Public health emergency declared amid LA’s devastating wildfires

The US health department on Friday declared a public health emergency for California in response to devastating wildfires in the Los Angeles area that have so far killed 10 people and destroyed more than 10,000 structures. As of Friday morning, 153,000 residents are under evacuation orders, and an additional 166,800 are under evacuation warnings, according to local reports. Wildfires pose numerous health risks, including exposure to extreme heat, burns, harmful air pollution, and emotional distress. "We will do all we can to assist California officials with responding to the health impacts of the devastating wildfires going on in Los Angeles County," US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra said in a statement. "We are working closely with state and local health authorities, as well as our partners across the federal government, and stand ready to provide public health and medical support." The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), an agency within HHS, is monitoring hospitals and shelters in the LA area and is prepared to deploy responders, medical equipment, and supplies upon the state's request. The declaration provides health care providers and suppliers more flexibility to meet the emergency health needs of people who are covered under Medicare and Medicaid insurance plans. HHS is also making available data on the number of certain Medicare beneficiaries in the area who are most at-risk of needing support amid the emergency. These beneficiaries include residents who rely on electricity-dependent medical equipment and certain health care services, such as dialysis, oxygen tanks, or home health care. The data will help responders plan and meet the needs of at-risk residents. The HHS Disaster Distress Helpline, managed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), is also available to residents experiencing emotional distress. The toll-free, multilingual, crisis support service connects people with trained counselors and is available 24/7. Residents can call or text the line at 1-800-985-5990. On Wednesday, President Biden approved a Major Disaster declaration for California, making additional federal funds and resources available to those impacted by the fires.