Emergency Preparedness

The Louisiana Department of Health is providing updated information about West Nile and Zika virus cases in the state. There have been 10 additional West Nile and two additional Zika cases confirmed.

This week, the Louisiana Department of Health has confirmed three additional cases of Zika virus. This brings the total to 26 cases of travel-associated Zika confirmed in Louisiana. There are no known locally transmitted cases here. Local transmission occurs when an infected mosquito in the area bites another person in the area and transmits the virus. This local transmission is much more likely in the parishes around Lake Pontchartrain than other areas of the state.

For residents who are returning to homes that have been affected by recent flooding, mold removal is a top priority.

Children with special medical needs are especially vulnerable

The Louisiana Department of Health is providing the guidance below for individuals concerned about the need for a tetanus vaccine.

The Louisiana Commission for the Deaf is collaborating with the officers of the Louisiana Association of the Deaf and deaf organizations throughout Louisiana to ensure that people who are deaf and who have been displaced by the floods have communication access to all state and federal services. At the following locations, people may utilize VRS/TRS (video relay service/telecommunication relay service) for communication access; apply for FEMA; file claims with insurance; and apply for Disaster Food Stamps (D-SNAP) and WIC.

Due to the recent flooding, many Louisiana Medicaid recipients are in need of essential medications. Here is some important information for anyone seeking to get a refill of their prescription medications.

Baton Rouge, La. – As families affected by recent floods continue to evacuate their homes, the Louisiana Department of Health offers advice for finding a safe place for babies to sleep.

Medicaid recipients who live in one of the declared disaster parishes caused by the August 2016 flooding, and who need to replace equipment or supplies previously approved by Medicaid, may contact either a Medicaid enrolled or Health Plan contracted durable medical equipment (DME) provider of their choice to obtain a replacement. For Medicaid enrolled providers, the provider must make a request to Molina’s Prior Authorization Unit; however, a new prescription and medical documentation are not required.

The Louisiana Department of Health advises all Louisiana residents to be aware of the dangers flood waters pose and to take all appropriate precautions.