Genesee County Health Department

09/28/2020

You’ve prepared yourself and your families for an emergency, but, have you prepared your pets? Pets are important and in the case of an emergency, they too should be protected and prepared. The CDC suggests that get your pet micro-chipped, plan where your pet will stay, use a buddy system with friends/family/neighbors for pet care, practice evacuating or sheltering in place your pet, and most importantly prepare a disaster kit. Thinks to include in your pet disaster kit are listed below:
• 2-week supply of food for each animal stored in waterproof containers
• 2-week supply of water for each animal
• Non-spill food and water dishes
• Manual can opener
• Feeding instructions for each animal
• 2-week supply of any medications (if applicable)
• Medication instructions (if applicable)
• 1-month supply of flea, tick, and heartworm preventative
• Leash, collar with ID, and harness
• Litter and litterbox (cats)
• Toys
• Appropriate-sized pet carrier with bedding, blanket, or towel
• Pet first aid book and first aid kit

09/28/2020

Check out our graphic below for the facts about COVID-19 (source: CDC).

Avoid spreading rumors and false information, always check your sources.

Still have questions? Visit our website at www.gchd.us/coronavirus to stay up-to-date on what’s happening in Genesee County.

Check out COVID-19 FAQ’s at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html.
#CDC #PreventCOVID19

09/27/2020

It’s #PulmonaryFibrosisAwarenessMonth!

Did you know: pulmonary fibrosis is not just one disease, but a family of over 200 disease that look very much alike?!

Follow the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation for more information via their “30 Facts in 30 Days” campaign!

09/26/2020

Speak to Your Health! Community Survey

On the 2018 Speak to Your Health! Community Survey, 21.4% of Flint respondents said they typically consumed 4 or more servings of “soda pop” on a typical day, compared to only 12.1% of Out-County respondents.

How many servings of do you consume each day? Tell us on the 2020 survey by visiting www.gchd.us/speak!

#SpeaktoYourHealth

The Speak to Your Health!(STYH) Community Surveys are designed by local organizations and university partners to identify, monitor, and understand community health and concerns.

09/26/2020

World Contraception Day takes place on September 26th every year. The day’s mission is to promote awareness of all contraceptive methods available and encourage everyone to make informed choices on their sexual and reproductive health. Call 810-237-4538 or visit www.gchd.us to see your options for contraception.

09/25/2020

Halloween is coming up! Looking for safe ways to celebrate?!
Check out our Halloween 2020 Safety webpage for tips at www.gchd.us/halloween2020!

#Halloween2020 #HalloweenSafety #COVID19

09/24/2020

The first day of fall was #FallPrevention Day!
According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), one-fourth of Americans aged 65+ falls each year. Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall, and every 19 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall. The statistics only get worse. Falls result in more than 3 million injuries treated in emergency departments annually, including 850,000 hospitalizations and more than 29,000 deaths. This year’s theme, Take a Stand to Prevent Falls, seeks to unite professionals, older adults, caregivers, and family members to play a part in raising awareness and preventing falls in the older adult population.

Check out the infographic below for tips on staying safe and preventing falls!

For more information, visit www.ncoa.org

09/23/2020

Youth Sports: Tips to Protect Players from COVID-19

#PreventCOVID19

Before returning to play, kids, coaches, and parents can follow these tips to protect themselves and others from COVID-19. Comments on this video are allowed...

09/22/2020

Health Information

September is National Yoga Awareness Month. Yoga is an ancient practice rooted in Indian philosophy. Yoga includes practicing physical postures, breathing techniques and meditation. Yoga may help reduce stress, reduce back and neck pain, and increase flexibility and balance (helping to prevent falls in older Americans). Learn more about yoga at www.nccih.nih.gov/health.

Looking for information on complementary health approaches and practices? There's lots of knowledge here.

09/22/2020

Welcome to the National Institute on Aging

While you may not be able to stop yourself from getting older, there are steps you can take to be healthier as you age. Eating better, staying active, monitoring your health (physical and emotional), and exercising your brain can help you to grow older more gracefully and independently. Learn more about healthy aging at www.nia.nih.gov.

Find science-based info. on health & aging & Alzheimer's. Get research news & funding opportunities from the National Institute on Aging at NIH.

09/21/2020

CDC SIDS: Safe Sleep

Safe sleep environments are vitally important for keeping babies safe. Learn more about ensuring safe sleep environments in the video below!

#infantsafesleep

CDC SIDS: Safe Sleep Video. CDC experts Sharyn Park Brown, PhD, MPH and Carri Cottengim, MA to learn how to create a safe sleep area for baby and other safe ...

09/21/2020

School Reopening with COVID-19: Promote Healthy Behaviors

Is your child attending in-person classes this fall? Remember to take precautions and promote healthy behaviors to #PreventCOVID19!

Learn what schools can do to protect students, staff, and communities from COVID-19. Note, the term “cloth face coverings” is used to reference masks. Commen...

09/20/2020

#ProstateCancer is a serious disease that affects about 220,000 men each year. But, while it is serious it is also treatable if caught early. Make sure you get in and get checked this September for Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.

09/19/2020

EEE is one of the most dangerous mosquito-borne diseases in the United States, with a 33 percent fatality rate in people who become ill. People can be infected with EEE from one bite of a mosquito carrying the virus. Persons younger than age 15 and over age 50 are at greatest risk of severe disease following infection. More than 25 percent of the nation’s EEE cases last year were diagnosed in Michigan.

See tips below of how to keep your family safe from EEE virus and don't forget to vaccinate your pets!

09/19/2020

Eastern Equine Encephalitis, referred to as EEE, has been confirmed in 22 horses in 10 counties across Michigan. While no human cases have been identified, Michigan has identified twice as many animal cases as last year.

EEE is one of the most dangerous mosquito-borne diseases in the United States, with a 33 percent fatality rate in people who become ill. People can be infected with EEE from one bite of a mosquito carrying the virus. Persons younger than age 15 and over age 50 are at greatest risk of severe disease following infection.

Take the following prevention measures to keep yourself and your family safe:

Use repellent: When outdoors, use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin and/or clothing. The repellent/insecticide permethrin can be used on clothing to protect through several washes.
*Always follow the directions on the package.

Wear protective clothing: Wear long sleeves and pants when weather permits.

Install and repair screens: Have secure, intact screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.

Keep mosquitoes from laying eggs near you: Mosquitoes can lay eggs even in small amounts of standing water. Get rid of mosquito breeding sites by emptying standing water from flower pots, buckets, barrels, and tires. Change the water in pet dishes and replace the water in bird baths weekly. Drill holes in tire swings so water drains out. Empty children's wading pools and store on their side after use.

For more information on EEE, visit www.michigan.gov/EEE

09/19/2020

Don’t miss out on your chance to take the #SpeaktoYourHealth Community Survey! Visit www.gchd.us/speak today!

#SpeaktoYourHealth #STYH

09/18/2020

Genesee County Health Department - We Get It

Dopplebanger. Sascrotch. Postboned. Ever heard of these? We have, and that’s why we get it. When it comes to Family Planning & Sexual Health, we encourage teens & young adults, living in the Genesee County area, to talk to someone who gets it. We offer completely confidential conversations & services at low or no cost. Schedule an appointment today at http://gchd.us/WeGetIt

When it comes to your Sexual and Reproductive Health, talk to someone who gets it. We listen. We help. That’s it.

09/18/2020

National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day (NHAAAD) is observed each year on September 18. In 2008, the AIDS Institute launched this day to bring awareness to the challenging issues the aging population faces with regards to HIV prevention, testing, care and treatment.

Visit https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/library/awareness/nhaaad.html for further resources and information.

Source: CDC

09/18/2020

Key Times to Wear a Mask

Masks are most likely to slow the spread of COVID-19 when they are widely used in public. Wear a mask when you are around people not living in your household, especially when social distancing (staying at least 6 feet apart) is difficult to maintain.

Learn more about the importance of wearing a mask in public settings: https://bit.ly/3ee8iP4

#CDC #PreventCOVID19

Learn when it’s most important to wear a mask. Transcript:https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/videos/keytimes/facemask-clothface.pdf Comments on this ...

09/17/2020

Genesee Health Plan is hosting their 7th Annual Flu Drive-Thru Vaccine event, tomorrow, 9/18, from 3 to 6pm! Flu vaccines will be available for those aged 4 and up! Don't miss out!

09/17/2020

What is WIC Breastfeeding Support

Our Burton WIC Breastfeeding Counselors are moms who have breastfed their babies successfully and can help you do the same!

For support with breastfeeding:
Breastfeeding Counselors - call 810-237-4606 or text 810-287-0758
Online Video Chat Link - https://join.skype.com/invite/wp95W8lrzp29
8am-4:30pm for video support

What is WIC Breastfeeding Support WIC breastfeeding moms and WIC staff discuss how the WIC Breastfeeding Support campaign serves to assist and support breast...

09/17/2020

Healthy Start

In order to better serve the fathers in our community, the Genesee Healthy Start Fatherhood Program is partnering with Involved Dad to increase the amount and quality of services that we can provide to fathers. Fathers want to be the best that they can be, but sometimes they need some help. The Genesee Healthy Start Fatherhood program and Involved Dad work together in the best interest of our fathers so they can be their best for their families.

Learn more about the Healthy Start Fatherhood program at https://gchd.us/services/maternalinfant-services/healthy-start/.

Learn more about Involved Dad at https://www.involveddad.org/.

09/16/2020

Cómo limpiar y desinfectar su casa si alguien tiene COVID-19

Cómo limpiar y desinfectar su casa si alguien tiene COVID-19.

Para obtener información de los CDC en español, visite https://espanol.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

Sigue estos consejos de los CDC al cuidar a alguien que tiene o podría tener COVID-19. Comments on this video are allowed in accordance with our comment poli...

09/16/2020

The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) sponsors a yearly National School Backpack Awareness Day as the school year begins. Join the AOTA and occupational therapy practitioners, educators, and students across the country as we help others “Live Life To Its Fullest” by avoiding the pain and injury that can come from heavy backpacks and bags.

Check out the graphic below for tips on safely carrying a backpack!

09/15/2020

The Genesee County Health Department Immunizations Clinic is hosting a drive-thru flu clinic tomorrow, September 16th, at Burton Fire Department, Station 1!

Flu vaccinations are available for all ages. Call (810) 237 - 4588 to schedule your appointment.


*Masks and temperature screening are required prior to receiving your vaccine

#IVaxtoProtect #preventflu

09/15/2020

Pet vaccinations play an essential role in keeping our pet(s) healthy. Rabies is a common disease that affects both animals and humans. It is important that we keep our families safe by vaccinating our pets against Rabies and other viruses. Giving your pet their regular vaccinations is the key to a long and healthy life. Want to find out where you can vaccinate your pets in Genesee County? See the listing below.

09/15/2020

Around the world, more than 735,000 people are diagnosed with lymphoma every year. With this lesser known type of cancer, patients face a variety of unique challenges and rely on the support of a team of professionals and personal connections throughout their cancer experience.

This World Lymphoma Awareness Day the global lymphoma community is giving “A World of Thanks” to show gratitude to those who help people living with lymphoma.

#WLAD2020

09/14/2020

Legionnaire Rev 7 lower from Gary Cendrowski on Vimeo

Legionnaires is a kind of pneumonia that can lead to complication if not treated. This bacteria is found in bodies of water and can be inhaled via droplets of water containing the bacteria. It is important to make sure that stagnant waters are properly flushed and if you suspect legionella bacteria in your water to have a sample tested. To view the Governor's reopening guidance for reopening buildings after prolonged shutdown or reduced operation click the link below.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/building-water-system.html?deliveryName=USCDC_248-DM22547

For more information regarding Legionnaire's Disease visit:

https://gchd.us/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Legionnaires-Disease-FAQ-FINALv2.pdf

09/14/2020

If you have been in close contact with a person who has COVID-19, a public health worker may call to let you know you’ve been exposed and ask you to stay at home and self-quarantine. Doing so keeps you, your family, and your community safe. Be part of the solution and help slow the spread of COVID-19.

For more information, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/contact-tracing.html

09/13/2020

Nearly 1 in 3 American adults has high cholesterol. Too much cholesterol puts you at risk for heart disease and stroke, two leading causes of death in the United States. High cholesterol has no signs or symptoms, so the only way to know if you have it is to get your cholesterol checked. Talk to your health care team about how you can manage your cholesterol levels and lower your risk.

09/12/2020

Almost 700 people have responded to the Speak to Your Health! Community Survey! Don’t miss your chance to respond at www.gchd.us/speak!

#SpeaktoYourHealth #STYH

09/11/2020

Food safety is very important when cooking at home. Check out these food safety tips from out Environmental Health Division below!

09/11/2020

Treat your pets the same way you would treat other family members to prevent the spread of COVID-19: keep your pets away from sick people and people outside your household.

Read more about pets and COVID-19: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/pets.html

#PreventionCOVID19

09/10/2020

Don’t be scared, be prepared! September is National Preparedness Month. It is important that in the case of an emergency, you and your family are safe and have the necessary supplies deemed essential for survival. Below, the CDC has provided a list of items that all families should keep in their emergency kits.
With the current Pandemic, you should also be mindful to include face masks/coverings, hand-sanitizer as well as disinfecting wipes. Please stay safe and remember to always plan ahead for an emergency!

09/10/2020

Today is #WorldSuicidePreventionDay! This is a time to remember those affected by suicide, raise awareness, and to focus efforts on directing treatment to those who need it most.

#BeThe1To #BeThere