Public Health Emergency Response

Who We Are

The Bergen County Department of Health Services works closely with hospitals, law enforcement, and other government agencies on advanced planning, trainings, exercises, and general emergency preparedness. 
After the events of September 11, 2001, it became clear that effective response to both natural and man-made threats would require advanced planning among many organizations.

What is a Public Health Emergency?

A public health emergency is anything that poses an urgent threat to the public’s health. This could be in the form of a natural occurrence such as West Nile Virus or pandemic flu. It could also occur as a result of extreme weather emergencies such as hurricanes, floods, power outages, or heat emergencies. 
An accidental or intentional man-made occurrence, such as an act of bioterrorism, would also result in a public health emergency.

What to Do

In the event of a public health emergency, public health officials will provide instructions on how you can protect yourself. This may include information on sheltering in place, hand washing, clinic operations, personal protective equipment, or how to receive preventive medications. 

These instructions will be provided through:

Bergen County Health website
Bergen County Emergency website
Local boards of heath
Local municipal communication systems
Newspapers
Radio
Telephone information lines at 201-225-7000
Television

Do Your Part

Public health emergency preparedness efforts are ongoing and continue to develop and strengthen among partners. It is important that member of the public also do their part. 
Resources and information are available for you and your family so that you can be prepared.

Updates

Sign up to receive updates about health topics via email. Complete the NJLINCS HAN Registration Form and return to:
LINCS Coordinator
One Bergen County Plaza, 4th Floor
Hackensack, NJ 07601-7076 

Resources
Bergen County Medical Reserve Corps
Preparedness for Home & Family in Bergen County
Public Health Preparedness - Information for You and Your Family
Ready Together New Jersey A Public Health Guide to Emergency Planning



Contact Us

Brian Harris, MS

Planning Lead / Coordinator Health Services

Phone: 201-634-2649

bharris@co.bergen.nj.us


 Bergen County Department of Health Services

One Bergen County Plaza  • 4th Floor • Hackensack, NJ 07601-7076

Phone: 201-634-2600 • Fax: 201-336-6086

Health & Safety Hotline: 201-225-7000

healthdept@co.bergen.nj.us