Health News
Respiratory Illnesses
This year an earlier and higher rate of respiratory illness for the 2022-23 cold and flu season is in play. This includes multiple viruses such as Influenza (flu), COVID, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). In addition to high rates of illness, the healthcare system is impacted by a high number of visits and hospitalizations.
The California Department of Public Health issued a press release on 11/9/22, which can be viewed here: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/OPA/Pages/NR22-160.aspx
Influenza cases continue to rise and while cases of RSV are starting to decline statewide, circulation continues at high levels locally and it is of concern especially for infants, young children, and older adults. To learn more about RSV, click HERE.
You can help protect yourself and your loved ones by keeping up on available vaccinations and practicing preventive measures like washing your hands, cleaning surfaces, wearing a mask in indoor spaces, maintaining a healthful diet, exercise, and sleep routine, and staying home when feeling unwell.
We will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves.
MPX (monkeypox)
Tuolumne County Public Health is monitoring the monkeypox (MPX) situation and is coordinating with local and State partners. The first case of MPX was identified in a Tuolumne County resident in early September. Cases are declining statewide and the risk to the general public remains low.
Tuolumne County Public Health is offering the Jynneos vaccine for those who are at highest risk as identified by the CDC and CDPH, while supplies last. Those who are in an eligible category and are interested in a vaccination, appointments can be made at www.MyTurn.ca.gov
For more information on MPX, including the latest data and prevention information click here: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/monkeypox.aspx
Opioid Safety Warning
Fentanyl (an extremely potent and dangerous synthetic opioid) continues to be a major contributor to drug overdoses in California, including among youth. The California Department of Public Health recently issued a warning regarding an increase in extremely dangerous drugs which could easily be mistaken for candy. Please click here to read the alert:
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/sapb/Pages/Rainbow-Fentanyl-Alert.aspx
Health Fair 2022 Canceled
The Health Fair Committee has announced that the annual health fair will again be canceled for 2022 due to the ongoing challenge of available resources. Residents are encouraged to talk with their healthcare provider about getting important health screenings.
Air Quality and Wildfires Health Information
Please follow this link to find resources and information on air quality related to wildfires: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/wildfires
Protect Yourself from Vector Borne Illness
Mosquitoes, Ticks, and Fleas. The pesky insects not only cause itchy bumps, but can also carry disease. Mosquitoes can transmit West Nile Virus, Chikungunya, Dengue, and Zika Viruses. Ticks can cause Lyme disease and other illness, and Fleas can carry Plague.
Your best protection against being bitten, are to follow these 5 D's:
Dawn & Dusk- Avoid being outdoors during these times; prime feeding time for mosquitoes.
Dress- Wear loose clothing that covers your skin.
DEET- DEET is effective against mosquitoes, biting flies, fleas, and ticks. DEET products should not be used on infants under 2 months of age.
Drain- Eliminate or reduce standing water that can produce mosquitoes.
For more information, call Tuolumne County Environmental Health at (209) 533-5651
or Tuolumne County Public Health at (209) 533-7401.