Idaho Falls errs on the side of caution, prepares for Ebola
Despite the slim chances of Ebola making its way to Idaho, the city of Idaho Falls is examining a citywide response for the deadly virus as a precaution.
At a meeting Monday night, the council was briefed by Fire Chief Dave Hanneman, Police Chief Mark McBride and Idaho Falls Regional Airport Director Craig Davies.
A solid plan is still far from complete, but the city hopes to have a better idea after a meeting this Friday at IFRA. The health department, hospitals, law enforcement and airport personnel will discuss the procedural response to a potential case in the area.
“To evaluate a quarantine plan, if necessary,” said Hanneman.
One question is “who would respond?” Would it be a EMS response, or would it be better left to a regional Hazmat team? The hospital designated to treat Ebola for our area is in Missoula, Montana, at St. Patrick’s Hospital.It’s one of just four U.S. hospitals equipped to handle Ebola.
“We have the equipment now from a medical standpoint and we also have our hazardous materials equipment,” said Hanneman.
McBride said the role of a police officer would be quite different than an EMS responder, but that his department probably didn’t have sufficient gear to encounter a patient with Ebola.
The city of Idaho Falls could not order a quarantine right now, but an ordinance proposed Monday night would give the mayor the authority to order one. In which case, McBride said his department would be in action.
“Law enforcement may be tasked with guarding the facility or whatever if it’s in their home or if it’s in a certain facility to make sure it doesn’t get spread out in the community,” said McBride.
As other airports throughout the country take precautions, Davis said IFRA is erring on the side of caution and seeking guidance at Friday’s meeting.
“We look for some direction on how to deal with passengers,” said Davis. “What we can and cannot say to passengers and the airlines, what their roles and responsibilities are as well.”
