Agenda - 08-16-2005-7c - Laserfiche WebLink

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assess wells with questionable construction and those with sample results indicative of construction problems. Furthermore, once we have a better understanding of the diseases involved in the conununity, we will consult with state toxicologists and environmental specialists to determine if any additional environmental sampling is indicated or warranted. All the homes involved in the study along with sample results will be logged into the GIS system for fiirther regional evaluation and potential ]ong-term tracking and monitoring.. V. Preliminary results, evaluations, and next actions (by end of November) Once the initial data is compiled, it will be analyzed for statistical association to the known diseases in the Mill Creek community. We will also ask for the statistical results to be reviewed by state epidemiologists for confirmation of our analyses. If there appears to be any significant correlations between the studied exposures routes (e.g., well water), we will prepare recommendations and possible options for amelioration of those problems. If further undiagnosed disease incidence is discovered, those affected will be either recommended or referred for treatment. For those residents with well problems only (i.e., no current or past disease), staff will advise them on what options they have to remedy their problems. If there is a finding of widespread groundwater contamination that limits the use of individual wells, staff will work with the County Engineer and other appropriate agencies to explore other water supply options. Further study maybe indicated during this time period and staff will coordinate those efforts. Regardless, we will report all findings and recommendations (except those subject to confidentiality regulations) to the community, the Board of Health and the BOCC for their considerations.. VI. Known and Potential Collaborators • PHRST 4 -Public Health Regional Surveillance Teams are multidisciplinary teams established by the state to support and enhance local public health capacity for disease and disaster responses. Their technical staff members are comprised of a physician, an epidemiologist, and an industrial hygienist. • NC State Laboratory of Public Health • NC Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Public Health, Cancer Prevention and Control Section • NC Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Public Health, Occupational and Enviromnerrtal Epidemiology Section • NC Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Public Health, NC State Center for Health Statistics, Cancer Registry Branch VII. Contacts by Expertise • Rosemary Summers, MPH, DrPH, Orange County Health Director, Incident Commander for the investigation, 919-245-2411 • Judy Butler, RN, Communicable Disease Supervisor, Epi Team Leader 919-245-2425 • Ron Holdway, Environmental Health, 919-245-2360 • Karen I{tright, Epidemiologist, DPPH Cluonic Disease Branch • Ricky Langley, MD, State Occupational and Enviromnental Epidemiology Branch • Heidi Swygard, MD, MPH, PHRST 4 Team Leader • Paul Thames, PE, Orange County Engineer (for questions about public water extension)