August 15, 2016 Message to Department of Health Staff

Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Aug 15, 2016 - Our Louisiana communities prove time and time again that they are strong and courageous. You are no different. Many of you all have suffered losses. Our thoughts are with you. Many of you have been able to respond to the needs of others and continue to do a fantastic job. Thank you for your great work and dedication.

Today state offices are closed in the following parishes: Acadia, Ascension, Assumption, Beauregard, Cameron, Calcasieu, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Evangeline, Iberia, Iberville, Jefferson Davis, Lafayette, Livingston, Pointe Coupee, St. Charles, St. Helena, St. James, St. Landry, St. Martin, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Vernon, Vermilion, Washington, West Baton Rouge and West Feliciana.

Employees in areas impacted by the flooding are encouraged to remain safe and to stay off of the roadways.

We recognize that many employees and/or their loved ones have suffered flooding of their homes or residences and others might still be in danger. We want everyone to take the necessary steps to be safe.

To best understand the individual situation of each employee, we have established an employee hotline. Please call the hotline and let us know if you are unable to return to work – or assume your emergency response duties – as soon as possible.

Employee Hotline (Please leave a message if you get a recording)

225-354-3543

Employee Assistance

Employees who are impacted by flooding can register at www.DisasterAssistance.gov for federal assistance.

Warmly,

Rebekah E. Gee, MD, MPH

Secretary