Resources for High Consequence Pathogens

Vermont EMS has played an active role in combatting high-consequence pathogens like hMPXV and COVID-19. Find resources to assist you and your agency during the COVID-19 response. Below are some resources to assist you and your agency during the hMPXV and COVID-19 responses.

HUMAN MONKEYPOX VIRUS (HMPXV) & EMS INFORMATION

Scientists at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are tracking multiple cases of the human version of the monkeypox virus (hMPXV) reported in several countries that don’t normally report the virus, including the United States and Canada. This is a rare disease caused by infection with the human monkeypox virus. hMPXV belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus in the family Poxviridae, which also includes smallpox and cowpox viruses. To reduce stigma and discrimination, the Vermont Department of Health will refer to this virus as hMPXV while the World Health Organization works to rename the virus officially.

Vermont now has several confirmed cases of illness from hMPXV. The risk to the general public remains low. However, we anticipate more confirmed cases of hMPXV, and it is likely more cases are going undetected. Learn more about the Health Department's hMPXV response efforts.

EMS Response & Resources for hMPXV

EMS providers should be prepared to respond. Please review the documents below on how to prepare and respond.

Vermont Statewide Emergency Medical Services Protocols - High Consequence Pathogen – hMPXV
EMS Infectious Disease Playbook EMS Infectious Disease Playbook: The information contained in this playbook is intended as a planning resource, and should be incorporated into agency standard operating procedures and reviewed by the EMS medical director. EMS agencies should review the guidelines and their specific circumstances to develop procedures that are ensemble and site appropriate. Appropriate education and training is critical to the success of infection prevention and control protocols.”
The National Emerging Special Pathogens Training and Education Center (NETEC) published an online guide with actionable information for EMS Providers

Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) EMS Response

DEPRIPC19-EMS-Response03292020.mp4

Monoclonal Antibody Administration

Vaccination Clinic Workers - VDH Required Training

We have expanded the scope of practice of currently licensed VT Paramedics, AEMTs and EMTs to include administration of influenza and COVID-19 vaccines. Vaccines can be administered per the Health Department's Vaccination Guidelines. Prior to administering vaccines, each EMS provider must complete the VTEMS vaccination training and be credentialed by the entity approved to operate a vaccine point of distribution.

Vaccination Administration Training Videos

PLEASE NOTE: These videos are provided here for easy access, but you must complete the training in your Vector account to receive a course completion certificate.

Financial Resources for EMS Agencies

Rapid Response Team For COVID-19 Testing

Absenteeism Effect Survey Results

District COVID-19 Survey Results

SIREN Resources

Protocols for COVID-19 Response

Other COVID-19 Resources