Posted on: Wednesday, March 27, 2002

Federal grant helps hospital preparedness

Associated Press

U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie announced yesterday that Hawai'i's Department of Health will receive a federal grant to help hospitals respond to a bioterrorism or disease outbreak.

About 20 percent of the $719,356 grant is being made available to the state immediately, with the remaining 80 percent expected to be allocated in May, the Hawai'i Democrat said.

"Last year's anthrax attacks on the Mainland show that no community is immune from bioterrorism," he said. "These weapons of mass destruction are among the deadliest ever developed. Unlike conventional military attacks, the first line of defense against bioterrorism is the health professionals in our community."

The grant provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will enable Hawai'i hospitals to improve their plans and facilities.

The grant was Hawai'i's share of $125 million awarded nationwide.