteers~ The MA Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps wants to thank all of our MRC volunteers who assisted in staffing shelters across the state set up to provide shelter to the people who had to evacuate their homes due to severe flooding in Massachusetts. Our volunteers also assisted in Disaster Assessments for FEMA and distributing clean supplies with the Red Cross. Many of you offered your time over and over again. Even if we didn't use you during the deployment we appreciate your willingness to help others. We were heartened by your generosity and incredible commitment to aid your stricken fellow citizens. It is such a pleasure to work with all of you. Thank you so much! Liisa Jackson, Coordinator |
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Red Cross Needs Volunteers
Through Thursday 4/8 Hello Everyone~ The Red Cross is still seeking our assistance. If anyone is available on Tuesday to help pass out these clean up supplies (see request below) please contact me at We are looking for up to six volunteers on: Volunteers should report to the American Red Cross's disaster relief operation headquarters at 165 Flanders, Westboro (Cumberland Farms). Volunteers will be helping with the Red Cross's mobile bulk distribution efforts, passing out clean up supplies to those affected by the floods. Megan Dickman Liisa Jackson |
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Freetown Shelter Closing …
Red Cross Needs Volunteers Monday
Hello Everyone~
Great news! The Freetown shelter will be closing Monday morning. However, the Red Cross is still seeking our assistance.If anyone is available tomorrow to help pass out these clean up supplies (see request below) please contact me at We are looking for up to six volunteers on: Volunteers should report to the American Red Cross's disaster relief operation headquarters at 165 Flanders, Westboro (Cumberland Farms). Volunteers will be helping with the Red Cross's mobile bulk distribution efforts, passing out clean up supplies to those affected by the floods. Megan Dickman Again thank you all for your willingness to help. Liisa Jackson |
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Volunteers Needed
Thursday Night Through Monday
Hello Again Everyone~
We have a request to have 2 volunteers per "8 to 8" (12 hour) shift from now until Monday; we can split the shifts up if needed.
To volunteer, please contact me at Specifics:
Freetown Shelter managers
I know we are coming up on a Holiday weekend, if you are available I know your work would be appreciated. Thank you in advance for your help Liisa Jackson |
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Volunteers On Stand-by
Dear MRC Volunteers~
The Waltham shelter has been closed they don't expect it to re-open. The Lawrence shelter is open today but we expect it to be closed later this afternoon. We would like the MRC volunteers to stay on stand-by in case there is still a need to staff shelters. Liisa Jackson, Coordinator |
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Volunteers Needed at Waltham Shelter
Update: Shelter Has Been Closed
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Seeking Volunteers for Possible Upcoming Shelter Staffing
Dear Region 4A Medical Reserve Corps volunteers~
The MA Region 4A MRC needs MRC volunteers to assist in staffing shelters that may be set up to give a shelter to the people who could have to evacuate their homes due to the flooding in Massachusetts. Please let me know your availability over the next 7 days via We are so grateful for your assistance, thank you in advance for your help.
Liisa Jackson, Coordinator |
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Disaster Assistance following flooding in Massachusetts
Dear MRC volunteers~
Thank you so much for your willingness to help with the Disaster Assessment partnership with the Red Cross. They have signed up all of the volunteers needed to do the assessments, so we can stand down.
Liisa Jackson, Coordinator |
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After a Flood…
Flood dangers do not end when the water begins to recede Personal Safety
Stagnant water and moisture promotes mold growth!
Avoid mold growth by following these simple steps:
What else can I do?
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Disaster Response in Haiti
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H1N1 Information
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Photo Spotlight, January, 2010
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Disaster Response in Haiti
"The Department of Homeland Security continues to extend sympathy for our Haitian neighbors and support the worldwide relief effort underway in every way we can."
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CDC Updates
Dear Clinician Outreach and Communication Activity (COCA) Partner,
The CDC is committed to providing information to its partners, so that you can stay informed and communicate accurate information to your constituents. Please remember to send any questions or comments to coca@cdc.gov. We want to ensure that these updates are timely and helpful. To assist in your efforts, please see the following materials and resources: H1N1 Influenza Updates
Haiti Earthquake 2010 Updates
On behalf of the Clinician Outreach and Communication Activity (COCA) |
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Haiti Information
Greetings all, I hope you are doing well and having a good morning. Last night, I attended the Haitian Family and Friend Community Event held at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in South End in solidarity with Haitian friends and families from across our communities. Attached—A list of resources from Thomas Menino's office they presented. They also provided a Creole version of the notice and I would be happy to share a paper version with anyone who is interested. Also at this link are organizations that CNN has compiled for those who would like to contribute funds. http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2007/impact/ If you are interested in volunteering at the local level: Through the State of MA there is the "Hands On" organization who is taking volunteer requests/ inquires as we speak. You can email Tom Taylor at Volunteer Services at info@hodr.org to add your name to the volunteer list. For more information you can also visit their website at http://hodr.org/. You can also call them at 781 570 9412. Lastly, for those still looking for family members in Haiti, there is a website through the Red Cross that helps in the process of identifying family members across the country : http://www.icrc.org/familylinks
Peace and Solidarity, |
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National Influenza Vaccination Week
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Hey All MRC Unit Leaders, Happy New Year!! The MRC is right about to reach 200, 000 volunteers! We are SO close - if you have new volunteers or have not updated your profiles TODAY!!!! to include all of your new folks that have joined your forces during this recent flu season, PLEASE do so NOW!!!! A reminder that there are also a bunch of new items on the profiles to be answered to be complete. Another great reason to visit and update them. AND I will be scheduling Technical Assessment(TA) calls with all of you starting immediately. If you are a new unit in 2009, and "older" than 6 months in business, you will go first, so stand by!! TA time is a terrific opportunity to share all your activities, plans for the new year, and ask questions or bring up new and exciting ideas that could improve the MRC program as a whole. The Capacity Building Award, through the MRC Cooperative Agreement with NACCHO, announcements have all gone out. If you have not received notification, please be sure that you were the documented person to receive notification and that your email address was correct on your application. If you still are not sure, please contact me, and I will verify and be sure you recieve notification. If you were denied, do not hesitate to ask for clarification with NACCHO, and if you feel the issue is correct, work with me to resolve it. Finally the US DHHS Sebelius, has taken on smoking cessation and obesity/physical inactiveness as her target improvement areas. I encourage everyone to stop smoking and move around! AND on that note, if your units are engaged in any activities that include these items, please document them on you profiles and make me aware. Also, you can always sign your unit up for the President's Fitness Challenge to document your member's physical activities, earn points and fun awards! This is National Influenza Awareness Week! Please record all your activities on your MRC unit profiles! And for a bit more recognition, post this week's activities on: www.Flu.gov/getvaccinated Jennifer Frenette Regional Coordinator |
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Dear MRC Leaders: In preparation for National Influenza Vaccination Week (January 10-16, 2010), the Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the White House Office of Public Engagement will hold an informational conference call with HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius on Thursday, January 7, 2010 at 11:00am EST. This call will offer organizations the latest updates on the H1N1 virus and a first-hand preview of plans for National Influenza Vaccination Week. Please find the call-in information below. Title: H1N1 Call *provide in lieu of passcode* Attached are a letter from Secretary Sebelius and a one-pager about National Influenza Vaccination Week. We encourage organizations to plan outreach activities, vaccination clinics, or other events during this week to communicate that the H1N1 vaccine is safe, effective, and the best defense against the flu and we ask that you share your plans with us. Please also consider forwarding the following message to your membership lists with tips on how to prevent loved ones from getting the flu. While flu illness has declined in many areas, we are only at the beginning of the traditional flu season, which lasts until May. The H1N1 virus is unpredictable and we may see additional waves of illness. With your help, we now have an opportunity to get ahead of another potential surge in H1N1 and to protect millions of Americans. Participation in this outreach effort is voluntary. To learn more about National Influenza Vaccination Week and how you can get more involved, please visit www.FLU.gov/getvaccinated. Thank you. PDF version of the National Influenza Vaccination Week Schedule -- "Tell us what you have planned!" Dear MRC Volunteers and Partners: You may have noticed the spread of the H1N1 flu decreasing lately. What many don't know is that flu season typically lasts through May, and that past pandemics have occurred in waves. In other words, it's possible that we will see another increase in H1N1 and/or seasonal flu in the months ahead. That's why the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has designated January 10-16 as National Influenza Vaccination Week. Below are some useful tips provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for you to share with your family and friends as you begin the New Year. Add the Vaccine to Your New Year's Resolutions List – Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu. To find the H1N1 and seasonal flu vaccine clinics nearest you, visit FLU.gov and type in your zip code. The Department of Health and Human Services recently teamed up with Google Maps to create this handy flu vaccine locator. Go ahead, try it out! NOTE: Please call ahead to the desired clinic location to confirm availability. Contact information is listed on the FLU.gov vaccine locator. Be a Germ Stopper – Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, wash your hands often, and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way. Also, stay home if you are sick and avoid close contact with people who are sick. For additional information, see how to prevent and treat the flu. Check the Facts and Stay Informed – Visit FLU.gov regularly for the latest information. Heard a rumor? Visit Myths & Facts to run a fact check. If you've been vaccinated already, please share this email with friends and family and let them know why the H1N1 vaccine is safe. The 2009 H1N1 flu vaccine is made the same way as the seasonal flu vaccine. Millions of people have safely received the H1N1 vaccine, including the President, First Lady and their children. Interested in doing more? Consider hosting an outreach activity or vaccination clinic during National Influenza Vaccination Week (January 10-16) and share your plans with us. Or post a flyer at your work, school and local community centers. To learn more about National Influenza Vaccination Week, please visit www.FLU.gov/getvaccinated. Questions? Visit FLU.gov or call the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) hotline 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636), offering services in English and Spanish, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Wishing you a happy and healthy new year.
Kathleen Sebelius PDF version of the Letter from Kathleen Sebelius, Secretary of Health And Human Services (below) |
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| Your Team |
Are you thinking of becoming a Volunteer? We are looking for
individuals who are interested in joining the Medical Reserve Corps
(MRC) to support their town, region, state, or even beyond. The
MRC is made up of volunteers who assist in preparing for and responding
to public health emergencies. The MRC may also be called upon to help
during the year with routine events in the community (e.g. Annual Flu
Clinic, Health Fair, or Public Health Outreach). Local Corps are
formed in conjuction with Police, Fire, and the Board of Health in each
town. United States citizenship is not required to be part of the MRC,
and any community member can assist with administrative and other
essential support functions, even without medical training.
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| Volunteer Benefits |
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Benefits of volunteering with the Medical Reserve Corps:
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2011 Annual Report
Sep-Nov 2011 MDPH Report- Jun-Aug 2011 MDPH Report
- Mar 2011 Progress Report
- Jan 2011 Progress Report
- Dec 2010 Progress Report
- Nov 2010 Progress Report
- Oct 2010 Progress Report
- Sept 2010 Progress Report
- Aug 2010 Progress Report
- July 2010 Progress Report
- Jun 2010 Progress Report
- 2010 Annual Report
- Prior reports
MA Responds is the Massachusetts Department of Public Health's online registration system for health volunteers.
MA Responds is part of a nationwide effort to quickly identify, verify, and mobilize volunteers for effective response.
More information in this brochure
A Quicktime movie for download and playback:
Applying ICS to an EDS Clinic
(63 MB file; suggest right-click and Save Target As or Download Linked File)
The Medical Reserve Corps is sponsored by the Office of the U.S. Surgeon General. The United States is divided into 10 National MRC regions, each of which is divided further into state and local level MRC units. The mission of the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) ...read more
In 2003 the Commonwealth of Massachusetts created regions throughout the state under the newly established Center for Emergency Preparedness. Emergency Preparedness Region 4A is part of that system.
Is your family prepared for an emergency? Click here to obtain instructions on how to make a "72 hour kit". Everything you need to face three days on your own.