CDC:  largest-ever deployment of epidemic intelligence service officers since 9-11

     The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recently announced that  93% of their total number of disease detectives, (136 EIS officers), were deployed at least once to assist state and local public health agencies since September 11, 2001.  Thirty-four detectives were sent to New York City on September 14th.  That was the largest single deployment of EIS officers to one location in fifty-one years.  Many others were assigned to monitor for signs of bioterrorism related illnesses in New , Florida, New Jersey, Washington, D.C. and Connecticut.

     Dr. Jeffrey P. Koplan, CDC Director, stated, "Officers responded quickly when local health departments asked CDC for assistance following the terrorism attack on U.S. soil.  Through much personal sacrifice, these front-line disease detectives worked tirelessly to implement a rapid public health response.  Their efforts saved lives."