Environmental health services and sanitation have been the backbone of public health in the U.S. for many decades. The emergence of many new issues and threats such as Cryptosporidium in drinking water, hantavirus, E. coli O157:H7, West Nile virus, and most recently, domestic terrorism point to a need for a well-prepared environmental health services (EHS) system and work force that can anticipate, recognize, and respond to these types of threats. In recent years, the capabilities of the EHS system at state, tribal, territorial, and local levels have visibly decreased, which has led to systems that are not adequately prepared to address such threats. In the program, EHS experts address the six goals CDC developed in collaboration with its many environmental health partners to revitalize the EHS system.
This videotape of a May 9, 2002 satellite broadcast highlights the issues, challenges, and activities facing the EHS system in the 21st century. The program includes presentations, discussion, and audience participation.
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