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Frisco news conference Text via PANDEMIC FLU INFORMATION FORUM

Frisco press conference:

Dispatch based on CDC criteria. Training for this type of event.

Units on scene, made contact with CareNow. Our medical director on the scene.

Based on consultation with the staff we transported patient to TX Health Resoruces.

Patient reported they had been in apartment and had contact with family members.

After transport paramedics are currently being decontaminated.

Members from Denton County epidemiologists and CDC advising on proper decontamination. Medic unit still at hospital.

Mayor: We are being told the risk is minimal, taking actions to make sure public safety and welfare is protected. Being told by agencies that the risk is minimal but taking all precautions.

? Does patient think he has Ebola?

A: Based on screening criteria from CDC.

? Vomiting?

A: Signs CDC puts out of Ebola. Nausea, vomiting, headache. Patient was not experiencing all just a few.

? …

A: Person was in the apartment and had contact with family members of Dallas patient.

A: At CareNow there are PH officials and epidemiologists. Hopsital staff, doc and several nurses and people in waiting room have been released by dept. of PH. CareNow is now open.

? What were your thoughts?

A: FD has to be prepared for all emergencies. Used to dealing with the unexpected.

? Ebola??

A: There’s always a heightened awareness.

A: Patient is at TX Health Resources in Dallas. Doesn’t know occupation or residence.

We have calls in to CDC. Will get their recommendations on decontamination of ambulance. We deal with infectious diseases. We decontaminate these units all the time. We’re going to wait for they recommendations.

The hospital staff felt he met the preliminary guidelines and that’s why they called.

We are dealing with around 14 people. Staff and other people at clinic.

Our understanding they are *not* part of the 48 under PH surveillance for the Dallas patient. PH officials are interviewing the patients. Treating as low risk event.