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Hi there,
After the recent terrible mass shooting in Rochester Hills, I wanted to share my heartfelt concern for everyone touched by this tragedy. I hope those in need have the resources and support necessary during this time.
Visit our website to find mental health resources following a traumatic event. It has local mental health resources as well as resources specifically for children, parents and emergency responders. You may have noticed that this shooting event has caused you to revisit tragic memories of the Oxford High School shooting. Read SAMHSA’s Tips for Survivors of a Disaster or Other Traumatic Event: Coping with Retraumatization for tips managing and developing resilience to retraumatization.
Continue to check-in with each other through this difficult time. Also, take time to care for yourself and reach out for help if you need it.
Many of our residents continue their Fourth of July celebrations this weekend and may spend more time outdoors. As we experience more frequent extreme heat days, it’s important to know the symptoms of heat-related illness and when to get help. Please see helpful information below and on our website. You can also find a list of cooling centers in Oakland County that open during severe weather events-share this information with those who may need it.
Lastly, World Hepatitis C day is July 28. It's estimated that at least 200,000 Michiganders have Hepatitis C & many don't know they have it. Our Harm Reduction clinic is offering free, rapid Hep C testing in Pontiac (148 N. Saginaw St.) from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. on July 26. Feel free to stop in for a test!
In good health,
Leigh-Anne Stafford, Director, Health and Human Services
Join us for Family Market Day!
Join us on July 18, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Oak Park Farmer’s Market or July 20, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Oakland County Farmers Market for Family Market Days! Oakland County residents with a State of Michigan Bridge/EBT card will receive a $5 coupon to purchase produce from local farmers on Family Market Days. Coupons are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, and must be used during the event. No registration is necessary.
 
Save the Date: Health & Housing Summer Fest in August
Know the Symptoms of Heat-Related Illness
Most of the time our bodies can cool themselves down by sweating, but sometimes, that’s not enough. Older adults, very young children, people with mental illness and chronic disease are at highest risk for heat-related illness.
We can experience heat-related illnesses like heat stroke, exhaustion, cramps, rash, and sunburn during extreme heat. Heat stroke is considered a medical emergency and 911 needs to be called immediately for help.
Watch out for these heat stroke symptoms:
- High body temperature (103°F or higher)
- Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
- Fast, strong pulse
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Passing out
After calling 911, you can move the ill person to a cooler place and help lower the person’s temperature with cool cloths or a cool bath. Also, remove extra clothing layers and loosen clothing. Do not give the person anything to drink.
Beat the heat in extreme heat by staying cool, hydrated and informed this summer. Never leave pets or children in a parked car. Always double check your child isn’t in the car before leaving it.
Have a food safe summer
Foodborne illnesses tend to increase during the summer months because bacteria multiply faster when it’s warm. People also cook outside, away from refrigerators, thermometers, and sinks more often. Stay healthy and safe by following these food safety guidelines to have a food safe summer:
July highlights inclusion awareness for people living with disabilities
On July 26, we celebrate the signing of the American Disabilities Act in 1990. This law prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities and is meant to ensure inclusion and participation in daily activities and opportunities. It also protects individuals with hidden or invisible disabilities that can impact a person’s daily life. A person with a disability may experience discrimination and difficulty accessing healthcare, food, housing, and recreational opportunities. Oakland County Parks & Recreation offer park passes at no cost for seniors, veterans, and people with a permanent disability.
July also marks Disability Pride Month. People with disabilities may have different experiences based on additional identities they hold, including race, gender, and sexual orientation. Celebrate the unique identity of persons who are disabled and identify as LGBTQ+. Explore art, listen to poetry, or nominate a self-advocate for an award.
More Health Division info
Check out our webpage page for information about our services and various health topics. You can also call our Nurse on Call hotline at 1-800-848-5533 (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.).
Oakgov.com/health is the best place to receive the latest information. Add, update, or opt out of Health Division email or text communications by clicking here.
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