Letter from the Health Officer
Dear Community Member,
We are all familiar with the story of the pilgrims and the first Thanksgiving—or at least we think we know the story well. In truth, what the pilgrims found when they arrived in November of 1620 was more akin to Halloween than Thanksgiving. By their own account, they discovered abandoned “Indian” villages full of “skulls and bones.” It is now believed that a terrible outbreak of leptospirosis had previously decimated the local Wampanoag tribes.
The pilgrims did not fare much better during that first winter. They arrived with around 130 souls aboard the Mayflower. A rogue’s gallery of dysentery, smallpox, pneumonia, tuberculosis, leptospirosis, malnourishment, exposure, and more caused inconceivable suffering during that winter. Within a year, their ranks had thinned to a mere 50 people—less than half of their original number. Thankfully, the surviving pilgrims and Wampanoag were able to connect and cooperate, and the rest of the story is history.
In November of 2024, we have much to be thankful for as we gather around the table with family and friends. Among the blessings I count, I am grateful for the advancements in science and policy that have allowed modern society to forget about things like dysentery, leptospirosis, tuberculosis, and so on. Please know that those of us in public health remember those threats, and we continue to keep them rare while also protecting our communities from new ones. Nationally, the rates of measles and pertussis are on the rise. Sadly, we will also lose people this winter to influenza, COVID, and RSV. Please talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health department about how you can reduce the risk of this suffering through vaccination and prevention.
I also count YOU among the blessings I am thankful for. Kent County is home to countless people who serve others every day to ensure a healthy community for all. Thank you and have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Adam London, PhD, RS, DAAS
Administrative Health Officer
|
 Managing Mental Health During the Holidays
While the holidays are often viewed as a time for celebration and togetherness, many individuals struggle with their mental health during this time of year. Seasonal depression and social isolation can take a toll on many of us, and it’s important to remember that your mental health should always be a top priority. Here are some tips to help support your mental health during the holiday and winter season:
-
Pay attention to your feelings. Your feelings are valid, and it’s important to acknowledge them rather than push them aside. Recognizing and naming your emotions is the first step toward addressing them. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, lonely, or anxious, giving yourself permission to feel is an essential part of improving your mental health.
-
Get outside and stay active. Physical activity, like walking or winter sports, boosts mood and reduces stress. Even a few minutes outside each day can help combat seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
-
Prioritize good-quality sleep. Sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining emotional balance and mental well-being. Try adjusting your routine, like going to bed earlier or reducing screen time, to improve rest.
-
Take breaks and find downtime. The holiday season can be overwhelming. Carve out time for yourself to relax, recharge, and prevent burnout.
-
Volunteer or connect with others. Helping others during the holidays can reduce isolation, provide a sense of purpose, and foster community connections.
-
Balance time alone with time with others. Spend time with loved ones, but also respect your need for quiet time. Finding this balance is key for mental well-being.
-
Reach out for support when needed. Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or professionals if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Asking for help can make a big difference.
If you or a loved one are experiencing a mental health crisis or difficulty, please don’t hesitate to reach out for help—call 988 for support and assistance.
Epidemiologist Reports on Downward Trend in Overdose Deaths
On Tuesday, Oct. 29, our Opioid Epidemiologist Rachel Jantz spoke at Arbor Circle’s inaugural Thomas J. Bullock Memorial Lecture, where she highlighted an encouraging downward trend in overdose deaths over the past few years.
Jantz reported that drug overdose deaths have decreased by 16%, dropping from 110 in 2021 to 92 in 2023. While this trend is promising, Jantz discussed additional data points to reinforce the importance of the Kent County Opioid Task Force (KCOTF) and its continued focus on targeted prevention efforts:
- While deaths involving fentanyl decreased, deaths involving cocaine have increased, rising from 30% in 2020 to 45% in 2023. Additionally, new substances like xylazine and medetomidine—veterinary tranquilizers—have been increasingly detected by drug-checking technology through the Grand Rapids Red Project.
- Despite a drop in overall overdose deaths, the rate among Black individuals has risen to four times higher than that of White individuals, emphasizing the need for focused prevention within communities of color.
- Nearly half of all overdoses occur at residential addresses, underscoring the need for naloxone access in homes.
Jantz said Kent County’s opioid settlement, totaling nearly $19 million through 2038, will continue to support educational campaigns, naloxone and test strip distribution, treatment, as well as community-based recovery coaches and resources.
 Kent County Selected for New Public Health Initiative
Aiming to reduce health disparities by addressing the social and economic factors that impact health, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) launched 14 Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) Hub Pilot sites across the state, including Kent County.
SDOH are the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age that influence their overall health and well-being. These factors—such as economic stability, education, social and community context, healthcare access, and the built environment—can either help or hurt a person's ability to live a healthy life.
SDOH Hubs will promote regional, multisector collaboration and provide the infrastructure for a sustainable statewide framework that addresses SDOH.
 Protect Your Health with Free HIV Testing
Observed annually on Dec. 1, World AIDS Day is an opportunity to honor the more than 32 million people who have died worldwide from AIDS-related illness.
HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, attacks the body's immune system, destroying important cells that fight disease and infection. While most people experience flu-like symptoms a few weeks after HIV infection, some people present no symptoms at all, complicating detection. Left untreated, the virus can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), resulting in serious illness or even death.
“The only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested, making it a critical step in protecting your health, the health of your partner, and the well-being of our entire community," said Christopher Bendekgey, KCHD Community Clinical Services Director.
In recognition of World AIDS Day, we welcome residents to our 700 Fuller Ave NE location in Grand Rapids for FREE walk-in HIV testing from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 27.
 Free Radon Test Kits Offered to Help Reduce Lung Cancer Risk
Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas responsible for taking the lives of approximately 21,000 Americans annually. It comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water, but can sneak into buildings through foundational cracks, floor drains, and sump pits.
Over time, these radioactive particles can build up in the air, threatening those who breathe it in with an increased risk of lung cancer. In fact, radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers in the U.S.
Since there are no warning signs or symptoms from radon exposure, testing is the only way to know if a building and the people in it are at risk. Community members can pick up a radon test kit at our 700 Fuller Ave NE location in Grand Rapids free of cost through Friday, Nov. 29 in recognition of Lung Cancer Awareness Month (November).
 All County Offices and Health Department Clinics Will Be Closed In Observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday
All county offices and clinics will be closed Thursday, Nov. 28, and Friday, Nov. 29 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. Regular operations will resume Monday, Dec. 2.
|
