Here's to Your Health

The North Shore Health Department has scheduled clinics for the Seasonal Flu.  Clinics for the H1N1 Pandemic Flu (Swine Flu) will be scheduled for late fall (probably November) after H1N1 vaccine is received from the federal government.

Clinics at the North Shore Library, 6800 North Port Washington Road are:

• Thursday, September 17, 2009, 10:30 AM -- 1:30 PM
• Wednesday, September 30, 2009, 3:30 PM -- 6:30 PM

Clinics at the Brown Deer Village Hall, 4800 West Green Brook Drive are:

• Wednesday, September 23, 2009, 3:30 PM -- 6:30 PM
• Tuesday, October 6, 2009, 8:00 AM -- 11:00 AM

Costs:

• Regular Flu Shot:  $30.00 cash or check
• Preservative Free Flu Shot:  $35.00 cash or check
• Flu Mist Nasal Spray:  $35.00 cash or check
• Original Medicare that includes Part B:  No cost to patient -- Medicare will be billed.  Medicare Health Plans that are HMO's such as Advantage Plus, Secure Horizon, Humana, etc. are not accepted.

More Infformation about the Seasonal Flu and H1N1 Pandemic Flu is available at http://cdc.h1n1flu.gov and http://www.pandemic.wisconsin.gov.    

August is the perfect time to remind everyone to catch up on their vaccinations.  Children are starting school, older students are entering college, the flu season will soon be here.  Unfortunately, even in the U.S., children and adults alike die every year from vaccine preventable diseases.  Far too many people are complacent about these diseases and they may not understand that being protected from disease through vaccination is a lifelong process. 

Immunization is one of the most significant public health achievements of the 20th century.  Vaccines have eliminated some diseases and vastly reduced the number of cases of many others.  However, it is still important to remember that even though we don't often see some of these diseases, they still exist and can cause disease, disability, and death.  

Vaccines offer safe and effective protection from infectious diseases.  Yet vaccination rates are still below national target levels.  There is concern that some dangerous diseases will re-emerge in the U.S.  For example, cases of pertussis (whooping cough) have been increasing since an all time low in 1981 and there was a significant outbreak in Wisconsin a few years ago. Pertussis is a bacterial disease that usually causes mild illness but can be deadly for infants who can be infected by unvaccinated adults.  It is now recommended that everyone get a Tdap booster between the ages of 11-64 years, especially if there is contact with infants. Tdap includes protection against pertussis as well as tetanus and diphtheria. 

Recent surveys suggest that few Americans know much about infectious diseases and, therefore, do not get vaccinated.  In addition, there is not a strong focus on prevention.  Young adults in particular do not have a strong knowledge base and the CDC is planning more innovative strategies for this population.  Increased vaccination rates would be one way to help control health care costs because it would result in less illness, complications, and hospitalizations. 

Another population group that should be concerned about immunizations is travelers.  Your risk of becoming ill while traveling depends in part on where you are traveling, the length of stay, activities while traveling, your health, and your vaccine history.  Immunization is one of the best forms of protection for all travelers.  Visit the CDC's Travelers' Health website at http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel to learn more about which immunizations are recommended for your trip.

Please take the time to review your own and your family's vaccination history and get needed updates.  More information about vaccine and vaccine preventable disease is available at:  http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines       http://www.nfid.org        http://dhs.wisconsin.gov/immunization               

According to the CDC, only 57.2% of adults are protected against tetanus.  It drops to only 44.1% for those over age 65.  This is surprising given the high fatality rate for the disease and the prevalence of the C. tetani bacteria in the environment.

The tetani bacteria produce spores that are very difficult to kill and are found in the soil and intestines and *** of horses, sheep, cattle, dogs, cats, rats, guinea pigs, and chickens.  The likelihood of tetanus is greatest following deep, dirty puncture wounds where there is little bleeding and an absence of oxygen.  But tetanus has also occurred following other injuries such as burns, scratches, slivers, animal bites, body piercing, and tattooing.  In recent years, minor wounds have caused more cases of tetanus than major wounds.  This is probably because more severe wounds are better managed. 

Almsot all reported cases of tetanus are in persons who either have never been vaccinated or who have not had a booster shot in the preceding 10 years.  The disease is fatal in about 18% of cases in people over age 60.  One or two cases are reported in Wisconsin each year.

So, when was your last booster?  If you have no idea, it is probably time for a tetanus shot.  Otherwise, check your medical records to be sure you are still protected.  A booster is recommended every 10 years -- after 5 if you suffer an injury.  The vaccine also protects against diphtheria, a rare but also dangerous disease.

The CDC recommends that everyone get a single booster dose of Tdap which protects against pertussis (whooping cough) in addition to tetanus and diphtheria.  The vaccine was developed after several pertussis outbreaks in recent years.  You can get this booster if it has been at least two years since your last tetanus shot.  This vaccine is particularly recommended for those who are in frequent contact with infants and children.

Both regular tetanus and Tdap vaccines are available at the Health Department.  The charge for adults is $15.00.  Call 371-2980 to schedule an appointment. 

For additional information about tetanus, visit:  http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/tetanus/default.htm;       http://www.immunize.org/catg.d/p4220.pdf         http://dhs.wisconsin.gov/communicable/factsheets/Tetanus.htm  

There were 1,487 confirmed cases of Lyme disease in Wisconsin last year and state health officials urge everyone to take precautions against tick bites.  People are more likely to be exposed to ticks between May and August when more time is spent outdoors. 

Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria carried by deer ticks which are found in many parts of Wisconsin, including the eastern part of the state.    Early symptoms usually start within a month of exposure and often (but not always) include a "bulls-eye" rash near the site of the tick bite.  The rash expands in size over a period of days or weeks.  During the rash stage, other symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue, stiff neck, muscle and/or joint pain may be present.  Antibiotics are used to treat Lyme disease and are more effective with early treatment.  If left untreated, complications such as meningitis, facial palsy, heart abnormalities, and arthritis can occur within a few weeks to months after infection.

Deer ticks are often hard to see and range in size from a poppy seed to a sesame seed but get much larger after feeding on its host.  It is important to check often for ticks, paying special attention to the head, scalp, armpit, groin, and area behind the knee.  A tick must be attached for at least 24 hours to transmit Lyme disease.  If an attached tick is removed promptly, there is a reduced chance for disease.  If you find a tick, remove it slowly and gently by using a pair of thin-bladed tweezers, grasping it as close to the skin as possible.  Do not use folk remedies like petroleum jelly, nail polish remover, or burning matches as these methods are neither safe nor effective. 

People can take steps to avoid tick bites and reduce the chance of getting Lyme disease:

• Avoid wooded and bushy areas with high grass and leaf litter.  If you are hiking in an area like this, try to stay in the middle of the trail.
• Use effective tick repellents and apply them according to label directions.  Repellents with 20-30% DEET can be used on exposed skin and clothing.  Permethrin repellents can also be used on clothing. 
• Wear clothes that will help shield you from ticks -- a long-sleeved shirt and long pants tucked into socks create a "tick barrier".  Ticks are easier to spot on light colored clothing.
• Carefully perform daily tick checks after being outdoors, even in your own yard.
• Also check your pets for ticks and prevent them from bringing ticks into the home.  There is a Lyme disease vaccine available for pets.

Past infection does provide some short-lived immunity but it is possible to get infected more than once.  There had been a vaccine against human Lyme disease but it is no longer marketed. 

More information about Lyme disease is available at:  http://dhs.wisconsin.gov/communicable/TickBorne/LymeDisease/links.htm       http://cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/lyme/index.htm       http://arthritis.webmd.com/slideshow-lyme-disease?ecd=wnl_lbt_061009         

June is Home Safety Month.  This is a very good time for everyone to survey their home environment for potential safety hazards that could harm any member of the family, youngest to oldest.  Millions of unintentional injuries occur at home and at play every year and they are not accidents.   In fact, today it is widely recognized that injuries are predictable, preventable, and controllable.  Everyone would benefit if Americans started paying more attention to the safety of their environment and made the necessary adjustments.  Consider the following:

• Injuries are the leading cause of death in children ages 19 and younger. 
• Each year, nearly 9.2 million children are seen in emergency departments for injuries and over 12,000 die from their injuries.
• The estimated annual cost of unintentional child injuries is nearly $300 billion. 
• Injuries due to falls were the leading cause of nonfatal injury.

The leading causes of child injury include burns, drownings, falls, poisonings, and road traffic injuries.  Every parent wants to protect their children from harm and to keep them safe.  Most of the time, all it would take is increased awareness of the potential for injury and what can be done to prevent it. 

We should not forget about ourselves or older family members who are also vulnerable to the potential life-altering impact of unintentional injury.  One likely contributing factor of injury is the habit of "multi-tasking" when our attention is not focused on what we are doing or we are trying to do too many things at once.  Everyone could probably slow down a little and focus more.  After all, each and everyone of us probably has a memory of a preventable injury or "near miss".  Please consider:

• Every day in the U.S., 55 people die of a home injury and another 58,000 are injured enough to seek medical care.
• In the U.S., 1/3 of adults over the age of 65 fall each year.
• Among the elderly, falls are the leading cause of injury deaths.

Injury prevention is in our own hands and there are many simple steps that can be taken to help ensure safety.  There is a lot of information available, so please take the time to learn more about how to keep your family safe.  It will be time well spent.

http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/hometips        http://www.cdc.gov/Features/HomeSafety        http://www.cdc.gov/safechild        http://www.usa.safekids.org        http://www.cdc.gov/HomeandRecreationalSafety/Index.html        http://www.homesafetycouncil.org    

It is a fact that more boy babies are born than girl babies.  It is also a fact that women outlive men by a little more than five years even though the gap has narrowed in recent years.  And what of the years in between?

72% of men over the age of 20 are overweight (this includes overweight and obese); 31% of men over the age of 20 have high blood pressure; and 24% of men smoke.  Could this possibly have something to do with men's shorter lifespan than women's?  The three leading causes of death for men are heart disease, cancer, and accidents.  It is readily apparent that these causes could be related to lifestyle factors.  While genetics cannot be totally discounted, lifestyle is the much larger determinant of one's longevity and health.

So what's a person to do?  For starters, use Men's Health Week as a springboard to start thinking about yourself or the men in your life and decide to make some changes that will make a difference in overall health.  Quality of life is as important as length of life and even a few small changes can add life to your years as well as years to your life.  See how many of the following tips you can include in your daily life to make it safer and healthier.

• Eat healthy.  Include more fruits and vegetables in a balanced diet to maintain a healthy weight.  Limit foods and drinks high in calories, sugar, salt, fat, and alcohol.
• Be active.  Be active at least 2 and 1/2 hours a week with a variety of activities.  Include activities that strengthen muscles as well as increase breathing and heart rate. 
• Protect yourself.  Wear helmets, seat belts, sunscreen, and insect repellent.  Avoid smoking and breathing second hand smoke.  Wash hands to prevent spreading germs.  Be prepared for emergencies.
• Manage stress.  Balance work, home, and play and get adequate sleep.  Be sure to make time for relaxation and nurturing relationships.
• Get check-ups.  Know what your numbers are -- cholesterol, blood sugar, blood pressure, BMI.  Get regular medical check-ups as both prevention and early detection are important.  See your doctor if you are sick, have pain, notice changes, or have problems with medications.

It is unfortunate that good health is so easily taken for granted.  Choosing a healthy lifestyle that will help preserve health for one's later years need not be difficult.  It just takes some thought and adjustment. 

Check out the CDC website for more information on men's health and healthy living for everyone. 

http://www.cdc.gov     

Summer really will arrive some day and everyone will be spending more time outdoors and in the sun!  While this might be good for improving one's mood, it is not necessarily good for overall health.  Exposure to the sun is a significant risk factor for skin cancer and skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S.  More than one million Americans develop skin cancer every year and one person dies from the disease every hour.  One in five people will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.

For some reason, people are not getting the message about skin cancer or taking steps to minimize their risk. The following numbers suggest that much more can be done in terms of sun protection.

• More than one-third of the U.S. population reported a sunburn in the previous year.
• Only 33% of adults reported usually applying sunscreen with only 7% using an SPF of 15 or higher.
• 18% reported usually wearing some type of fully sun-protective clothing.
• Only 33% usually sought shade.
• Only 9% of high school students report routinely using sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.
• About 9% of teens aged 14-17 years used indoor tanning devices. 

According to the CDC, the best way to prevent skin cancer is to protect oneself from the sun.  When used consistently, sun-protective practices can reduce a person's risk of devloping skin cancer.  It really is possible to still have fun outdoors and decrease your risk.  See how many of these sun safe practices you can add to your daily life.

• Consistently and generously use a water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15.  Use even on cloudy days and re-apply frequently, especially when swimming or sweating.
• Wear protective clothing whenever possible.  This includes a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
• Seek shade when possible, especially betwen 10am - 4pm when the sun's rays are strongest.  If your shadow is shorter than you are, seek shade.
• Protect children from sun exposure.
• Remember that water, snow, sand, and concrete reflect the damaging rays of the sun and can increase your chance of sunburn.
• Avoid tanning beds -- they are not risk free.
• Give yourself a periodic self- exam to look for changes on your skin.  Early detection is important. 

So before you start your favorite outside activity, take a moment to protect yourself from the harmful rays of the sun.  It will be well worth it in the long term.

Visit these websites for more information about sun safety:     http://www.sunsafetyalliance.org          http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/    

http://www.cancer.org               http://www.skincarephysicians.com/skincancernet/index.html

May 18 - 24, 2009 is Recreational Water Illness Prevention Week.  The warmer weather will certainly be followed by many trips to the pool or beach.  So this is a very good time to consider healthy swimming behaviors that include ways to prevent recreational water illnesses and injuries.  These illnesses are spread by swallowing, breathing in vapors of, or having contact with contaminated water in swimming pools, water parks, spas, hot tubs, interactive fountains, lakes, rivers, or oceans.  In addition, injuries at aquatic facilities can occur in or out of the water.

Recreational water illnesses are caused by germs like cryptosporidium, giardia, E.coli, and shigella and are spread by swallowing water that has been contaminated by fecal material.  Pool water is shared with everyone in the pool.  If someone with diarrhea contaminates the water, swallowing the water can make you sick.  The best way to prevent water illness is to keep the germs out of the pool in the first place.  Everyone can help by adopting these healthy behaviors:

• Please don't swim if you have diarrhea.  This is especially important for children in diapers.
• Please don't swallow pool water and try to avoid getting water in your mouth. 
• Please practice good hygiene because germs on your body end up in the water.  Shower before swimming and wash your hands after toileting or changing diapers.
• Please take your kids on bathroom breaks or check diapers often. 
• Please change diapers in a bathroom or a diaper-changing area and not at poolside.
• Please wash your children thoroughly (especially their bottoms) with soap and water before they go swimming. 
• Please teach your children it is not acceptable to "pee in the pool".

While chlorine is effective in killing germs that cause recreational water illness, it does take time to work.  Some germs like crypto are resistant to chlorine and can live in pools for days and even the best maintained pools can spread illness. 

Pool chemicals can cause injury if they are not handled properly.  This applies to both residential and public pool operators.  This type of injury leads to thousands of emergency room visits every year.  Pool chemicals should always be kept in a secure place away from children and animals.  Pool operators should frequently review the manufacturer's directions and follow them accordingly.  Appropriate protective gear should always be worn when using pool chemicals.  Chlorine products should never be mixed with each other, acid, or other substances.

Memorial Day is usually the kickoff for a fun-filled, active summer.  You can certainly enjoy the water while following the above common sense guidelines.  Visit the following website for more information on healthy swimming:  http://www.cdc.gov/healthyswimming

Have a healthy, happy summer!

It has been only several weeks since the H1N1 flu outbreak surfaced but, at times, it probably seems to be much longer.  The topic of this flu is in the news every day and some people are beginning to think "enough already!". 

While it is true that at this time, the outbreak is not as severe or deadly as initial data suggested, the potential was there and still lingers. The people who make the hard decisions must take a cautious approach and we should appreciate that they do.  No one has any immunity to this particular virus as it is a completely new combination of pig, bird, and human viruses and it could continue to mutate.  From the outset, no one knew how things would play out and they still don't know how events will unfold over the next few months.  Some experts are predicting that this virus will be back stronger in the fall and history suggests they may be correct.  But we are fortunate that there have been so many advances in surveillance, communication, and technology that if history is repeated, an outbreak or pandemic can be controlled as much as possible.  Perhaps increased knowledge will help make a pandemic of the future less devastating than a pandemic of the past. 

Who among us can really predict the future?  We must be prepared for any scenario and all levels of government have been doing just that.  The actions taken in response to this newest threat are a result of years of planning and coordination.  But again, the uncertainty involved makes it difficult to implement the "perfect" response plan if there is such a thing.  And, of course, every event serves as a learning experience which could lead to a different response in the future.

The best thing people can do is stay informed and practice good hygiene and daily health habits.  There is absolutely no need to be fearful but everyone really should respect that there are germs "out there" and it is not known when they could evolve to the point of causing serious disruption to life as we know it.  It is recommended that all families be prepared as best they can for different types of emergencies. 

Check out the following websites to stay informed about this constantly changing situation.  And by all means, call us at the Health Department (414-371-2980) if you have additional questions. 

http://www.cdc.gov/H1N1flu          http://www.pandemic.wisconsin.gov         

While there is no need to panic with the recent developments concerning the swine flu, everyone should certainly pay attention.  This is a very good time to review your family's plan for emergencies and to practice basic, common sense disease prevention habits.  It is still too early to predict the path this particular outbreak will take but developments are changing daily.  Stay informed through reliable sources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and tune in to state and local authorities for developments closer to home.  Call us at the Health Department (414-371-2980) if you have questions or concerns. 

Symptoms of swine flu are similar to regular flu symptoms and include sudden onset of fever, cough, sore throat, runny or congested nose.  Some people may also have diarrhea and vomiting.  If you are sick with flu-like symptoms and have had possible exposure through travel to Mexico or where there are known cases or contact with a confirmed case, STAY HOME and call your doctor.  If you do see the doctor, it will take a lab test to confirm swine flu infection.  If someone in your family is ill with flu-like symptoms, limit your exposure as much as possible and stay home yourself.  People are infectious to others for a day before they have symptoms as well as throughout the course of the illness.  Even if you had a flu shot this year, you are not protected against the swine flu as this is a new virus that has developed.  You cannot get swine flu from eating pork. 

Swine flu is spread the way regular flu is spread.   Illness can occur from 1-7 days after exposure.  Good health habits can help prevent infection:

• Avoid close contact (defined as six feet) with people who are sick.  Likewise, if you are sick, please stay home.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and throw it in the trash after use. 
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing.  Alcohol based hand cleaners can also be used.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth as germs are easily spread that way.
• Practice other good health habits by getting plenty of sleep, being physically active, manage stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious foods.

Would you be prepared if the swine flu outbreak turned into a pandemic and control measures were implemented?  For example, how would you provide for your children if schools were closed?  Would you be able to work from home if worksites were closed?  What if public transportation was not available?  Would you have adequate food?  These are just some "food for thought" issues to consider.

Please be assured that the public health infrastructure in Wisconsin and the U.S. is prepared for the worst case scenario and is working very hard on your behalf.  Visit the following websites for reliable, up-to-date information on swine flu.

http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu       http://www.pandemic.wisconsin.gov       

Earth Day is April 22 and everyone should take a moment to appreciate what we have and think what we can do to help protect it.  It should be clear that human health is directly related to the health of the planet and we all share responsibility for our planet.  Even small actions by individuals will add up to make a difference.  After all, can anyone imagine what life would be like without clean air, clean water, no source of energy, not enough food, or an environment free from toxins? 

Earth Day was started by Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson and the first event was held on April 22, 1970.  Senator Nelson wanted to spotlight environmental issues in the political process and wanted to create more public awareness about the need to protect the environment.  He obviously was a man of great vision and could see that we could not continue to neglect and abuse our planet without serious negative effects.  Just open any newspaper and you will likely find some news on climate change, polluted air and water affecting our health, dangerous chemicals in our environment, and so on.  There is need for much improvement.

We should be thankful to Senator Nelson and we can honor his memory and dream by doing our part to help protect our planet.  Celebrate Earth Day and commit to changing behaviors that are harmful to the environment.  Help your families and friends become more aware of the challenges facing our planet and encourage them to also take positive action.  Everyone can do something to help make a difference.  Use Earth Day to restore and give back to your community.  Some simple things you can do: 

• Reduce, reuse, and recycle -- pay attention to product packaging and be less wasteful
• Switch to fluorescent light bulbs
• Do not flush old medicines down the toilet
• Keep your home cooler in winter and warmer in summer
• Walk and bike more -- drive less
• Do not buy bottled water
• Start a rain garden and use a rain barrel
• Compost yard waste
• Take shorter showers
• Insulate your home, water heater, and pipes
• Shop at local farmer's markets
• Calculate your "carbon footprint" to see how your actions affect the planet

Visit these websites to learn more about Earth Day and the importance of respecting our planet: http://www.earthday.gov       http://www.earthday.net

http://www.sierraclub.org/earthday/       http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/ce/eek/earth/makeadifference.htm       http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/emissions/individual.html    

It has long been thought that flushing unused prescription or over-the-counter medications down the toilet was relatively harmless.  This is no longer the case.  Technology has improved and small amounts of pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) are now detectable in the nation's water supply.  Unfortunately, water treatment facilities are not able to remove these substances from the water and everyone has some exposure.  The potential risk to human health is unknown and the issue is being researched.

At present, there are no known human health effects from low-level exposure.  However, several areas of concern include a possible cumulative effect of long-term exposure, the possibility that these compounds may react differently from their intended purpose when they are introduced into the environment, and increased resistance to antibiotics.  A special scenario such as fetal exposure to low levels of medications that a mother would ordinarily be avoiding requires more investigation.  

In addition to antibiotics and steroids, over 100 individual PPCPs have been identified in drinking water as of 2007.  Other medications found in water supplies include antidepressants, blood pressure medications, cholesterol drugs, hormones, and medications used to control epilepsy and bipolar disorder.  It has been suggested that hormones (endocrine disruptors) have affected the form, reproduction, and sex-ratios of some fish that are exposed to higher concentrations in untreated water. 

It makes sense to protect our water supply as much as possible.  While drug components excreted by humans and animals cannot be controlled, disposing of unused medication can be.  DO NOT FLUSH UNUSED MEDICATION DOWN THE TOILET!  The Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) is hosting a MEDICINE COLLECTION DAY on APRIL 18, 2009 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm at Miller Park.  They will accept prescription and over the counter medication, ointments, sprays, inhalers, creams, vials, and pet medications.  They will not accept illegal drugs, biohazardous material, needles/sharps, personal care products (shampoo, soaps, lotions, sunscreens, etc.), or household hazardous waste (paint, pesticides, oil, gas).  Visit the MMSD website at http://www.mmsd.com if you do not live in Milwaukee County for additional collection sites.

If you cannot take advanatage of the Medicine Collection Day, the Office of National Drug Control Policy suggests disposing of unused meds by removing them from their original containers and mixing them with an undesirable substance (cat litter or coffee grounds) or dissolving them in a small amount of water.  Place this mixture in a disposable container with a lid or a sealable bag.  Remove any identifying information from the medicine bottle.  Place all items in another bag and place in the trash. 

Disposing of medicine in the toilet is a form of water pollution and should be avoided.  This is just one small step people can take to help ensure a clean, safe water supply for everyone.  For more information on PPCPs in water, visit these websites:

http://dnr.wi.gov/org/aw/wm/pharm/pharm.htm       http://www.epa.gov/ppcp       http://www.drinktap.org/consumerdnn/Default.aspx?tabid=73

http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=98833

National Public Health Week is April 6-12 with the theme of "Building the Foundation for a Healthy America".  This week is intended to raise awareness nationally and locally of public health's critical role in restoring and ensuring a healthy America.  Public Health is a crucial component of the solution because it affects every facet of our lives:  our nation, communities, workplaces, schools, and homes.

It is true that our nation's health is in poor shape even though we spend more on health care than any other country.  Did you know that . . .?

• A baby born in the U.S. is more likely to die before its first birthday than a child born in almost any other developed country.
• U.S. life expectancy has reached a record high of 78.1 years but still ranks 46th -- behind Japan and most of Europe, as well as countries such as South Korea and Jordan.
• We are among the top 10 countries that have the most people living with HIV/AIDS and it is estimated that one in 20 residents in the nation's capital are HIV positive.
• Health disparities persist.
• The list goes on and on. . . .

Everyone has a role to play and can contribute something to an effective public health foundation.  You can start by recognizing and valuing the way public health affects your life.  Then you can make healthy choices every day that will enhance not only your health but the overall health of the larger community.  Some great public health achievements over the past decades are:

• Vaccination programs have greatly reduced the incidence of disease, complications, and death.
• Seat belt campaigns have reduced the number of injuries and deaths from traffic crashes.
• Workplaces are safer.
• Communicable diseases are prevented and controlled.
• Deaths and disability from heart disease and stroke have been reduced.
• Foods are safer and healthier.
• Mothers and infants are healthier.
• Availability of family planning has increased.
• Oral health has improved thanks to fluoridation of drinking water.
• Tobacco prevention and control efforts have resulted in decreased smoking and an increase in the number of smokefree environments.

The staff at the North Shore Health Department is proud to be a part of the public health infrastructure that helps ensure our community's health.

Visit the following websites to learn more about what public health:  http://www.apha.org       http://www.wpha.org      

March 24 is DIabetes Alert Day and everyone should take notice.  More than 57 million Americans have pre-diabetes. This is a condition where blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not yet diabetes.  Add in the number who have already been diagnosed with diabetes and the number is staggering.   Consequences of this chronic disease can be devastating not only in potential premature death but also in quality of life prior to death.  People with diabetes suffer higher rates of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, kidney disease, blindness, as well as many other types of complications. 

Ignoring diabetes is risky business.  Recent research has shown that even during pre-diabetes, some long-term damage may already be occurring in the body, especially in the heart and circulatory system.  Before people develop type 2 diabetes, they almost always have pre-diabetes.  Research has also shown that if you take action to manage your blood glucose during pre-diabetes, you can delay or even prevent type 2 diabetes from ever developing. 

Whether you are in a pre-diabetes or diabetes stage or simply want to prevent type 2 diabetes altogether, there are things you can do to manage blood glucose.  At the top of the list is adopting a healthy lifestyle.  Changing habits need not be difficult if you make small lifestyle changes one step at a time over months and years.    Fortunately, only a few small changes can have a huge impact on your health. 

Better nutrition (and weight loss if needed) plus increased activity are critical areas of focus in the prevention of diabetes.  Setting realistic goals will help you get started.   Add more fruits and vegetables to your daily diet and decrease your daily intake of calories a small amount.  Plan to lose just 5 or 10 pounds with a goal of keeping those pounds off.  Aim for 30 minutes of any physical activity you enjoy for most days of the week.  The goal is to just move -- it need not be strenuous exercise although that also has benefit.  Just remember to start with baby steps and gradually increase levels of activity over time.

So, set a start date and promise yourself to take charge of your health by eating healthier and moving more.  It's a sure bet that you would not regret it.

Visit these websites for more information on the prevention of diabetes:  http://www.diabetes.org          http://www.cdc.gov        http://www.shapeup.org          

Friday, February 6, is Go Red for Women day.  This is a day set aside to highlight that heart disease is the #1 killer of women and that women can do much to reverse the trend.  Everyone, women (and men, too!) can take steps to reduce their risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke.  These diseases are largely preventable and need not take much more effort than living a healthier lifestyle, day by day. 

There are multiple risk factors for heart disease that can be controlled or treated:

• High Cholesterol -- High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease and it has no symptoms.  This is why it is so important to be tested and learn what your cholesterol numbers are and do something to lower them if that is indicated.
• High Blood Pressure -- High blood pressure (hypertension) makes the heart work harder than it normally would and it, too, usually has no symptoms.  Over the course of a lifetime, this extra work places a lot of strain on the heart.  Everyone should have their blood pressure checked and understand what the numbers mean.  Blood pressure less than 120/80 is recommended for all adults, regardless of age.
• Stop Smoking -- Smoking is the most preventable cause of death in the U.S.  Fortunately, when someone does stop smoking, the body starts to repair itself in the first twenty minutes.  Reducing risk for many types of cancer is a bonus! 
• Get Physically Active -- Inactive people are much more likely to develop heart disease.  So get off the couch and find activities you like to do and do them for 30 minutes a day for most days of the week.  Something as simple as walking can provide incredible benefits and is an excellent place to start.  Once you get going, get a pedometer and aim for 10,000 steps a day.  This really is not as difficult as you might think.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight -- If you are carrying extra pounds around, you are placing extra burden on all your body's systems from your heart to your joints to your lungs.  So get yourself and family on track to a healthy weight -- you would not regret it. Combining better nutrition with increased activity will help you reach a weight loss goal and will help keep your cholesterol and blood pressure within normal limits.
• Prevent Diabetes -- Type 2 diabetes is related to lifestyle and is largely preventable.  People with diabetes have a greater chance of developing heart disease or having a stroke.  Those with diabetes should do all they can to control it and those at risk should do what they can to prevent it; i.e., lose weight and increase activity.
• Stress -- We all know that stress is a part of life so it is very beneficial to learn how to manage it.  Too much stress over a long period of time can contribute to health problems in some people.  Activity, weight management, adequate sleep, and not smoking all help reduce stress. 

Of course, as in many things, there are some things you can't control -- your age, gender, heredity, and race.  However, living a healthy lifestyle can help offset the things you cannot change. 

Please take a moment on Friday (or anytime for that matter) to reflect on your heart health and make a life-long commitment to yourself and your family to do all you can to make sure you are as healthy as you can be.  Learn more about heart disease by checking out these websites:  http://www.goredforwomen.org       http://www.cdc.gov/women/heart       http://americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3035374       http://www.shapeup.org       

And remember to WEAR RED on Friday!

There has been much in the news lately about the foodborne illness outbreak of salmonella infection related to contaminated peanut butter.  While hundreds of people have become sick in this particular incident and some have died, this is but the tip of the iceberg in terms of how many people are affected every year by foodborne illness.  The CDC estimates that 76 MILLION people in the US get sick by some type of foodborne illness every year.  Of these, 325,000 are hospitalized and 5,000 people die.  Most foodborne illness is not outbreak related and most is not diagnosed. 

The most likely source of foodborne illness is raw or undercooked foods of animal origin -- meat, poultry, shellfish, eggs, unpasteurized milk.  However, raw fruits and vegetables can also be a source.  Washing can decrease contamination but not totally eliminate it. 

Everyone is at risk of foodborne illness but some are particularly vulnerable.  For example, pregnant women, the elderly, those with weakened immune systems, and infants are at higher risk of complications from foodborne illness.  Everyone should do what they can to reduce risk by practicing safe food handling practices and making appropriate choices when dining out and grocery shopping.  Food safety requires major effort and is the responsibility of many people from the farmer to the person in the kitchen preparing food -- even if it is you.

Some ways to reduce risk in your own kitchen are:

• COOK food thoroughly.  Heat meat to an internal temperature of 165 degrees.  Refrigerate food in shallow containers before it cools to 150 degrees.
• SEPARATE meat, fish, and poultry from other foods and preparation tools to avoid cross contamination. 
• CHILL foods quickly to 40 degrees or less.
• CLEAN and sanitize all counters, containers, and utensils that come into contact with food.  Wash hands before handling food and frequently during food preparation.
• REPORT suspected and confirmed cases of foodborne illness to your local public health department so an investigation can be started to determine if it is outbreak related.

If you suspect foodborne illness, call your doctor if:

• You have a fever over 101.5 taken orally.
• You have blood in the stool.
• You suffer from prolonged vomiting.
• You have signs of dehydration such as decreased urination, dry mouth and throat, dizziness.
• You have diarrhea lasting more than three days.

Ask your doctor to order a stool sample test to look for pathogens.  It can take up to three or more days for symptoms to appear after exposure and it is not necessarily from the last meal you ate.  Many variables are involved in foodborne illness and symptoms from most infections take at least twelve hours to surface.  Several people can eat the same food but not everyone will become sick. 

Be observant when dining out and order meat well-done and not undercooked.  Pay attention to the cleanliness of the establishment -- if it is not clean where patrons can see, it is probably not clean in areas not visible to the patrons.  Inspections of restaurants in the City of Milwaukee (does not include suburbs) can now be reviewed online.  So check out your favorite restaurant before you patronize it at either of these websites:  http://www.jsonline.com/watchdog/dataondemand/33609219.html       http://itmdapps.ci.mil.wi.us/cehri/faq.jsp#food_establishments

Additional information about foodborne illness is available at the following websites:  http://www.fightbac.org       http://www.fda.gov       http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/foodborneinfections_g.htm  

The start of another new year usually brings a sense of hope, promise, and resolve to "Have a Happy New Year".  It is probably safe to say that health status could have a significant impact on one's level of happiness.  And it is important to recognize that health status is not determined by genetics alone.  The lifestyle choices of everyday life are just as important as genetics in determining health status.

Frankly, the numbers are getting frightening.  Twenty-four million Americans have diabetes.  One out of four people aged 60 or older has the disease.  Another 57 million people, 40% of those aged 40 to 70, have pre-diabetes.  And now teenagers and children are being diagnosed with diabetes.  When are Americans going to get the message that they can actually prevent diabetes and other chronic diseases?  At the very least, progression can be slowed and complications minimized which would improve quality of life.  And who doesn't want to have a nice, healthy life?  It is a worthy goal and although it takes some effort, it need not be too difficult.

So, what's a person to do?  Very simply, weight management and physical activity are key elements of a healthy life.  Being overweight and sedentary increases the risk of many diseases and health conditions.  In Wisconsin, 2 of 3 adults are overweight or obese.  Even a small weight loss can make a difference.  Small changes made over time will be more likely to become part of your daily routine.  Gradually include better nutrition and more activity into your life.  In time, you will probably wonder why you waited so long! 

So let 2009 be the year you actually take charge of your health and your future.  Do not underestimate the importance of making healthy choices in daily life.  Resolve to make the changes you know should be made.  Resolve to improve your health and your family's health.  Think of lifestyle changes as an investment in your future and recognize that you and your family are worth it!

There is so much information out there about healthy living that it is hard to choose.  But for starters, check out the following websites.  They all have many very good links.

http://cdc.gov/HealthyLiving/         http://dhs.wisconsin.gov/health/physicalactivity/ToolCalcs.htm        http://www.shapeup.org/shape/index_shape.php    

http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=1200009        http://www.cancer.org/docroot/PED/ped_3.asp?sitearea=PED    

Everyone is so busy with preparations for the holidays -- so much to do, people to see, food to eat!  How to manage it all? 

First of all, do what you can to STAY HEALTHY.   

• Get a flu shot if you haven't already done so.  It's NOT too late -- peak flu season is January through February. 
• Wash your hands often. 
• Stay home if you are sick. 
• Get adequate sleep and manage stress.
• Stick to your regular activity/exercise routine.  Get out for walks if nothing else but watch out for icy spots.
• Maintain your weight and don't gain.  This does not have to be too difficult if you balance your intake of calories with calories burned through activity. 
• Make healthy food choices -- plenty of fruits and vegetables and less fat and sweets.  You will feel better, sleep better, and accomplish more.
• Practice safe food handling in the kitchen and remember raw cookie dough CAN make you sick.  (Raw eggs can harbor salmonella.)
• Spend within your budget.  Nobody needs additional financial stress in these economic times.
• If you don't want to do something, don't do it.  Does anyone really need twelve different kinds of cookies?
• Begin planning ahead for lifestyle changes that will help you be healthy in 2009.

Check out these websites for additional tips for healthy holidays:  http://www.cdc.gov/Features/HealthyHolidays/          http://www.webmd.com/diet/healthy-holidays-8/default.htm    

All of us at the North Shore Health Department wish all of you good health over the holidays and through the coming year!

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has designated the week of December 8-14 as National Influenza Vaccination Week.  In fact, the 9th of December is Children's Vaccination Day.  This announcement is designed to highlight the importance of flu vaccination.  It is not too late to protect yourself and your family.  While there has already been sporadic flu activity in Wisconsin, the peak incidence of flu typically occurs in January and February before tapering off in March. 

The flu is a highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract and it can be a serious illness.  The flu kills more Americans every year than all other vaccine-preventable diseases combined.  Symptoms can include fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and muscle aches.  Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are also common symptoms in children.  Flu is often confused with a common cold but flu symptoms are usually more severe and complications can result in death.  Children have the highest chance of getting sick from the flu because their immune systems are less developed. 

It is recommended that everyone over the age of six months get a flu shot.  Call the North Shore Health Department at 371-2980 to schedule an appointment or if you have questions about the flu vaccine.  There is a good supply of thimerosal free vaccine available for children (and adults) if you are concerned about the preservative.   

More information about the flu and immunization is available at:  http://www.cdc.gov/flu          http://www.familiesfightingflu.org          http://www.ecbt.org        

November 20th is the 33rd Great American Smokeout sponsored by the American Cancer Society.  Smokers are encouraged to stop smoking for at least one day, but, of course, the hope is that they will quit for good.  By now, everyone must be aware that smoking is a very dangerous habit with devastating health consequences.  Even the tobacco companies admit this. 

Among current U.S. adult smokers, 70% report that they want to quit completely.  In addition, more than 54% of current high school smokers in the U.S. have tried to quit smoking within the preceeding year.  If you are among either of these groups, please choose a quit date (the 20th would be a good choice) and join the ranks of former smokers.  Perhaps thinking of your loved ones will help motivate you or if nothing else, think of the money you are literally burning up.  Cigarettes cost an average of $5.86 in Wisconsin and it adds up fast.  Who couldn't use a few extra dollars in these economic times?  Whatever the motivation, please take the steps to quit whether it's for one day or a lifetime.  In all likelihood, you will appreciate the benefits of being a former smoker and want to continue on this path. 

There are some people who have a more difficult time quitting smoking than others.  Nicotine is a powerful drug and people respond differently.  However, there are more help aids now than ever before and people are achieving success.  In addition to different types of medications, counseling and other programming are available.  The important thing is to NOT give up if there is a relapse.  Set a new quit date with more determination and go at it again. Be sure to contact the Wisconsin Quit LIne (1-800-784-8669) to help increase your chance of success.

More information about quitting smoking is available at:

http://www.WiQuitLine.org          http://www.cancer.org          http://www.cdc.gov/Tobacco/media_communications/calendar/2008/nov_pressrelease.htm