Genesee County Health Department

07/13/2020

Michigan's new mask rules went into effect today, July 13th.

Executive Order 2020-147 requires individuals to wear a face covering whenever they are in an indoor public space. It also requires the use of face coverings in crowded outdoor spaces. Any business that is open to the public are required to refuse entry or service to people who refuse to wear a face covering, with limited exceptions.

View the full executive order here:https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MIEOG/2020/07/10/file_attachments/1492866/EO%202020-147%20Emerg%20order%20-%20Masks.pdf

Stay up to date about COVID-19 in Genesee County by visiting our website at www.gchd.com/coronavirus/.

#MaskUpForGC

07/13/2020

Discovering My Superpower

Today, our second #BIPOCMentalHealthMonday, we are highlighting NAMI ambassador A.J. Mendez, former World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (WWE) wrestler, current author and advocate for mental health access in the Latinx community. In this video she shares her advice on mental health for Latinx familes and why she believes that her bipolar disorder is a gift.

#mentalhealthmatters #StrengthOverSilence #NAMI #Latinx #BIPOCMentalHealthMonth

Discovering my Superpower -- This piece features NAMI Ambassador A.J. Mendez, author, advocate and former WWE wrestler. Hear her advice to Latino families an...

07/12/2020

Are you a current patient who needs your depo shot but worried about exposure to COVID-19? No worries, we’ll bring it out to you!

Please call the clinic for more information at 810-237-4548 or visit www.gchd.us.

07/11/2020

2020 Census: What is the Census?

Not sure what the Census is? Check out this video to learn more and visit www.my2020census.gov to complete it!

#my2020census #becounted

The Census has been a cornerstone of our democracy since the first national count in 1790. It is mandated by the Constitution and conducted by the U.S. Censu...

07/10/2020

Genesee County Parks – Get away. Right away.

Wondering why we celebrate Parks and Recreation Month?

According to the Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE), access to safe parks is as important as having the presence of parks because it has the power to connect communities. Getting kids outside in parks increases their chances of success in school and makes them more likely to be physically active.

To find a park near you, visit http://geneseecountyparks.org/

07/10/2020

One of the #5KeystoPreventingCOVID19 is having access to a trusted medical home. This is made easier if you have access to reliable healthcare coverage.

For assistance with Healthcare Coverage, check out: Genesee Health Plan and the Connecting Kids to Coverage Program through the Greater Flint Health Coalition!
You can also work with the Health Department for Health Coverage Enrollment Assistance at the Burton Branch by calling (810) 257 – 3039. Our representative can help you get enrolled for coverage by Genesee Health Plan, Medicaid, and the Healthy Michigan Plan.
Learn more about Healthcare Coverage Enrollment Assistance at https://gchd.us/services/programs-and-services/

#COVID19Prevention

07/09/2020

Healthy Start

GCHD provides the Healthy Start program in partnership with Ascension at Home, Hurley Medical Center and GCCARD. Healthy start is a program for pregnant women and their partners, children up to 18 months and their parents. Our aim is to improve pregnancy outcomes, infant mortality rates and overall health of the family as a whole. Please visit our website at https://gchd.us/services/maternalinfant-services/healthy-start/ to learn more about the program.

Sometimes moms just need a little help working through problems, getting information on housing and eating right, making and keeping doctor appointments, infant bonding, advice, getting baby clothes or other items and health care questions. Healthy Start is a group of organizations (Genesee County H...

07/09/2020

If you need condoms and are unable to get them right now due to the public health crisis, please email [email protected] with your name and mailing address. MDHHS will mail condoms for free directly to you. Condoms protect against unintended pregnancy, STIs, and HIV.

#StaySafe

07/09/2020

The best way to know if you are Covid-19 positive is to get tested. Protect yourself and your loved ones. Testing is free and will be held near you, Today!

Visit Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church at 2120 N. Saginaw St. Flint, MI 48505 from 2:00pm -7:00pm today and tomorrow Friday July 10, 2020 from 9:00am - 1:00pm.

07/08/2020

Did you know that sarcoma is considered the “forgotten cancer?”

Sarcoma is a rare cancer accounting for about 1% of all adult cancers, but is prevalent in children accounting for about 20% of all childhood cancers. Due to the lack of awareness, advocacy for better treatment and more research is difficult. The Sarcoma Foundation of America works to raise research funding and awareness with the goal of “Finding a cure in our lifetime.”

Find out more at https://www.curesarcoma.org/
#SarcomaAwarenessMonth #ACureinOurLifetime

07/08/2020

As we prepare for a second wave, we are highlighting #5KeystoPreventingCOVID19. The first key is access to a trusted medical home. It is critically important to have a regular trusted source of medical care for sick and well visits, preventive care, and testing.

Don’t have a medical home or primary care physician? These community resources can help: Hamilton Community Health Network, Genesee Community Health Center, Genesee Health System, and the Genesee Community Health Access Program (CHAP)! Learn more about these programs below!

#COVID19Prevention #GeneseeCounty #FlintStrong

07/07/2020

The #SpeaktoYourHealth Community Survey has been open for just over a month now! Have you taken the survey yet?
Visit www.gchd.us/speak to learn more and access the survey. You’ll receive a $5 e-gift card for participating!

#GeneseeCounty #FlintStrong #STYH

07/07/2020

Did you know that most skin cancers are caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays? The main source of UV rays emits from the sun but can also be transmitted by tanning beds as well as sun lamps.
Individuals with high exposure to UV rays are at greater risk for skin cancer. Tips for limiting UV exposure include:
• Apply sunscreen when outdoors ( Check expiration dates, the higher the SPF, the better the protection, Read the label and make sure follow application directions.
• Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses
• Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps
• Avoid working in the sun
• Seek shade

Healthy skin is the best skin, so protect yours! For more information, visit the American Cancer Society by clicking the link below: https://www.cancer.org/healthy/be-safe-in-sun/uv-protection.html

07/06/2020

Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19)

While the regulations have relaxed and life appears to be returning to a new normal, we must continue to take precautions. COVID-19 is not gone, and a second wave is likely.

We have identified #5KeystoPreventingCOVID19:
1. Access to a trusted medical home,
2. Frequent testing,
3. Contact tracing – answer the call,
4. Taking simple precautions, and
5. Maintaining your health

We will be highlighting the #5KeystoPreventingCOVID19 all month! Visit www.gchd.us/coronavirus for more information on keeping yourself and others safe!

#GeneseeCounty #FlintStrong #COVID19Prevention

Below is a cumulative count of cases within Genesee County. This data will be updated ONCE daily at 2 p.m. and is based on the totals as of 10 a.m.

07/06/2020

Barbershop Confessions in the Big Easy

Today is our first #BIPOCMentalHealthMonday as part of BIPOC Mental Health Month!

Today we are highlighting The Confess Project, founded by Lorenzo Lewis, which seeks to engage men of color in important conversations about mental health in barbershops. The project works to inspire "boys, men of color, and their families to be better emotionally” through access, advocacy, innovation, and research.

Watch the video from the National Alliance on Mental Health to learn more about The Confess Project, and visit https://www.theconfessproject.com/!

#NAMI #TheConfessProject #mentalhealthmatters #StrengthOverSilence

Barbershop Confession in the Big Easy -- Meet Lorenzo Lewis, founder of The Confess Project, and learn how he uses barbershops across America as platforms to...

07/05/2020

Reminder:
the Health Department will be closed tomorrow, Monday, July 6th. We will reopen Tuesday, July 7th at 8am!

07/05/2020

July is National Parks and Recreation Month! This year’s theme is “We are Parks and Recreation,” and the National Recreation and Parks Association will be highlighting the diversity of park and recreation professionals, and highlighting their essential work.

Visit www.nrpa.org for more information! #WeAreParksAndRec

07/04/2020

Happy Independence Day! Enjoy the day and stay safe!

07/03/2020

Traveling during 4th of July weekend?

Remember to take precautions – maintain distance between yourself and others, wear a cloth face covering, wash your hands often, and sanitize with an alcohol-based sanitizer of at least 60% alcohol when you don’t have access to soap and water.

Stay safe while you celebrate! #COVID19Prevention #CDC #GeneseeCounty

07/03/2020

The Genesee County Health Department is closed today and Monday in observance of Independence Day!
Enjoy the weekend and stay safe!

07/02/2020

Did you know that heat exposure is the leading cause of heat stroke? When an individual has had prolonged exposure to excessive heat, they can become severely ill. Signs and symptoms of a heat stroke include: headache, racing heart rates, flushed skin, nausea and vomiting, rapid breathing, altered mental state or behavior, alteration on sweating and high body temperatures. It is important to take preventive measures to stay cool. See tips below on how to protect yourself from excessive heat.
 Wear loose fitting and lightweight clothing; avoid wearing excess clothing
 Drink Plenty of water, stay hydrated
 Avoid strenuous activities in high temperature environments
 Protect yourself against sunburn by applying sunscreen when outdoors in direct sunlight
 Never leave anyone a parked car
If you believe that someone is experiencing illness due to excessive heat exposure get them indoors immediately, remove excess clothing, and cool them down as quickly as possible with a fan and/or cool water. If symptoms persist or become worse, call 911 immediately.

For more information, visit the Mayo Clinic at https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heat-stroke/symptoms-causes/syc-20353581

07/01/2020

Have you taken the 2020 Census yet?! The questionnaire takes about 10 minutes to complete and it’s confidential – your information and privacy are protected!
Your response helps to decide what federal funds are directed to our community for schools, roads, and other public services.
There is still time to answer! Visit www.my2020census.gov and make your voice heard today!
#my2020census #FlintStrong #GeneseeCounty

07/01/2020

Today marks the start of BIPOC Mental Health Month! Formally recognized in 2008, the goal is to raise awareness about the disparities in mental health care for minority populations and advocate for advances in health equity.

Each Monday we will be sharing information and stories from the National Alliance on Mental Illness’s #StrengthOverSilence campaign – highlighting mental health perspectives from the African American and Latinx communities.

#BIPOCmentalhealthmonth #NAMI #mentalhealthmatters

07/01/2020

With the holiday this weekend, you may be planning outdoor gatherings. However, COVID-19 is not gone – we still need to take precautions when spending time with people that are not part of our household.

Remember to maintain physical distance of at least 6 feet, wear a mask or cloth face covering in public spaces, wash your hands with soap and water often, and avoid touching your eyes and mouth.

Enjoy the weather and stay safe!
Visit www.gchd.us/coronavirus for more information #COVID19Prevention

06/30/2020

Fourth of July weekend is just a few days away!
Stay safe when celebrating!

Find safety tips here https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/tools-resources/seasonal-safety/summer/fireworks?fbclid=IwAR2VYlCewv062f0iQ5MGDDiUlUv-m_LUsmc8warx1oHXwV2ym5VfMCEHqp8

06/30/2020

Men who smoke are at risk for heart disease, cancer, lower respiratory diseases, stroke, and diabetes—the first, second, fourth, fifth and sixth leading causes of death among men in the United States in 2015. Nearly all lung cancer—the number one cancer killer of both men and women—is caused by smoking. Smokers are up to 20 times more likely to develop lung cancer than nonsmokers. And men with prostate cancer who smoke may be more likely to die from the disease than nonsmoking men with prostate cancer.

Cigarette smoking can also lead to other complications for men, specifically. Men who smoke may be at risk of erectile dysfunction. Additionally, because smoking can damage the DNA in sperm, it may lead to an increased risk of infertility.

If you or a man in your life is trying to quit smoking, there are resources that can help. Smokefree.gov offers tips and strategies for quitting, as well as smartphone apps and a texting support program. FDA’s “Every Try Counts” campaign is aimed at encouraging smokers to quit through messages of support that underscore the health benefits of quitting. It may take several attempts to quit using tobacco products for good, but it is important to remember that every attempt is a learning experience and helps bring you closer to staying quit.

#MensHealthMonth

06/29/2020

Many local health centers have stopped distributing condoms due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has developed a program to ensure that people in the community are still able to get condoms for free and without having to leave their homes. To order condoms, please send an email with your name and mailing address to [email protected]

06/29/2020

It’s getting hot out here!! We want to make sure that social distancing while running errands and traveling with children is as safe as possible.

Safety Tips Include:
• Keep children cool and hydrated; make sure that children have plenty of fluids during the hot summer days
• Never leave children in a parked car, even with the windows cracked, car temperatures can rise almost 20 degrees Fahrenheit within the first 10 minutes
• Dress infants and children in loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing
• If tolerable, make sure that your children have a mask for entering public places

Children left unattended in parked cars are at greater risk for heat stroke and possible death. Keep your children safe from Covid-19 and excessive heat exposure by using the above tips.

Click the link to spot heat related illnesses: https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/warning.html

06/28/2020

Take the time to #speaktoyourhealthtoday at www.gchd.us/speak/
#STYH #GeneseeCounty #FlintStrong

06/27/2020

It is time to mow the lawn, plant some flowers, and cure the crops! Pesticides can cause serious injuries or even death if used improperly. Protect yourself!

The CDC recommends the following tips to ensure the safe use of pesticides:

• Wear protective clothing while working with pesticides
• Do Not eat, drink, or smoke around pesticides
• Mix, Load and apply pesticides properly
• Properly store pesticides
• Dispose of pesticides properly

Click the link below to learn more about the above recommendations
https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/tsunamis/pesticidesafety.html

06/27/2020

National HIV Testing Day (NHTD) is an annual observance to encourage people of all ages to get tested for HIV and to know their status. An estimated 1.1 million people in the United States have HIV, including about 162,500 (14%, or 1 in 7) people who do not know they have it. For more information or to schedule free and confidential HIV testing, call us at 810-257-3139 or visit www.gchd.us

06/26/2020

Healthy Start

Through home visiting services utilizing nurses, dietitians, social workers and community health workers, Healthy Start seeks to improve pregnancy outcomes for the entire family. Starting during pregnancy, the Healthy Start program encourages women to receive prenatal care to ensure the best health for themselves and their baby. Women are also encouraged to try breastfeeding their new baby and fathers are provided education on how to support breastfeeding. New parents receive education about how to care for the baby when it arrives, and what to expect developmentally during the first 18 months of baby’s life. Healthy start participants (mothers, children AND fathers) can also be referred to other programs to meet any other needs they may have. This includes help with food, diapers and other baby items, as well as help with other needs such as transportation, housing and employment.

Please visit the Healthy Start page at https://gchd.us/services/maternalinfant-services/healthy-start/ for more information

Sometimes moms just need a little help working through problems, getting information on housing and eating right, making and keeping doctor appointments, infant bonding, advice, getting baby clothes or other items and health care questions. Healthy Start is a group of organizations (Genesee County H...