The CDC’s Community Assessment for Public Health Emergency Response (CASPER) is a scientific tool to develop health information about the community. It can assist public health professionals in planning for emergencies by studying residents’ responses to questions that measure health needs, attitudes or knowledge about disease.

Participation in the CASPER is voluntary. Survey personnel are DOH-Pinellas employees or volunteers from the Medical Reserve Corps who assist during exercises and emergencies.

DOH-Pinellas staff and volunteers will be clearly identified with ID badges and other DOH gear. The one-page survey has five questions related to flu and other health issues; it is also available in Spanish. Staff will be doing the surveys in teams of two, weather permitting, and will be providing bags with insect repellent and information.

For information about CASPER and how it assists public health in emergency planning and response, go to www.cdc.gov/nceh/hsb/disaster/casper. For information about DOH-Pinellas, go to www.pinellashealth.com or call (727) 824-6900. Follow us on Twitter @HealthyPinellas.

The department works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts. Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.