|
Hi there,
Every February, Black History Month is a time to honor and celebrate Black individuals’ accomplishments but also a time to recognize issues that still need change. Black residents in Oakland County are faced with several types of health inequities. Black people experience higher rates of poor health, disease and even life expectancy. There are several contributing factors that lead to health inequities including systemic racism and discrimination, lack of access to adequate and culturally appropriate health and preventative care, and socioeconomic status. I recently came across this 12-minute video from PBS titled Health Disparities in the Black Community: Past & Present (2020). It is a brief but comprehensive explanation of how black history still impacts current health disparities in our communities.
Oakland County’s Department of Health & Human Services is committed to equity and ensuring everyone has a fair opportunity to thrive.
To learn more about Black history and culture locally, check out Oakland County's list of upcoming events, including musical and dance performances, interactive workshops, and more throughout February in and around Oakland County.
In good health,
Leigh-Anne Stafford, Director, Health and Human Services
Bird Flu prevention highlighted even as human risk remains low
On Jan. 8, the pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu, was identified in animals at a farm in Waterford Twp. Eleven individuals who had direct contact with the animals were monitored for symptoms, but none contracted bird flu. The risk of contracting bird flu is very low for the public, but as detections of this influenza continue to be discovered throughout Michigan, it remains vital to take steps to prevent bird flu.
Residents are encouraged to follow these prevention tips:
- Avoid direct contact with sick or dead birds and animals.
- Use recommended personal protective equipment (PPE) if contact is necessary.
- Refrain from touching surfaces contaminated by bird droppings or bodily fluids.
- Avoid consuming raw milk or raw milk products.
Birds and poultry are most affected by bird flu. The likelihood of dogs catching avian influenza continues to be very low, however several barn/feral cats have become ill from HPAI. Practice these tips for preventing HPAI infection in dogs and cats:
- Keep cats indoors.
- Keep pets that do go outdoors away from wild birds, poultry, and cattle and their environments.
- Prevent pets from eating dead birds or other animals.
- Avoid feeding pets raw meat or poultry and unpasteurized milk.
If bird flu is suspected in a domestic flock, contact Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) immediately at 800-292-3939 (daytime) or 517-373-0440 (after hours). Additionally, report cases of unusual or unexplained deaths among wild bird populations by contacting the Michigan Department of Natural Resources at 517-336-5030.
More information about bird flu can be found on the Health Division’s website at oakgov.com/health or by contacting Nurse on Call at 800-848-5533 or noc@oakgov.com.
ServSafe® Food Safety Manager Certification courses available in Spanish
We offer ServSafe® Food Safety Manager Certification courses in English and Spanish! Restaurant operators, food service managers, or anyone interested in food service sanitation is welcome. Visit https://bit.ly/40bKV2w for class schedules and select a location and time that is convenient for you.
To register, complete the registration form located on the class schedule and mail or deliver to Oakland County Health Division with the appropriate fee. Classes fill quickly. Early registration is recommended. Call 248-858-1312 for more information.
It’s norovirus season – wash your hands!
Norovirus, commonly referred to as “the stomach flu or stomach bug,” typically peaks between November and April. However, norovirus can occur year-round. Symptoms of norovirus include sudden nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramping. Symptoms usually last 24 to 72 hours.
Norovirus is highly contagious. The illness is commonly spread from person to person by hand-to-hand contact and by surfaces contaminated with feces or vomit. To prevent the spread of norovirus:
- Wash your hands thoroughly and often with soap and warm water.
- Wash your hands before eating/preparing food and after using the bathroom or diapering/toileting a small child.
- Thoroughly clean contaminated surfaces such as toilets, doorknobs, countertops, and changing tables of any debris, then disinfect by using a bleach-based household cleaner.
- Wash clothing and linens in hot, soapy water to remove the virus.
Did you know? Heart Disease is a leading cause of death in Black Americans
In February, we observe both Black History Month and American Heart Month. While heart disease can impact anyone, it is the leading cause of death for Black Americans. Black American adults are more likely to have high blood pressure and less likely to have their blood pressure under control. Black American adults are also more likely have health conditions that are risk factors for developing heart disease, such as diabetes or obesity.
Social determinants of health are a factor for these racial inequities. Whether someone has affordable and nutritious food in their community, can regularly see a trusted healthcare provider, or has chronic stress (either from their environment, racism, or community violence), impacts their chances to be diagnosed with, treat, or manage hypertension or heart disease.
Heart disease, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol, along with lack of physical activity and obesity increase the risk of having a heart attack or stroke. Some risk factors can be addressed to help prevent or delay heart disease and its complications.
Find additional nutrition resources or seek support with chronic disease management through Health 360.
Join our team!
There are some jobs open right now working for Oakland County. Health and Human Services is currently hiring Public Health Nurses, part-time Hearing and Vision Tech, student positions and more! Visit www.oakgov.com/jobs to learn more about these positions and to apply.
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.
|
