operation and maintenance of MSD systems. The MDR’s duties should include:
Conducting visual inspections of MSD components as part of the routine habitability and sanitation inspection program or, more frequently, at the discretion of the commanding officer. The MDR’s routine inspection responsibilities should be limited to spaces where there is an interface between the MSD components and food service, living and berthing, and medical spaces.
Indoctrination of personnel associated with the operation, maintenance, and repair of MSD systems concerning the potential health hazards associated with human wastes, proper personnel hygiene, and the correct procedures for cleaning and disinfecting contaminated spaces.
Providing on-site advice, when requested, in the correct procedures for personal protection and disinfection of spaces in the event of major spills or leaks. The MDR must be present for cleanups and disinfection of food service, living, and medical spaces.
WASTE DISPOSAL IN THE FIELD
The disposal of sewage in the field is accomplished by various special adaptations such as cat holes (for individual one-time use), pit and straddle trenches, deep pit latrines, and urine soakage pits. Specific information on these and other waste disposal systems for field use are contained in the Departments of the Army and the Air Force publication, Field Hygiene and Sanitation, FM 21-10/AFM 161-10.
SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASE PROGRAM
An effective sexually transmitted disease (STD) program is a command responsibility. The Medical Department is concerned with the medical aspects of STD consistent with the policy outlined in SECNAVINST 6222.1 series.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Staff Medical Officer. Staff medical officers at major fleet and shore commands will monitor and coordinate STD program efforts. Medical Department Representative. Officers and petty officers of the Navy Medical Department assigned the function of STD management will advise their commands on STD programs; assist when requested in basic STD education programs; administer the STD interview and contact tracing program; cooperate with other military and civilian health authorities in the contact tracing program; collect data on occurrence; report as required by NAVMEDCOMINST 6300.2 series and as legally required by civil authorities; and maintain liaison with the local Armed Forces Disciplinary Control Board and the local medical chain of command as appropriate.
Clinical Care Personnel. MDRs assigned the responsibility of diagnosing or treating STD, in addition to any of the duties listed above, will use current recommended regimens and methods of diagnosing and treating STD; provide prophylaxis or epidemiological treatment when appropriate; cooperate with the STD program manager; assist in the STD education program; and ensure that patients who have contracted STD are provided with special education aimed at preventing future infections.
EFFECTIVE STD PROGRAMS
Elements of an effective STD program include education, appropriate prophylaxis, current, prompt diagnosis and treatment, complete reporting, contact tracing with epidemiologic treatment, and the evaluation of these measures to determine their effectiveness.
The diagnosis and treatment of STD is discussed in Treatment and Management of Venereal Disease, NAVMED P-5052-11A, United States Public Health Service Publications (MMWR), and applicable CINC/CGFMF instructions.
Education
Patient education is a primary tool in controlling the spread of STD. As you have heard many times, the best method of combating and containing disease is to prevent it.
The General Military Training Program (OPNAVINST 1500.22 series) is designed to provide all hands with a basic knowledge concerning STD and its prevention and containment. Persons at high risk of contracting STD, especially those who have previously had one of these diseases, require more intensive education. Local