FOR RELEASE: April 12, 2002
CONTACT: Dick Gunn
405/271-5601

Media Advisory

Final Notice: Sooner Spring Bioterrorism Drill Slated Today and Tomorrow

What: A series of bioterrorism exercises are scheduled around the state to improve the public's preparedness in the event of a bioterrorism threat.

When: Beginning today (Friday) at some sites and continuing all day Saturday.

Where: Oklahoma City will host some activities, but most events will occur in the communities of Lawton, McAlester and Tulsa.

Opportunities: Call the Oklahoma State Department of Health's Office of Communications, 405/271-5601 for agendas and timelines for the community exercises. In Oklahoma City today, photo opportunity and some Q&A at 11:45 a.m. in the Governor's Large Conference Room, State Capitol, during noon break of governor's tabletop exercise. On Saturday, the Oklahoma State Department of Health will host a 1 p.m. news briefing by State Health Commissioner Dr. Leslie Beitsch, Room 307, 1000 NE 10th Street. Also on Saturday, the Oklahoma City Veterans Administration Medical Center will host a smallpox assessment exercise in coordination with representatives from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 7th floor Recovery Room, Isolation Unit, 3 p.m to 4 p.m. Video equipment WILL BE allowed.

More Information: The Office of Communications at the Oklahoma State Department of Health will be open on Saturday, April 13, for assistance. Call 405/271-5601.

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