Countermeasures

The effects of climate change touch communities around the world. In this episode, we look at how climate change is shaping public health today, and how it will continue to test our health systems in the years ahead, and what we can do to be prepared.  We hear how climate change has the potential to, and currently is, intensifying many of the health threats we have explored throughout this se...

Since becoming available over the counter, Naloxone has saved countless lives. In this episode, we explore how expanded access is helping communities confront the opioid crisis, the real-world impact on individuals, and the work that still lies ahead. Experts point to broader availability as a key factor in recent declines in overdose deaths, but the crisis is far from over. Many rural and margina...

From bird flu to COVID-19, the threat of diseases jumping from animals to humans, zoonotic spillover, is a significant challenge to global health. We explore how scientists, health professionals, and communities are working to detect outbreaks before they spread, and what it will take to build a world prepared for the next pandemic. Featuring leading experts in infectious disease and health securi...

Thank you for listening to this season of Countermeasures so far. We will be back on December 3rd with more conversations with leading public health experts.

Biological threats, whether natural, accidental, or deliberate, pose growing challenges for global security. In this episode, experts from the U.S. and Europe discuss how public–private partnerships, global cooperation, and sustained investment can strengthen biodefense and ensure the world is prepared before the next crisis begins. Guests: Christopher Frech , Senior Advisor of Global Government A...

Although Smallpox has been eradicated, Orthopoxviruses, the group of viruses to which it belongs, still present a major health threat in the form of viruses like Mpox.  In this episode, we explore the history of Orthopox viruses, the threat they present today, and the strategies for addressing them. Hear from experts who discuss the role of education, vaccination and the One Health approach i...

Rising temperatures, global travel, and urbanization are reshaping the landscape of infectious disease. Mosquitoes, ticks, and other vectors are carrying pathogens into new regions, and with them, threats like malaria, dengue, and West Nile virus. In this episode, we examine the fight against vector-borne diseases. Guests share insights on prevention tools, vaccine advancements, and the power of c...

In our first two seasons, Countermeasures examined the opioid crisis and its far-reaching impact across communities. Now, we’re widening the lens. Season 3 explores emerging global health threats, from bio threats to the growing impacts of climate change, and the people working to prepare for what’s next. Join leading experts, researchers, and practitioners as they share how we can build resilienc...

When you think of the opioid crisis, older adults are likely not what comes to mind. However, older adults are highly impacted by the crisis. For some, it is a result of the opioid medications prescribed for chronic pain, while others have struggled with chronic substance use disorder for years, even before the crisis began.   In this episode, we explore the often unexpected ways the opioid...

Going to college is an exciting time filled with new experiences. For some students, it might also be their first exposure to opioids, and they may not know the dangers of accidental overdose.  However, college is also a time when many students get involved in creating change and promoting education to protect themselves, other students, and their communities. In this episode, hear how the co...

Stress and other challenges often follow us into the workplace, and for those struggling with opioid dependency, the risks can be even more serious. Opioid overdose can happen on the job, yet many employees aren't aware of the warning signs or how to respond to help save a coworker’s life. In this episode, we explore efforts to create safer, more supportive work environments, including initiatives...

Opioid overdose is a leading cause of accidental death in the United States, and middle and high school students are dying at unacceptable rates. Students across the country are advocating for more education and better access to resources in schools, so they can keep themselves and their peers safe.  In this episode, hear from some of those students, as well as an adolescent health expert, ab...

It takes a village to care for a newborn and navigate early motherhood, but mothers with a history of opioid dependency often lack the community support that can help them thrive. Stigma can be a barrier to getting proper care for themselves and their babies, which may be heightened for babies born with neonatal abstinence syndrome. Even the act of asking nurses at the hospital for advice can seem...

Navigating the criminal justice system can be a difficult experience for anyone, but for people who struggle with opioid use, or those in recovery, these challenges can feel insurmountable. Treatment within jails and prisons is not consistent, and people can be left with more challenges than solutions upon release.  In this episode, we will hear from people doing the work to move the needle a...

Welcome back to Countermeasures. In our upcoming season, we are taking a closer look at some of the communities hit hardest by the opioid crisis. From the corridors of elder care facilities to the bustling halls of high schools, we’ll hear from advocates, public health experts, and people who are using their lived experience to make things better for their communities. Together, we'll come to bett...

Congress plays an important role in addressing the opioid crisis as a public health emergency. In this bonus episode, hear how policymakers are working to identify solutions that help support our communities and turn the tide on the opioid epidemic.  Guests Representative Dave Joyce, Ohio’s 14th District Jessica Hulsey, Founder and CEO, Addiction Policy Forum Resources:  Addiction Policy...

Native American communities have been some of the hardest hit by the opioid crisis. To understand why, the historical, social and economic contexts must be taken into consideration. In this episode, hear from experts and those impacted by the crisis to help uncover this important context. Additionally, hear how communities are rallying together to find solutions that incorporate culture and commun...

First responders have been on the front lines of the opioid epidemic since it first began, and have witnessed how it has progressed and changed. In this episode, hear from first responders from across the country, and learn about some of the innovative programs they’re running to address this crisis, and connect more people with recovery support. Plus, hear what is being done to support responders...

Generations of children have been impacted by the opioid crisis. Children with a parent or guardian who struggles with opioid dependency often feel isolated and don't know where to turn for support. In this episode, we explore Camp Mariposa, a program run by Eluna that provides a safe and fun environment for children and teaches them important life skills.  Guests Brian Maus , Director of Add...

Thank you for listening to Countermeasures, we’re taking a break this week and will be back next Wednesday, November 29 to bring you more on how children and families are impacted by the Opioid Epidemic. To all of our American listeners, we hope you have a great Thanksgiving. We’ll see you next week

For people struggling with opioid dependency, the healthcare system can often be overwhelming and difficult to access, but it doesn’t have to be this way. When first responders, medical practitioners, mental health professionals, and public health experts come together, the healthcare systems can be an avenue for compassionate, evidence-based support. In this episode of Countermeasures, we explore...

Opioid use and dependency can be isolating. Having a robust network of community support is vital, both for those currently struggling and those in recovery. Creating spaces that meet people where they are and provide practical tools and resources without judgment is an important part of addressing this crisis.   In this episode, you will hear from professionals working in this space abo...

Accidental overdose happens everywhere, to people from all walks of life, and continues to grow as a leading cause of death for Americans. But it doesn’t have to.  In this episode, learn about Naloxone, which has the power to reverse an overdose and help save lives. You will hear first-hand accounts from those who have used Naloxone, and insights from experts on the importance of carrying it....

Meet some of the people driving positive change to combat the opioid crisis and reduce opioid overdose.  Hear the stories of resilience and hope from community advocates, first responders, public health experts and those whose lives have been directly touched by the crisis. This is Countermeasures, brought to you by Emergent.