WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services has awarded $2,480,391 to the Maine Department of Human Services for a bioterrorism hospital preparedness program.

“In a post-9-11 world, we are more aware of the numerous threats to our nation’s safety. It is important that states and localities are prepared for biological or chemical attacks,” Sens. Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins said in a joint statement announcing the award. “These funds will allow the Maine Department of Human Services to develop emergency plans that will enable hospitals to respond to bioterrorism.”

Before receiving funds, states are required to conduct needs assessments; meet critical benchmarks; and address priority issues. States must also develop a plan for the hospitals in the state to respond to a potential epidemic involving at least 500 patients. Among other issues that must be addressed are: medications and vaccines for stockpile receipt and distribution; personal protection for heath care workers and patients, quarantine, and decontamination; communications; biological disaster drills; personnel; training; and patient transfer.