What is one key role of the local health department during a WMD incident?

The key role of the local health department during a WMD incident is to manage public health response and disease control. This includes assessing the health impacts of the incident, coordinating medical responses, and implementing measures to control and prevent the spread of any potential diseases that may arise as a result of the incident.

Local health departments have expertise in identifying potential biological threats and understanding the appropriate public health interventions needed. They provide crucial data regarding the health effects of exposures, offer guidance on treatment protocols for affected individuals, and work to keep the broader community safe through vaccination campaigns, disease surveillance, and public communication.

This responsibility is essential during a WMD incident, as it directly relates to protecting public health and ensuring a coordinated response to any biological or chemical hazards that could threaten the population's well-being.