HHS Deploys Disaster Response Personnel to Guam in Response to Typhoon Mawar

This week, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), deployed disaster response personnel from the National Disaster Medical System (NDMS) to Guam to address the health impacts of Typhoon Mawar.

“We are prepared for this year’s tropical storms and hurricanes,” said Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response Dawn O’Connell. “ASPR has deployed dozens of highly trained response personnel to Guam as part of the combined federal and territory response to Typhoon Mawar – easing the burden on local health systems and saving lives.” 

HHS deployed over 45 NDMS Health and Medical Task Force (HMTF) and Incident Management Team (IMT) personnel to support emergency response efforts. Two HMTF teams are providing medical support to Guam Memorial Hospital in Tamuning and Guam Regional Medical City in Dededo, while IMT members are managing operations, planning, and logistics on the ground.

NDMS and IMT personnel, both part of ASPR, are working with FEMA, ASPR Regional Emergency Coordinators, territorial health authorities, and emergency response officials to determine if any additional federal public health and medical resources may be needed to aid in responding to Typhoon Mawar.

HHS’ Disaster Distress Helpline, sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at 1-800-985-5990, can provide immediate counseling to anyone affected by Typhoon Mawar. Callers can connect with counselors in over 100 languages; a videophone option is available to support the deaf or hard-of-hearing.   

Additional information about HHS response to Typhoon Mawar can be found at https://aspr.hhs.gov.   

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