Dear Community Members,
Every year, the University of Wisconsin publishes an extensive assessment of the health of counties across the nation. This study considers the categories of health outcomes (such as premature death, quality of life, and birth outcomes) and health factors (such as academic, economic, environmental, and behaviors). The standing of each county is presented in comparison to its home state and the nation overall. Each county is also placed on a continuum from “Least Healthy in the US” to “Healthiest in the US” and I’m pleased to report that Kent County continues to rank in the healthiest quartile of counties in both health outcomes and factors.
We positively ranked with a life expectancy average of 78.7 years, higher than Michigan (76.6) and the national average (77.6) and our premature death rates are lower than both the state and national averages as well. However, we also face challenges like the rate of sexually transmitted illnesses is higher in Kent County (586.7 chlamydia cases per 100,000 of population) than in Michigan (452.4) or the nation (495.5). Alcohol is more frequently found to be a factor in fatal auto accidents (33%) compared to Michigan (30%) or the nation (26%). And our air quality is compromised by more fine particulate matter (8.1 micrograms per cubic meter) than Michigan (6.8 micrograms) and the nation (7.4 micrograms). These measures, compiled from multiple data sets in the County Health Rankings, are among the many sources of information we watch closely as we work to serve a healthy community for all. In the next newsletter, I will share some key findings from our Kent County Community Health Needs Assessment that I think you will find very surprising.
We have a lot of work to do, but I am genuinely grateful for all you do to make Kent County a healthier place to live, work, and play.
Adam London, PhD, RS, DAAS
Administrative Health Officer
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Get Ahead of Lead Campaign Success
Through our outreach, we educated the public on lead hazards and, with the support of our entire health department, ensured that 11,338 homes received filters and 6,524 replacement cartridges were provided. Huge thanks to our amazing county team for their outstanding work and dedication!
For our work, we proudly received the NACCHO Model Practice Award, and our partner, Kathi Harris, was honored as a Hometown Hero. We also received a 2024 Achievement Award for the Get Ahead of Lead campaign and website from the National Association of Counties (NACO), which recognizes innovative county government programs and services.
As the state model takes over, we'll continue to support families with elevated blood lead levels. We have already announced the transition to the next phase in the fight against lead exposure. The Kent County Health and Community Action departments have enhanced our website to serve as a one-stop resource for news, events, and important information related to lead exposure prevention. Specifically, it features a series of tools, resources, and quick guides for parents, homeowners, renters, property owners, and community resource providers. Visit gettingaheadoflead.com for more details.
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Free Confidential STI and HIV Testing
Our South Clinic will be offering free confidential STI and HIV testing on Monday’s & Wednesday’s from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at 4700 Kalamazoo Ave. SE for the summer. Testing is now available and is taking place in our mobile unit, but will be closed on 6/19, 8/14, & 9/2.
We will also provide free HIV testing at our Fuller Campus (700 Fuller Ave.) on HIV Testing Day, June 27, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Your health is in your hands! Everyone who is sexually active should get tested at least yearly or more based on risk. Access to testing is crucial for the health and well-being of our community in Kent County. For HIV, many individuals may not exhibit symptoms, making testing the only reliable way to know one's status.
By offering free testing, we hope to ensure that everyone, regardless of their medical insurance status or other barriers, has the opportunity to take charge of their health and contribute to a healthier community.
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Avian influenza/Bird Flu
Our Communicable Disease team would like to share some important information regarding the current situation with avian influenza/bird flu (HPAI). This virus primarily affects birds but can occasionally impact other animals, including dairy cows and humans. Recently, a strain called H5N1 has infected over 50 species. Since 2022, the U.S. has had only four human cases, including two Michigan dairy farm workers in May 2024. The CDC assures us that the risk to people is low because the virus isn't spreading easily between humans. Inspections confirm our food supply is safe as well, with no signs of the virus in meat, milk, or eggs.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is actively monitoring the situation and working with health officials to control the virus. To keep safe, please avoid raw milk, cook poultry and eggs thoroughly, and avoid visiting dairy and poultry farms. If you visit a farm, watch for flu-like symptoms and contact us if you feel sick. Stay informed and stay safe! For more detailed information, please visit here.
Mosquito and Tick Surveillance Program
For over a decade, our team has been monitoring mosquito and tick populations to prevent the transmission of vectorborne diseases and protect public health. These small but dangerous pests are responsible for transmitting illnesses such as Lyme Disease, West Nile Virus, Jamestown Canyon Virus, and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). Our surveillance program aims to detect these diseases early on in mosquito and tick populations and prevent transmission to residents through education and coordinating mosquito control activities with local municipalities.
Mosquito surveillance involves regular sampling of mosquito populations to identify species and track their abundance. This is done using specialized traps located across Kent County. Collected mosquitos are then sorted and tested for vectorborne diseases. With this data, we can assess the risk of disease outbreaks based on the presence and quantity of specific mosquito species known to carry pathogens. Tick surveillance is similarly important, focusing on monitoring tick populations and their habitats. Field work involves dragging a cloth through vegetation to collect ticks in public areas often used by residents. The collected tick species are identified and tested for the bacterium responsible for Lyme disease.
Data from these surveillance activities enable timely and targeted interventions, such as educating the public on protective measures and coordination of mosquito control activities. Preventative measures include using insect repellent with at least 25% DEET, covering exposed skin with light covered clothing, remove any standing water from property, avoiding areas with high tick and mosquito concentrations, and performing tick checks after outdoor activities. Our surveillance program has been crucial in reducing the incidence of vectorborne diseases and mitigating their impact on the community.
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Food Safety Tips
As we gear up for the summer months, let's make sure our outdoor celebrations are both fun and healthy. A few simple steps can keep everyone safe while having a good time. Here are some easy tips to keep in mind:
1. Wash hands properly: Use soap and water, or if unavailable, use hand wipes or sanitizer.
2. Keep food at safe temperatures: Avoid the "Danger Zone" (40°F-140°F). Pack food on ice and don't leave perishable foods out in the heat.
3. Separate coolers: Use one cooler for beverages and another for perishable foods.
4. Cook meats thoroughly: Use a meat thermometer to ensure meats are properly cooked.
5. Clean surfaces and hands: Use soapy towelettes and cover picnic tables.
For more tips, visit www.foodsafety.gov.
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Safely Enjoy Swimming Pools This Summer
As temperatures rise swimming pools provide a fantastic way to cool off and have some fun, but safety is not always at the forefront when envisioning a fun day at the local pool. The advice below will assist in safely beating the heat by taking a dip on a hot summer day!
Secure Enclosures: Pools should have a fence or other secure enclosure around the perimeter creating a barrier that helps prevent unsupervised access to the water, especially for young children. Entry to the enclosure should be through self-closing and self-latching gates or doors.
Clear Water: Clean and clear water is important for swimmer safety. Water clarity can be a good indicator of appropriate chemical levels and care. Cloudy water makes it difficult to see potential hazards underwater and indicates poor water quality.
Staying Hydrated: Swimming is a great form of exercise. However, exercise and sunshine can quickly lead to dehydration. Dehydration can cause dizziness, fatigue, and muscle cramps. Ensure you’re drinking plenty of fresh was while splashing in the pool and encourage children to do the same.
Following these tips can help create a safe and enjoyable day while relaxing at the pool!
Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program
The Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Navigation Program (BC3NP) was implemented in 1991 by MDHHS. BC3NP coordinates breast and cervical cancer screenings and diagnostic services for low-income, uninsured, and clients with a high deductible health insurance plan. Since 1991, our BC3NP program has facilitated the screening services for over 240,000 clients. BC3NP also provides navigation services to help clients overcome barriers and have timely access to quality care. To learn more about scheduling a screening, please contact 616-632-7283 or e-mail the team at BC3NP@kentcountymi.gov.
The BC3NP program at our Health Department serves four counties – Barry, Ottawa, Kent, and Muskegon, and significantly impacts the lives of over 1,000 clients annually. In 2023, breast and cervical coordination services were provided to at least 1,150 clients. Our BC3NP program works with providers to connect clients to compassionate services designed to detect breast and cervical cancer and ultimately improve patients' survival rates. In the upcoming year, we plan to expand our outreach to serve a larger number of individuals facing challenging circumstances. We use demographic data to determine which populations are at the highest risk and focus our attention on making an impact to reduce health disparities. We are dedicated to bolstering our presence at community events and to deliver education and support for the healthcare providers we partner with to ensure that they are well-equipped to deliver the highest-quality care to those in need.
Our overarching mission is to underscore the significance of early detection through screening to reduce mortality and morbidity of breast and cervical cancer. We recognize that these efforts are pivotal in reducing mortality rates and substantially improving cancer outcomes. By advocating for and facilitating accessible screening opportunities, we aspire to positively impact the lives of many individuals and families.
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Free Locks for Safe Firearm Storage
Governor Gretchen Whitmer recently signed legislation that helps ensure that children do not accidentally get their hands on firearms or ammunition in the home. The goal is to prevent children from hurting themselves or others with firearms. Firearms are now the leading cause of death among children ages 1 to 17 in the United States. For these important reasons, we will be providing cable gun locks at no cost to the public.
Responsible gun owners will tell you how important it is to keep your guns locked up in your home, especially when there are children whose curiosity could lead them to play with a gun. The cable locks provided by the Health Department are devices which will help prevent the unintentional discharge of the gun. To receive one, a person just needs to stop by the front reception area at our 700 Fuller NE location and request one. The Sheriff’s Office also has free locks available upon request. Our home visitors will also be distributing a cable lock to any of their clients who request one, along with providing valuable education about the importance of keeping guns out of the hands of small children.
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Offices and Clinics Closed on Juneteenth and the Fourth of July
All Health Department offices and clinics will be closed on Wednesday, June 19 in observance of Juneteenth and on July 4 in observance of Independence Day.
For more information about and contact information for Kent County departments, visit our website at www.accesskent.com.
There are a wide variety of jobs open right now working for Kent County. At the Health Department, we are currently hiring for a Emergency Preparedness - Public Health Program Supervisor and a Public Health Nurse - Children's Special Health Care Services.
As a Kent County employee, you will receive a competitive salary and a benefits program that is hard to beat. All of this while providing valuable services to your community.
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