 Friday, August 25, 2023
A 'fare' to remember: Health department
dedicated to food safety
 Food inspector David Reed conducted several tests to make sure the chicken served by a vendor met safety requirements for diners at the Kentucky State Fair.
From mac and cheese balls to funnel cakes, the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness (LMPHW) food inspectors have seen it all at the Kentucky State Fair. So far, they have conducted around 850 inspections of food vendors.
More than 300 food service employees completed the food safety course, which is the highest number of participants that LMPHW's food safety team has seen in years.
“This is all happening while they are doing routine inspections at restaurants around Louisville Metro,” said LMPHW’s Environmental Health Supervisor Alex DeMunbrun. “Our inspectors are dedicated to working with vendors and restaurant owners, making sure they are properly following all of the safety guidelines that will prevent any foodborne illnesses.”
Next week, the food safety team will be conducting inspections at WorldFest, which will be held from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Sept. 1-4 at the Belvedere. Food vendors can find information about WorldFest’s food service requirements, the online food safety course and how to obtain a temporary food service permit here.
Protect yourself and others from extreme heat
 Extreme heat has maintained a grip on Louisville weather. To prevent risks from excessive heat, individuals should do the following:
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Seek air-conditioning: If your home does not have air-conditioning, seek areas that do, including libraries, shopping malls, community/senior centers, grocery stores, and movie theaters during the warmest period of the day. If you must stay in a home without air-conditioning, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine.
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Avoid strenuous activities: This is particularly true during the hottest time of the day. Individuals who perform strenuous work during the heat of the day are especially at risk. Take more breaks, do less intense activities. Be watchful for symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath.
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Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing: Light colors reflect the sun’s rays better than dark colors, which absorb the heat. Protect the face and head with a wide-brimmed hat.
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Check on family members, neighbors and friends who are vulnerable. Move them to air-conditioned places if possible.
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Drink plenty of fluids: Increase fluid intake even if you are not thirsty.
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Never leave pets or people, especially children and infants, unattended in cars.
If heat risks do occur, cool the body as soon as possible, and call 9-1-1 for symptoms of heat stroke. For guidance about extreme heat, visit our digital library on our Emergency Preparedness webpage to access guides in a variety of languages.
5K walk and event focuses on Black men's health
 The African American Male Wellness Agency is hosting its 2nd Annual Walk To Save Black Lives, a 5K walk and run event that will be held at 7 a.m. Saturday, August 26 at the Norton Sports and Learning Complex, 3029 Muhammad Ali Blvd. Admission is free and open to the public.
The event will feature free health screenings for blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, HIV, STD/STIs, and prostate cancer, emphasizing the importance of prevention and annual check-ups. Most importantly, the event is a proactive response to the alarming fact that Black men die on average 12 years earlier than their white counterparts. By providing access to vital health screenings and promoting wellness, we strive to reduce this gap and improve health outcomes.
The event not only promotes wellness but also promises a day of local vendors, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. If you would like to participate in the walk and run event, be sure to register here or scan the QR code for more information.
Make a difference in public health
 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.
For more information, please email LMPHWCareers@louisvilleky.gov.
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