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Hi there,
As the days become warmer and the sun brightens our days once again, I hope you can get outside and enjoy all Oakland County has to offer! If you’re looking for fun ways to soak up some Vitamin D, check out the County’s “Things to Do” blog, featuring parks, trails, farmers markets, recreation features (Pickleball anyone?) and more.
Last month, I mentioned the rising cases of measles in parts of the nation. Shortly after, we reported Oakland County’s first mumps case this year. This is the first reported case in Oakland County since 2022. This serves as a vital reminder of the importance of vaccination to protect our communities. The MMR vaccine remains our best defense against measles, mumps and rubella, offering highly effective protection against these serious diseases and helping to prevent outbreaks. Vaccines are available through Oakland County Health Division offices, most health care providers and pharmacies.
Every May, we also recognize Mental Health Awareness Month, which is as essential to a person’s life as physical health. Friends, family, co-workers, teachers and community members, let’s normalize conversations surrounding mental health. Reducing stigma can encourage people to talk with others and receive the support they need. Whether it’s a kind word, a listening ear, or spending quality time with someone in silence, we can all make a difference. These resources can help you talk about mental health. For a list of mental health and support services in Oakland County, visit our website.
In peace and wellness,
Kate Guzmán, Health Officer, Oakland County Health Division
Connect to vital services on Wellness Wednesdays
Oakland County Health and Human Services, in partnership with the Baldwin Center in Pontiac and several community organizations, announces Wellness Wednesdays. Every Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Oakland County residents in need of health, housing, employment and community resources are invited to enjoy a meal at the Baldwin Center, located at 212 Baldwin Avenue, while connecting with services. Wellness Wednesdays feature rotating services such as housing resources, career and employment support, community navigation, legal aid, Secretary of State services and medical care. Free showers and laundry facilities are limited but also available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please share this information with any organization or person that may benefit from this important event!
May is hepatitis awareness month
Hepatitis is a liver disease caused by a virus. Untreated, it can lead to serious liver problems, like scarring or cancer. Even if you don't have any symptoms, you can spread hepatitis. Getting tested is the only way to know if you have it.
The three most common viruses that cause hepatitis are hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
- The best way to prevent hepatitis A and hepatitis B is by getting vaccinated. You need to get all the shots in the series to be fully protected.
- There isn't a vaccine for hepatitis C, but it can be cured with oral medication (pills). The best way to prevent contracting hepatitis C is to avoid behaviors that can spread the disease, like sharing or reusing needles or other personal items that might come into contact with blood that is infected with the virus.
Hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccines are available at our Health Division clinics in Pontiac and Southfield Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Tuesday from 9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Thursday from 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Walk ins only, no appointment needed. Hepatitis C testing, treatment and guidance are also available. Call 248-858-1280 or email health@oakgov.com for questions about the Hepatitis C program.
Learn basic water safety skills
In 2024, Oakland County experienced a concerning increase in drowning compared to previous years. Drowning can happen in seconds and is often silent. It can happen to anyone, any time there is access to water. This includes pools, lakes, rivers, oceans, and even smaller water bodies like bathtubs. As the temperatures warm up and people take vacations, make sure you and your family prevent drowning.
Check out these tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
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Formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk. Children who have had swimming lessons still need to be supervised in and around water.
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If you have a pool, construct and use a four-sided fence that is at least four feet in height and fully encloses the pool. The fence should separate the pool from the house, with self-closing and self-latching gates.
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Supervise children closely. Designate a responsible adult when children are in or near water.
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Wear a life jacket. Make sure they fit properly and are approved by the U.S. Coast Guard.
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Learn CPR. CPR could save someone's life in the time it takes for paramedics to arrive.
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Avoid drinking alcohol before or during swimming, boating, or other water activities. Alcohol impairs judgment, balance, and coordination.
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Always swim with a buddy. Choose swimming sites that have lifeguards when possible.
Flip the script on aging!
“Flip the Script on Aging” is this year’s theme for Older American Month transforming how society perceives, talks about, and approaches aging. It encourages individuals and communities to challenge stereotypes and dispel misconceptions. This year, join us in honoring older adults’ contributions, exploring the many opportunities for staying active and engaged as we age, and highlighting the opportunities for purpose, exploration, and connection that come with aging.
One key partner in Oakland County doing just this is AgeWays (formerly AAA-1B). This agency serves seniors living in Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair and Washtenaw counties. AgeWays provides a variety of direct services to seniors, like Meals on Wheels and Medicare assistance, but they also offer caregiver resources, fitness and nutrition classes, and transportation services for seniors who require mobility assistance. Explore more local programs and services at your community’s senior center.
Oakland County Older Adult Services supports senior connection to their communities, allowing them to receive key services. Stay active at Oakland County Parks – park entry is free for all with the 2024 mileage approval. Michigan Department of Health & Human Services is helping older adults stay connected and active by partnering with GetSetUp to offer free online learning opportunities for seniors, which span from educational webinars to fitness and cooking classes.
Join our team!
There are some jobs open right now working for Oakland County. Health and Human Services is currently hiring Public Health Nurses, student positions and more! Visit www.oakgov.com/jobs to learn more about these positions and to apply.
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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