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On June 18, 2022, the CDC updated their recommendations based on the FDA’s authorization to allow Pfizer and Moderna vaccines for children as young as six months old. The amended emergency use authorizations include:
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Use of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for individuals 6 months through 17 years of age. The Moderna vaccine is a two-dose series.
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Use of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for individuals 6 months through 4 years of age. The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children ages six month-four years of age is a three-dose series.
Vaccines for all age groups were found to be well-tolerated, safe, and effective. If you have any questions about COVID-19 vaccines for your child, please reach out to your child’s healthcare provider. Visit the CDC’s COVID-19 Vaccines for Children and Teens for more information.
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The Lake County Health Department is investigating a single case of a probable monkeypox infection in a resident of Lake County. Initial testing has been completed through an IDPH lab with a confirmation test pending through the CDC.
The Lake County Health Department and IDPH are working closely with the CDC, the patient, and the patient’s healthcare providers to conduct contact tracing and identify any individuals who may have been in contact with the patient while infectious.
This is the only identified, probable monkeypox case within Lake County at this time. Monkeypox does not spread easily between people and the risk to Lake County residents remains low. For more information about monkeypox, check out our Myth vs. Fact Flyer or visit the CDC’s Monkeypox page.
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Starting on July 16, 2022, dialing 988 will be available to everyone across the United States. 988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The current Lifeline number (800-273-8255) will continue to be available even after 988 is available everywhere.
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The Lake County Health Department is now a Milk Depot in partnership with Mothers' Milk Bank of the Western Great Lakes! We are excited to have a location in our community where people can donate breast milk. The milk depot is located at the Belvidere Medical Building, 2400 Belvidere Road, Waukegan.
Those interested in donating breastmilk to vulnerable infants go through a screening process with the Milk Bank and once they have a donor number, they can call the Lake County Milk Depot to schedule a donation drop off. The Milk Bank pasteurizes and dispenses the milk to those in need in Illinois and Wisconsin.
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There are plenty of nice days left in the summer that will be perfect for swimming! Whether you go to a pool or head to the beach make sure you are prepared. If you plan to head to the beach, visit our Beach Advisory page to check beach statuses in Lake County. Additionally, it is important during hot days to drink lots of water, dress appropriately, wear sunscreen, and do not leave pets or children in cars.
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Many people spend more time outdoors during the warmer months. Visit our new website, FightTheBiteNow.com, for information on how to stay safe and protected from mosquitos and ticks while spending time outdoors.
A mosquito “pool” (batch of mosquitoes) sampled on June 23, 2022, in Highland Park, Illinois has tested positive for West Nile virus. This mosquito pool is the first confirmed indicator of West Nile virus presence in Lake County in 2022. Read the press release for more information.
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Even though it is the beginning of July, it is not too early to be aware of World Hepatitis Day on July 28, 2022. Hepatitis is the leading cause of liver cancer with a person dying every 30 seconds from a hepatitis related illness. This year’s theme is ‘I Can’t Wait,’ highlighting the need to speed up efforts to end hepatitis elimination as well as the importance of tests and treatment. For resources and ways to get involved, visit WorldHepatitisDay.org.
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We know that for many, Fourth of July means food, friends, fireworks, and time outdoors. Lake County continues to remain at high COVID-19 community level. In a “high” community level, the CDC recommends masks when spending time indoors. If you are spending time with family and friends, outdoor gatherings will provide the best environment to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Please stay home if you are sick. Visit these links for some other safe practices to keep in mind during this holiday weekend:
We hope everyone enjoys a safe and healthy holiday weekend!
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Where do I find information about...
Who can I contact to ask a question about...
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Lake County Health Department Services: Call (847) 377-8000
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COVID-19 Vaccines in Lake County: Contact the Lake County Health Department at AllVax@lakecountyil.gov
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COVID-19 in Illinois: Contact the Illinois Department of Public Health at 1-800-889-3931 or DPH.SICK@ILLINOIS.GOV
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