CDC will hold session on nuclear detonation preparation

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced it will hold a session on January 16 “to outline how the public can prepare for nuclear war,” reports CBS News.

In a statement on the session, the CDC says, “While a nuclear detonation is unlikely, it would have devastating results and there would be limited time to take critical protection steps. Despite the fear surrounding such an event, planning and preparation can lessen deaths and illness. While federal, state, and local agencies will lead the immediate response efforts, public health will play a key role in responding.”

Although it’s not clear if there are any specific catalysts for the CDC to hold such an event, it does come amid increased tensions between the U.S. and North Korea.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un “used his New Year message to warn the US that he has a ‘nuclear button’ on his desk that is always in reach,” according to Sky News.

President Trump tweeted in response, “Will someone from his depleted and food starved regime please inform him that I too have a Nuclear Button, but it is a much bigger & more powerful one than his, and my Button works!”

The CDC will hold the briefing in Atlanta as part of its monthly informational sessions.

“Upcoming briefings are mostly devoted to more conventional public health concerns, such as childhood vaccinations and hepatitis C,” according to Politico.