Henry & Stark County Health Department

The staff of the Henry and Stark County Health Departmentıs announce that June 15 - 21 has been designated National Menıs Health Week.

Though the life expectancy gap between men and women has shrunk to 5.2 years, the narrowest since 1946 - men still need to pay more attention to their bodies. Why? Well, men tend to:

* smoke and drink more than women, and generally lead less healthy lifestyles.

* not seek medical help as often as women.

* join in fearless, risky, and dangerous behaviors more often than women.

The Health Departments note that as many people consider health care today; the ideas of prevention and early detection of disease will become increasingly important.

When we encourage an attitude towards disease prevention in the minds the American public; we also need to stress the importance of regular visits to their health care provider. This fact is especially important when we view the subject of menıs health.

To illustrate this point the Department staff notes the following

statistics:

* Women visit the doctor 150 percent as often as men enabling them to detect health problems in their early stages.

* Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, afflicting 1 out of every 11 American men and killing 34,000 men every year. For African-American men, the rate of affliction is even worse; African-American men have the highest incidence of prostate cancer in the world.

* If prostate cancer is detected early it can be treated effectively, but early prostate cancer has no symptoms.

* Significant numbers of male related health problems; such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and colon cancer could be detected and treated if menıs awareness of these problems was more pervasive.

* Appropriate use of tests such as Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) exams, blood pressure screenings, cholesterol checks, etc., in conjunction with clinical examination can result in the detection of many of problems in their early stages and increase survival rates to nearly 100%.

The Department reminds residents that they offer the PSA blood test in conjunction with a indepth Chem Screen/CBC basic blood profile. Cost for the basic blood profile is $45, and the PSA is an additional $45.

The PSA, for males age 50 and over, is a blood test to be used as a screening tool by physicians and should only be used in conjunction with a doctor's physical exam.

Fasting is required for the basic blood profile. Therefore, participants should not eat or drink anything other than water for 8-12 hours prior to the blood draw. Test results will sent by mail to participants snd their physicians. Appointments for the blood draws may be made by calling the Health Department at 852-5272.

The Henry and Stark County Health Department staff announces that their Clinical services program is offering special Sports and School Physical Exam clinics throughout the summer.

Clinics will be held at their Main Office, Rt. 78 South, Kewanee and at their West Office, 103 1st St., Colona.

The clinic will offer area Junior and Senior High School Athletes, Freshmen, Sixth Graders, Kindergartners, and Preschoolers school or sports physicals. In order to encourage parents to call early for their appointments; and thereby avoid the end of the summer rush, the Health Department will offer the exams at a cost of $20 per person in June; $25.00 per person in July; $30.00 per person in August; and $35.00 per person in September.

Also, the Department reminds area parents to be sure your children are up-to-date on their required immunizations before school begins this fall.

Immunizations, blood lead screenings, and other needed lab tests are also available to participants at additional charges.

Please note, appointments which are necessary, may be made by contacting the Health Department at (309) 852-5272 - Kewanee Office or 792-4011-Colona Office.

The Stark County Citizens' Mental Health Task Force, Petersen Healthcare and the Stark County Health Department remind area residents that they are once again sponsoring a special Senior Living Series.

The Senior Living Series is a schedule of informational programs aimed to give the lastest, up-to-date information, that matters, to our area senior population.

The June program will be "Eating for Healthy Living" by Jill Crowder RD, LDN of Petersen Healthcare. This entertaining and insightful program will be held Wednesday, June 24th from 2:00pm to 4:00pm at the Bradford Courtyard Estates.

Future programs will include: "Medication 101" on Wednesday, June 24th.

Free gifts and a door prize will be given out at each session. As an added incentive, Petersen Healthcare is offering a special Deluxe Door Prize at the September session for anyone who has perfect attendance at all four Senior Living sessions.

In order to promote the importance of senior health and wellness, the Senior Living Series will also be offering complimentary health screenings to those attending the program.

For more information about the upcoming Stark County Senior Living Series you may contact Carrie Titus at the Stark County Health Department at (309) 852-3115

Kurt Kuchle, Director of Environmental Health Services with the Henry and Stark County Health Departments, adds packets of Mosquito Growth Inhibitor to an abandoned pool. Eliminating mosquito breeding sites in our environment is just one of the measures local residents can do to cut down on the mosquito population this summer. The Health Department staff notes June 21-27 as National Mosquito Control Awareness Week.

How's the song go? "Summer time and the living is easy." That is until you're bothered by that old seasonal nemesis the mosquito. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments announce that June 21-27 has been designated National Mosquito Control Awareness Week.

In honor of this national observance the Health Department staff offers the following information on the summer mosquito season and the potential health risks associated with mosquito bites. In particular we offer the latest information on West Nile Virus (WNV).

Linda DeMay, RN Communicable Disease Nurse with the Health Department states, "During 2008, the State of Illinois had 20 human cases of West Nile Virus and one fatality."

What is West Nile Virus (WNV)? West Nile Virus (WNV) is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito that has picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird. Most people with the virus have not clinical symptoms of illness, but some may become ill three to 15 days after the bite of an infected mosquito. The first human case in Illinois is not usually reported until July or later.

Only about two people in 10 who are bitten by an infected mosquito will experience any illness. Illness from West Nile is usually mild and includes fever, headache and body aches, but serious illness, such as encephalitis and meningitis, and death are possible.

What Can I Do To Prevent WNV? The best way to prevent West Nile disease or any other mosquito-borne illness is to reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home and to take personal precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

* When you are outdoors, use insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient. Follow the directions on the package.

* Many mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn. Be sure to use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants at these times or consider staying indoors during these hours.

* Make sure you have good screens on your windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.

* Get rid of mosquito breeding sites by emptying standing water from water pots, buckets and barrels. Change the water in pet dishes and replace the water in bird baths weekly. Drill holes in tire swings so water drains out. Keep children's wading pools empty and on their sides when they aren't being used.

Of special note, Kurt Kuchle, Health Department Director of Environmental Health, states, "Abandoned pools that are a part of a foreclosed property are becoming a public health issue. These neglected pools may become the number one breeding sites for the species of mosquito that carries the West Nile virus. Local residents are asked to report abandoned pools to your local code enforcement or Health Department. They can take temporary control measures.

What should I Do If I Think I Have WNV? Milder WNV illness improves on its own, and people do not necessarily need to seek medical attention for this infection though they may choose to do so. If you develop symptoms of severe WNV illness, such as unusually severe headaches or confusion, seek medical attention immediately. Severe WNV illness usually requires hospitalization. Pregnant women and nursing mothers are encouraged to talk to their doctor if they develop symptoms that could be West Nile Virus.

For more information on West Nile Virus contact the Health Department at

(309) 852-0197 (Henry) or 852-3115 (Stark)

The Environmental Health Division of the Henry and Stark County Health Departments announces that June has been designated National Home Safety Month. The Health Department, in conjunction with the Home Safety Council, promotes Home Safety Month in order to educate and empower both families and businesses to take actions that will make homes safe.

Ask Americans where they feel safest and most will say their own home.

However, unintentional injuries in the home result in nearly 21 million medical visits on average each year."

We hope to bring attention to the serious problem of preventable home injuries and its leading causes: falls, poisonings, fires and burns," says Kurt Kuchle, Health Department Environmental Health Supervisor. "Just a few simple steps can dramatically reduce the dangers in most homes and may even make a lifesaving difference."

Throughout Home Safety Month, the Home Safety Council encourages the public to consider their home's danger areas and take some simple steps to minimize their risk from potential injuries, even death.

Fires/Burns:

* Instill smoke alarms on every level of your home and in or near all bedrooms, and test the batteries at least once a month so you'll know they are working.

* Plan a home fire drill and practice it at least twice a year. Memorize the fire department's emergency telephone number.

* Use safety covers in electrical outlets and anti-scald devices in faucets in homes with young children.

Falls:

* Make sure all porches, hallways and stairwells are well lit. Use the maximum safe wattage in light fixtures. (Maximum wattage is typically posted inside light fixtures.)

* Use a non-slip mat, or install strips or decals in bathtubs and showers.

* Install grab bars in bath and shower stalls.

Poisonings:

* Keep medicines and household chemicals and cleaners up high, out of the reach of children, preferably in a locked cabinet.

* Install a carbon monoxide detector near sleeping areas in the home.

* Put your poison control center number (1-800-222-1222) near every phone.

Visit the Home Safety Resource Center at www.homesafetycouncil.org to review and download free information, including safety checklists and additional tips to help safeguard your family.

Warm summer days mean more outdoor activity. It also means increased exposure to the sometimes harmful effects of the sun. With this in mind, the Health Departments would like to alert area residents to the following facts on skin cancer.

The incidence of skin cancer in the United States has risen 1500% over the past fifty years. Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers. It accounts for nearly half of all cancers in the United States. It is also anticipated that more than 1 million people will be diagnosed with skin cancer this year.

About 90% of these skin cancers are thought to be due to sun exposure.

Because sun exposure can be avoided, limited or protected against, the majority of skin cancers are preventable.

The Health Department staff notes, that there are three main types of skin cancer:

Basal Carcinoma - the most common form, is a slow growing cancer that usually begins with a small, shiny, pearly bump or nodule on the head, neck or hand. If left untreated, the original nodule can bleed, crust over, only to open again. This kind of cancer usually does not become life- threatening, but it can continue to grow, reach underlying tissues and destroy them.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma - may start as nodules, or red patches with well defined outlines. Typically, these develop on the lips, elsewhere on the face or on the tips of ears. Unlike basal cell carcinoma, they can become quite large if not treated.

And finally, Malignant Melanoma - is the least common but most serious of the major skin cancers. It may originate in or near a mole. Typically, it appears as a change in size, color, shape or texture of a mole.

Approximately 62,000 new cases are diagnosed every year, and each year about 10,000 patients die of melanoma. If discovered early enough, melanoma is completely curable. However, if it is not treated promptly, it can spread throughout the body.

Anyone can develop skin cancer, but higher risk is found in caucasians with red or blonde hair, blue or green eyes, fair skin that burns or freckles easily, and those with a family history of skin cancer. Since both cumulative and intermittent sun exposure are related to the development of skin cancers and melanoma; persons who work indoors but spend weekends or summers in the sun, and persons who have a history of frequent or severe sunburns are at a higher risk for melanoma development.

Tanning booths, a popular means of getting a tan without sun, emit ultraviolet-A (UVA) rays and can cause sunburn, premature aging of the skin, cataracts, and can increase the risk of skin cancer.

To prevent the development of skin cancer we recommend the following:

* Avoid sun exposure between 10am-4pm. * Wear a hat, tightly woven clothing and sunglasses. * And, before sun exposure apply a sunscreen with a SPF of 15 or more.

For more information on skin cancer prevention, call the Health Department at (309) 852-0197 or 792-4011 (Henry) or 852-3115 (Stark)

The Henry and Stark County Health Departments announce that they have received the shipment of antiviral supplies from the Strategic National Stockpile from the federal government. These supplies have been made available to area doctors and healthcare providers, and will be used in the event of cases of H1N1 (swine flu) in Henry and Stark Counties.

Gail Ripka, Health Department administrator, states, "If needed, the use of these supplies will follow the guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH).

At this time, no confirmed cases have been identified in Henry and Stark Counties. The Health Department continues to work with local hospitals and healthcare providers, organizations, state and federal health officials, and local government agencies to limit the spread of this disease and safeguard the health of our communities.

Gail Ripka, Health Department Administrator, notes, "At this time we are still urging all residents to take preventative measures."

Ripka adds, "The best way to protect yourself and your family is by knowing the facts about H1N1 influenza and practicing infection control measures."

The precautions to prevent the transmission of the H1N1 flu strain are the same as those to prevent seasonal influenza: CLEAN your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand gel. COVER your cough and sneeze. If you get sick, CONTAIN your germs by staying home and limit contact to others to avoid infecting them. If you have the symptoms of fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, and fatigue, contact your doctor.

In addition, the Health Department offers the following special consideration for administering to children with flu symptoms. Aspirin or aspirin-containing products (e.g. bismuth subsalicylate - Pepto Bismol) should not be administered to any confirmed or suspected ill case of H1N1 virus infection aged 18 years old and younger due to the risk of Reye syndrome. For relief of fever, other anti-pyretic medications are recommended such as acetaminophen or non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Stay informed. The Health Department is continually working with the IDPH and CDC to keep area residents informed about this H1N1 influenza outbreak. For more information on swine flu, visit www.cdc.gov/flu/swine, or call the IDPH Toll Free Flu Hotline at 866-848-2094 (English) or 866-241-2138 (Spanish) 6am to 10pm daily.

The Henry and Stark County Health Departments remind area residents that they continue to work with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to monitor the swine flu outbreak in the United States, Mexico, and abroad in an effort to protect the citizens of Henry and Stark Counties.

Gail Ripka, Health Department Administrator, notes, "The best way to protect yourself and your family is by knowing the facts about swine flu and practicing infection control measures."

Swine influenza, or swine flu, is a respiratory disease most commonly found in pigs. While not often, it is possible for humans to contract swine flu. When this happens, human to human transmission becomes possible, resulting in an outbreak.

The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and other viral infections and may include: fever (greater than 100 degrees Fahrenheit); sore throat; cough; stuffy nose; chills; head and body aches, and fatigue. In addition, some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu.

Ripka adds, "Area residents should consider the following criteria before assuming a respiratory illness may be swine flu."

A suspected case of swine influenza may be considered in persons with acute respiratory illness who:

1) Live in an area where humans cases of swine flu have been identified OR;

2) Have traveled to an area where human cases of swine flu have been identified OR;

3) Have been in contact with ill persons from these areas in the 7 days prior to their illness onset.

The infectious period for a confirmed case of swine flu is defined as 1 day prior to showing symptoms to 7 days after the onset of symptoms.

There are everyday actions people can take to stay healthy.

* Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.

Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

* Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol based hand cleaners are also effective.

* Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

Try to avoid contact with sick people.

* Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.

* If you get sick, the CDC recommends that you stay at home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

Currently there are no travel restrictions; however, on April 27th the CDC issued a travel health warning recommending that travelers postpone all non-essential travel to Mexico until further notice. The World Health Organization and the CDC are holding routine meetings and this may change.

People entering the United States who are experiencing symptoms consistent with swine flu and have traveled to an affected area (seehttp://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/investigation.htm for affected areas), or have been exposed to someone possibly infected with swine flu, during the last 7 days should contact their health care provider and inform them of their symptoms and any recent travel.

If you are returning from travel in Mexico, pay close attention to your health for seven days. If you become sick with a fever plus a cough, sore throat or have trouble breathing during this 10 day period, see a doctor.

Stay home if you are sick unless it is to get medical care.

Stay informed. The Health Department is working with the IDPH and CDC to keep area residents informed about this swine influenza outbreak.

RaeAnn Tucker-Marshall, Public Information Director, with the Henry County Health Department talks with students in Mrs. Holevoet's 2nd Grade class at Visitation Grade School, Kewanee about the importance of good dental care.

Tucker-Marshall has been visited several area schools in honor of National Children's Dental Health Month.