Posted on July 3, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Skin is technically the largest organ that humans have and it serves an incredibly vital purpose. Not only does it protect your internal organs but it guards against injury and infection. That’s why it’s important to make sure you’re doing everything you can to care for it.
Since this is the time of year where we typically begin seeing sunshine-filled days more frequently, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recognizes the month of July as UV Safety Month.
Officials use this time to remind people to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves from the effects of ultraviolet rays.
In addition to increasing the risk of developing skin-cancer, UV rays from the sun and indoor tanning devices can cause other health complications such as eye problems and a weakened immune system.
Fortunately there are some easy ways to protect yourself this summer.
For instance, you can reduce your risk by staying out of the sun during “peak burn hours”. According to the Center for Disease Control and the World Health Organization, that time is between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If at all possible, head for the shade during that time.
Wearing protective clothing is another good way to avoid complications. This includes sunglasses and hats as well as long sleeve shirts and pants to guard against UV rays directly.
However, when you consider the typical temperature during this time of year, clothing that covers skin can be uncomfortable and impractical.
That’s why it’s also a good idea to stock up on sunscreen to cover all exposed skin. Make sure to initially apply a generous amount to all exposed areas and regularly re-apply, even if it’s described as water resistant.
Keep in mind that just because you see the sun dip behind the clouds that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re less at risk. Individuals are not immune to sun damage on cloudy days so be sure to keep these UV safety tips in mind, regardless of the forecast.
Click the following link for additional Sun Safety Information.
Showing posts with label Center for Disease Control. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Center for Disease Control. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 3, 2019
Thursday, May 30, 2019
Don’t Let Mosquitoes Suck the Fun Out of Your Summer
Posted on May 30, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
The recent rainy weather combined with the spike temperature has created the ideal conditions for mosquitoes to thrive.
Everyone hates the little pests and the itchy bumps they leave behind and in some cases, the insects could even be carrying a mosquito-borne disease.
The Center for Disease Control has issued a few different precautionary measures you should take in order to protect yourself from bites.
Look around your property and try to spot spaces that seem like mosquito breeding grounds. Dispose of all old items such as tires and buckets and be sure there is no stagnant water in the area.
Also be sure to keep your grass mowed and vegetation under control to reduce the risk of mosquitoes being attracted to your yard.
When going outdoors, especially into heavily wooded areas or spaces near bodies of water, wear protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and pants. If you wear tightly woven and thick fabrics, the insects will have a harder time reaching your skin.
Additionally, try to wear clothes on the lighter end of the spectrum because mosquitoes are drawn to dark colors.
Last, but certainly not least, wear insect repellent when you go outside.
The Environmental Protection Agency has a number of registered insect repellents that, when used as directed, are proven safe and effective, even for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Key ingredients in these repellents include DEET, Picaridin and Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, among other things.
For additional information, click the links provided above.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
The recent rainy weather combined with the spike temperature has created the ideal conditions for mosquitoes to thrive.
Everyone hates the little pests and the itchy bumps they leave behind and in some cases, the insects could even be carrying a mosquito-borne disease.
The Center for Disease Control has issued a few different precautionary measures you should take in order to protect yourself from bites.
Look around your property and try to spot spaces that seem like mosquito breeding grounds. Dispose of all old items such as tires and buckets and be sure there is no stagnant water in the area.
Also be sure to keep your grass mowed and vegetation under control to reduce the risk of mosquitoes being attracted to your yard.
When going outdoors, especially into heavily wooded areas or spaces near bodies of water, wear protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and pants. If you wear tightly woven and thick fabrics, the insects will have a harder time reaching your skin.
Additionally, try to wear clothes on the lighter end of the spectrum because mosquitoes are drawn to dark colors.
Last, but certainly not least, wear insect repellent when you go outside.
The Environmental Protection Agency has a number of registered insect repellents that, when used as directed, are proven safe and effective, even for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Key ingredients in these repellents include DEET, Picaridin and Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, among other things.
For additional information, click the links provided above.
Monday, April 9, 2018
Starke County Prosecutor Issues Press Release about Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Posted on April 7, 2018
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Sexual violence is a serious public health issue that affects millions of men and women. According to the Center for Disease Control, in the United States alone, 1 in 6 men and 1 in 3 women reported experiencing sexual violence involving physical contact at some point in their life.
As startling as that statistic may sound, it doesn’t capture the true magnitude of the problem as many victims do not tell police, family or friends about the incident. Unfortunately, this is a crisis that individuals may face at any age. Children, adolescents, adults and the elderly can all fall prey to attackers.
In an effort to draw attention to the pervasive problem, April is recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Starke County Prosecutor Nicholas Bourff issued a press release about the topic providing some information and commenting on the seriousness of sexual assault. He said that having respect for all individuals and understanding that it can be offensive to violate someone’s personal space will help eliminate this type of abuse.
The prosecutor added that consent is about respecting and accepting the choices of others in everyday situations. He stated that sexual violence is any type of unwanted sexual contact including actions such as sexual harassment, name-calling, ‘revenge porn’, inappropriate contact and rape.
Bourff mentioned that changing attitudes that diminish the seriousness of sexual assault is another way all people can work to reduce the frequency of such incidents. This starts by discouraging anyone who victim blames or laughs at inappropriate or unwanted comments.
Those looking to speak with someone about a personal situation can contact the Victims Assistance Division of the Starke County Prosecutor’s Office at 574-772-7756. More information and helpful resources can be found on the Center for Disease Control website.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Sexual violence is a serious public health issue that affects millions of men and women. According to the Center for Disease Control, in the United States alone, 1 in 6 men and 1 in 3 women reported experiencing sexual violence involving physical contact at some point in their life.
As startling as that statistic may sound, it doesn’t capture the true magnitude of the problem as many victims do not tell police, family or friends about the incident. Unfortunately, this is a crisis that individuals may face at any age. Children, adolescents, adults and the elderly can all fall prey to attackers.
In an effort to draw attention to the pervasive problem, April is recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Starke County Prosecutor Nicholas Bourff issued a press release about the topic providing some information and commenting on the seriousness of sexual assault. He said that having respect for all individuals and understanding that it can be offensive to violate someone’s personal space will help eliminate this type of abuse.
The prosecutor added that consent is about respecting and accepting the choices of others in everyday situations. He stated that sexual violence is any type of unwanted sexual contact including actions such as sexual harassment, name-calling, ‘revenge porn’, inappropriate contact and rape.
Bourff mentioned that changing attitudes that diminish the seriousness of sexual assault is another way all people can work to reduce the frequency of such incidents. This starts by discouraging anyone who victim blames or laughs at inappropriate or unwanted comments.
Those looking to speak with someone about a personal situation can contact the Victims Assistance Division of the Starke County Prosecutor’s Office at 574-772-7756. More information and helpful resources can be found on the Center for Disease Control website.
Friday, January 5, 2018
The CDC Warns Individuals to Be Aware of High Frostbite and Hypothermia Risks This Time of Year
Posted on January 5, 2018
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
With extremely cold temperatures and frigid wind chills expected to continue in the coming weeks, the Center for Disease Control is warning people to take necessary precautions to avoid getting hypothermia or frostbite.
Before going outside, make sure you’re sufficiently dressed for the weather. Your fingers, toes, ears, cheeks, chin and nose should all be thoroughly protected, as these are the areas most vulnerable to frostbite.
The CDC reports that the first sign of frostbite is redness or pain in a particular skin area. However, many frostbite victims are often unaware of the severity of their condition due to the frozen tissue feeling numb. Additional signs include skin that feels unusually waxy or firm and skin turning a white or grayish-yellow color.
Hypothermia is described as a condition that often occurs in extremely cold temperatures but can also happen at cool temperatures above 40 degrees if a person is wet from rain or sweat and becomes chilled.
Symptoms of hypothermia for babies include bright, red cold skin and very low energy. Adults who are shivering and show signs of slurred speech, memory loss, drowsiness and fumbling hands would be exhibiting symptoms of hypothermia.
If a person’s temperature dips below 95 degrees, immediately seek medical attention. In the meanwhile, frostbite and hypothermia victims should be taken to a warm area. Remove any wet clothing and warm them under dry layers of blankets and clothing.
Avoid walking on feet or toes with frostbite and do not rub or massage affected areas. Additionally and never attempt to treat it with a heating pad, electric blanket, radiator, fire place or heat lamp instead, place areas affected by frostbite in warm-to-touch water.
Certain people can be more prone to these two winter afflictions such as elderly adults without proper food, clothing or heating and babies sleeping in cold rooms. Those who stay outdoors for long periods of time such as hikers, hunters and homeless individuals also run a higher risk.
Click the following link to download a CDC info-graphic with more information about frostbite and hypothermia identification and prevention.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
With extremely cold temperatures and frigid wind chills expected to continue in the coming weeks, the Center for Disease Control is warning people to take necessary precautions to avoid getting hypothermia or frostbite.
Before going outside, make sure you’re sufficiently dressed for the weather. Your fingers, toes, ears, cheeks, chin and nose should all be thoroughly protected, as these are the areas most vulnerable to frostbite.
The CDC reports that the first sign of frostbite is redness or pain in a particular skin area. However, many frostbite victims are often unaware of the severity of their condition due to the frozen tissue feeling numb. Additional signs include skin that feels unusually waxy or firm and skin turning a white or grayish-yellow color.
Hypothermia is described as a condition that often occurs in extremely cold temperatures but can also happen at cool temperatures above 40 degrees if a person is wet from rain or sweat and becomes chilled.
Symptoms of hypothermia for babies include bright, red cold skin and very low energy. Adults who are shivering and show signs of slurred speech, memory loss, drowsiness and fumbling hands would be exhibiting symptoms of hypothermia.
If a person’s temperature dips below 95 degrees, immediately seek medical attention. In the meanwhile, frostbite and hypothermia victims should be taken to a warm area. Remove any wet clothing and warm them under dry layers of blankets and clothing.
Avoid walking on feet or toes with frostbite and do not rub or massage affected areas. Additionally and never attempt to treat it with a heating pad, electric blanket, radiator, fire place or heat lamp instead, place areas affected by frostbite in warm-to-touch water.
Certain people can be more prone to these two winter afflictions such as elderly adults without proper food, clothing or heating and babies sleeping in cold rooms. Those who stay outdoors for long periods of time such as hikers, hunters and homeless individuals also run a higher risk.
Click the following link to download a CDC info-graphic with more information about frostbite and hypothermia identification and prevention.
Thursday, November 2, 2017
Starke County Public Health Nurse Provides Tips for Flu Season
Posted on November 2, 2017
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Flu season is officially upon us and getting a flu shot is the best way to protect yourself from coming down with the most common strains of the disease.
Each year, influenza viruses are spread around the United States through coughing, sneezing, and close contact. The sickness can strike suddenly and last for several days. Symptoms vary by age but typically include a runny or stuffy nose, head and muscle aches, fatigue, fever or chills, a sore throat and coughing.
Starke County Health Department Public Health Nurse Frank Lynch has a few helpful tips to ensure citizens stay healthy this time of year.
“It is flu season so as usual, you want to wash your hands and stay home if you’re sick.” He explained, “Flu shots are available here at the health department. Kids that are on Medicaid or don’t have health insurance, the flu shots are free, as far as for adults it’s $20 for a flu shot.”
He added that though the shot does protect against the strains that the Center for Disease Control determines to be the most prevalent for a given year, it doesn’t protect against all strains. He also mentioned that contrary to popular belief, there are no live viruses in the vaccine so they cannot cause the flu.
He wants people to be aware that the effects of the shot are not immediate. There is usually a 2 week period where your body is building up immunity so if you were exposed to a flu virus before you were vaccinated or within that window of time, there is a chance you could exhibit symptoms.
For more information call the Starke County Health Department at 574-772-9137.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Flu season is officially upon us and getting a flu shot is the best way to protect yourself from coming down with the most common strains of the disease.
Each year, influenza viruses are spread around the United States through coughing, sneezing, and close contact. The sickness can strike suddenly and last for several days. Symptoms vary by age but typically include a runny or stuffy nose, head and muscle aches, fatigue, fever or chills, a sore throat and coughing.
Starke County Health Department Public Health Nurse Frank Lynch has a few helpful tips to ensure citizens stay healthy this time of year.
“It is flu season so as usual, you want to wash your hands and stay home if you’re sick.” He explained, “Flu shots are available here at the health department. Kids that are on Medicaid or don’t have health insurance, the flu shots are free, as far as for adults it’s $20 for a flu shot.”
He added that though the shot does protect against the strains that the Center for Disease Control determines to be the most prevalent for a given year, it doesn’t protect against all strains. He also mentioned that contrary to popular belief, there are no live viruses in the vaccine so they cannot cause the flu.
He wants people to be aware that the effects of the shot are not immediate. There is usually a 2 week period where your body is building up immunity so if you were exposed to a flu virus before you were vaccinated or within that window of time, there is a chance you could exhibit symptoms.
For more information call the Starke County Health Department at 574-772-9137.
Tuesday, September 5, 2017
ISDH Begins Toxicology Pilot Program to Improve Coroner Consistency in the State
Posted on September 2, 2017
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
The Center for Disease Control said that Indiana is one of the three worst states for overdose fatality reports because of inconsistencies in the way coroners test and fill out death certificates. In an effort to improve that reporting, the Indiana State Department of Health’s Division of Trauma and Injury Prevention launched a toxicology pilot program that works with coroners and allows them to order either a basic or more comprehensive panel.
Currently, no national standards exist for toxicology testing and tests conducted often vary by coroner’s office, capacity and funding. The limited toxicology testing may be due in part to the increasing number of deaths due to opioids which could result in coroners lacking the necessary resources needed to implement comprehensive toxicology testing panels.
Comprehensive toxicology testing is vital to properly indentify drugs, specifically opioids. County coroner’s offices are responsible for conducting investigations and determining when an autopsy is required during investigations. During an autopsy, toxicological laboratory tests might be performed to determine the types of drugs present.
However, the substances tested for and circumstances which the tests are performed vary from county to county. As a result, certain tests may not capture particular synthetic substances, potentially limiting the understanding of changing and emerging drug threats.
In order to improve methods ISDH will be working with five Indiana counties during the pilot program that will run until the end of October. During that time, ISDH will be using grant funding to pay for the toxicology testing on suspected overdose deaths. The goal of the project is to increase the number of tests ordered and improve the reporting of drug-specific data.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
The Center for Disease Control said that Indiana is one of the three worst states for overdose fatality reports because of inconsistencies in the way coroners test and fill out death certificates. In an effort to improve that reporting, the Indiana State Department of Health’s Division of Trauma and Injury Prevention launched a toxicology pilot program that works with coroners and allows them to order either a basic or more comprehensive panel.
Currently, no national standards exist for toxicology testing and tests conducted often vary by coroner’s office, capacity and funding. The limited toxicology testing may be due in part to the increasing number of deaths due to opioids which could result in coroners lacking the necessary resources needed to implement comprehensive toxicology testing panels.
Comprehensive toxicology testing is vital to properly indentify drugs, specifically opioids. County coroner’s offices are responsible for conducting investigations and determining when an autopsy is required during investigations. During an autopsy, toxicological laboratory tests might be performed to determine the types of drugs present.
However, the substances tested for and circumstances which the tests are performed vary from county to county. As a result, certain tests may not capture particular synthetic substances, potentially limiting the understanding of changing and emerging drug threats.
In order to improve methods ISDH will be working with five Indiana counties during the pilot program that will run until the end of October. During that time, ISDH will be using grant funding to pay for the toxicology testing on suspected overdose deaths. The goal of the project is to increase the number of tests ordered and improve the reporting of drug-specific data.
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