HIV 101

Without treatment, HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) can make a person very sick and even cause death. Learning the basics about HIV can keep you healthy and prevent transmission.

The hospital’s incident command was activated recently in response to a mock disaster drill; participation fulfilled a Joint Commission requirement (requires activation of a hospital’s incident command center in response to an external or internal disaster twice a year). This was the scenario - it was reported that an infectious agent was expected in the region and people needed to be vaccinated in response to the threat. The mock drill scenarios are learning experiences that make everyone better prepared in case a real disaster occurs. We learn what works well and what needs to be refined. All hospitals are required to conduct drills and exercises for accreditation and/or other requirements.