Winter weather can bring high winds, snow, ice, and extremely cold temperatures. Responding to those and other potential hazards — such as power outages, fires, floods, and disease outbreaks — is less stressful when emergency plans are in place. This is particularly true for adults and children with disabilities, seniors, and those with temporary or chronic health conditions, language barriers or any other issue that might make mobility difficult in an emergency. That’s why the Division of Public Health (DPH) is encouraging use of the Office of Preparedness’ “Preparedness Buddy Brochure.”
As temperatures drop outside and holiday travel plans to warmer climates heat up, the Division of Public Health (DPH) reminds you that as Zika is being found in an increasing number of countries stopping a mosquito bite is still the best protection against the disease. Packing bug spray and clothing that protects against mosquito bites is as important as packing sunscreen and a bathing suit. Delaware now has 16 Zika cases, including one not previously announced in an adult male with travel back and forth to Puerto Rico. All cases were caused by mosquito bites while traveling abroad. All but one of the Delaware Zika cases are in adults and none is pregnant. Of the 16 Delaware cases, nine are in New Castle County, three are in Kent County and four are in Sussex counties.
With children still munching their way through all of that Halloween candy and looking forward to holiday treats, that means higher sugar consumption which can impact the health of young teeth and even lead to cavities. Research shows dental sealants which shield the back teeth could prevent up to 80 percent of cavities in school-aged children. Yet according to a CDC report, about 60 percent of school children ages 6-11 years don’t get dental sealants. That’s why the Division of Public Health (DPH) is seeking dentists wishing to use their skills to help Delaware’s children in the Seal-A-Smile program which brings the dental office to local schools. Too many children still lack access to regular dental care. The program travels all across the state in the Mobile Dental Clinic, visiting elementary schools to provide preventive dental services to children who do not have dental homes.
Three years after it was created, the Division of Public Health (DPH) Office of Animal Welfare (OAW) celebrates today the accomplishments of OAW, including those of Director Hetti Brown. Brown, who will be leaving Dec. 2, 2016 to move to the Midwest, expressed her appreciation to the OAW team and its many supporters. “It has been a privilege to work with such a great group of people,” said Director Brown. “I have also been lucky to work with so many legislators and animal advocates over the years as we created this office. Moving was a difficult decision and I will miss Delaware. I am confident that OAW will remain strong and that DPH will select an accomplished successor.”
While temperatures will again climb into the 90s this weekend, heat indexes (‘feels-like’ temperatures) are predicted to soar to over 100 degrees. With the National Weather Service’s Excessive Heat Warning continuing through 9 pm. Sunday for New Castle County, the Division of Public Health (DPH) is urging residents statewide to take precautions and preventive measures in the extreme heat conditions. Hot weather can cause heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and severe respiratory conditions, which can be fatal.
Winter weather can bring high winds, snow, ice, and extremely cold temperatures. Responding to those and other potential hazards — such as power outages, fires, floods, and disease outbreaks — is less stressful when emergency plans are in place. This is particularly true for adults and children with disabilities, seniors, and those with temporary or chronic health conditions, language barriers or any other issue that might make mobility difficult in an emergency. That’s why the Division of Public Health (DPH) is encouraging use of the Office of Preparedness’ “Preparedness Buddy Brochure.”
As temperatures drop outside and holiday travel plans to warmer climates heat up, the Division of Public Health (DPH) reminds you that as Zika is being found in an increasing number of countries stopping a mosquito bite is still the best protection against the disease. Packing bug spray and clothing that protects against mosquito bites is as important as packing sunscreen and a bathing suit. Delaware now has 16 Zika cases, including one not previously announced in an adult male with travel back and forth to Puerto Rico. All cases were caused by mosquito bites while traveling abroad. All but one of the Delaware Zika cases are in adults and none is pregnant. Of the 16 Delaware cases, nine are in New Castle County, three are in Kent County and four are in Sussex counties.
With children still munching their way through all of that Halloween candy and looking forward to holiday treats, that means higher sugar consumption which can impact the health of young teeth and even lead to cavities. Research shows dental sealants which shield the back teeth could prevent up to 80 percent of cavities in school-aged children. Yet according to a CDC report, about 60 percent of school children ages 6-11 years don’t get dental sealants. That’s why the Division of Public Health (DPH) is seeking dentists wishing to use their skills to help Delaware’s children in the Seal-A-Smile program which brings the dental office to local schools. Too many children still lack access to regular dental care. The program travels all across the state in the Mobile Dental Clinic, visiting elementary schools to provide preventive dental services to children who do not have dental homes.
Three years after it was created, the Division of Public Health (DPH) Office of Animal Welfare (OAW) celebrates today the accomplishments of OAW, including those of Director Hetti Brown. Brown, who will be leaving Dec. 2, 2016 to move to the Midwest, expressed her appreciation to the OAW team and its many supporters. “It has been a privilege to work with such a great group of people,” said Director Brown. “I have also been lucky to work with so many legislators and animal advocates over the years as we created this office. Moving was a difficult decision and I will miss Delaware. I am confident that OAW will remain strong and that DPH will select an accomplished successor.”
While temperatures will again climb into the 90s this weekend, heat indexes (‘feels-like’ temperatures) are predicted to soar to over 100 degrees. With the National Weather Service’s Excessive Heat Warning continuing through 9 pm. Sunday for New Castle County, the Division of Public Health (DPH) is urging residents statewide to take precautions and preventive measures in the extreme heat conditions. Hot weather can cause heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and severe respiratory conditions, which can be fatal.
