 Friday, January 20, 2023
Measles cases continue to rise; vaccines help to protect your family
At least one case of measles connected to the outbreak in Columbus, Ohio, has been confirmed in Kentucky, according to state health officials. The outbreak in Columbus has infected 85 children there since October. Currently, there are no confirmed or suspected cases in Jefferson County.
Measles can be dangerous, especially for babies and young children. Measles typically begins with:
- high fever (may spike to more than 104°),
- cough,
- runny nose (coryza), and
- red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis).
Serious complications include pneumonia and encephalitis.
Measles can be prevented with the two-dose MMR vaccine. The CDC recommends that children get the first dose of the vaccine when they are 12 to 15 months old and the second dose when they are 4 to 6 years old. One dose of the vaccine is about 93% effective at preventing measles, while both doses are about 97% effective, the CDC says.
The Department of Public Health and Wellness provides adult and children’s vaccines. Find locations and how to schedule an appointment on our Immunizations website.
WIC helps families stretch their food budgets
 At Louisville Metro Public Health and Wellness WIC, moms learn what to eat while pregnant or breastfeeding and what to feed their growing kids. They also get WIC benefits that can be used at grocery stores to help them provide healthy foods for their families.
If you qualify for WIC (based on your income), you will receive nutritious foods to help you nurture good health for your child or children. You pay NO fees or charges to
receive WIC benefits.
Be sure to learn more about our WIC clinics conveniently located in Louisville. Please call 502-574-7975 to see if you qualify for WIC. The offices are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Radon is an unwelcomed guest in your home
 In recognition of Radon Awareness Week (January 23-27), now is the time to learn more ways to prevent radon in your home.
Radon is an odorless, colorless, radioactive gas. It is also the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Surgeon General’s office estimate radon is responsible for more than 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year. Since it is difficult to identify any immediate symptoms related to radon exposure, it may take years before health problems appear.
Having your home tested is the only effective way to determine whether you or your family is at risk of radon exposure. If you would like to obtain a free test kit, contact us at loumetrohealth@louisvilleky.gov
Learn more about Radon the Invisible Killer (video) in English, Spanish, Somali and Hmong.
We invite you to join our Public Health and Wellness team!
 Are you mission driven? Are you interested in improving the health and wellness of all residents of our city? If the answer is yes, we invite you to be a part of a dedicated team. Please apply today.
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