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| Click the news topic to read the release. New releases are available online for the previous 6 months. |
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2009 Public Health Champions of the Year
Jefferson County Public Health’s diverse group of 2009 public health champions demonstrates the power of partnerships to improve health in our populations. Each had a significant contributions made by community partners in 2009 toward the shared interest of a healthier Jefferson County. |
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2010 Public Health Week . . . Building a Healthier Jefferson County One Neighborhood at a Time
Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) invites everyone to celebrate 2010 Public Health Week (April 5-11, 2010) by doing something big or small that improves health. Everyone can contribute to creating a healthier Jefferson County by making healthy changes. If we all make a commitment to improve our personal health and share that commitment with others around us, we can create a ripple effect from neighborhood to neighborhood. Through just one neighborhood that makes its public parks accessible, one municipality that launches a bike-helmet safety project, one group of people who join together to bring fresh foods to school, or one health center that offers a vaccination program, we can create a patchwork of public health successes across Jefferson County. |
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Healthy and Affordable Grocery Shopping
Jefferson County Public Health Nutrition Services offers the following helpful
tips for making grocery shopping healthy and affordable. |
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Basic Food Flavors Recalls Hydrolyzed Vegetable Proteins (HVP)
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment today announced that Basic Food Flavors Inc. of Las Vegas, issued a nationwide recall of all hydrolyzed vegetable proteins (HVP) in powder and paste form that it has produced since Sept. 17, 2009. |
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March is National Nutrition Month . . . "Nutrition from the Ground Up."
Jefferson County Public Health reminds everyone of the importance of making informed food choices and developing good eating and physical activity habits. |
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March Contains Brain Awareness Week
March 15-21, 2010, is Brain Awareness Week (BAW). Founded by the Dana Alliance for Brain Initiatives, the week-long campaign aims to increase awareness of the benefits of brain research while also involving the public in a week long celebration of the brain. |
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Kissing Frogs (Even for Princesses) Is Dangerous to Your Health
Jefferson County Public Health advises residents that while kissing a frog in the movies may have a fairytale ending, in real life it is dangerous for your health. |
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Get Your Heart Into It . . . Reduce Your Risk of Heart Disease
This February, American Heart Month, take some time to consider the health of your heart and begin reducing your risk of heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women and men in the U.S. |
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January is Radon Action Month . . . Take Steps Now to Eliminate Radon Gas From Your Home
Jefferson County Public Health encourages all residents to have their homes tested for radon gas. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is the leading cause of lung cancer deaths among nonsmokers in America and claims the lives of about 500 Coloradans each year. |
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Individuals with Diabetes and Asthma are at Higher Risk for H1N1 Complications . . . Get Vaccinated
Colorado is a state with high asthma and diabetes rates, especially among the Latino and African-American population. Because these chronic diseases increase a person’s risk of experiencing complications from H1N1, all individuals with asthma or diabetes, including individuals of color, should seriously consider getting vaccinated.
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Wash Wash Wash . . . Wash Away Hepatitis A
Jefferson County Public Health Environmental Health Specialists and Public Health Nurses have teamed up to increase awareness and prevention of Hepatitis A in the County, especially among workers who handle and serve food. |
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Quitting, Starting or Changing: 7 Tips for Keeping Your New Years Resolutions in 2010
Jefferson County Public Health reminds everyone that changing negative health behaviors may be the best thing you do for yourself, your family, and other loved ones in 2010. |
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Last Chance for Jefferson County Free H1N1 School-Located Clinics Saturday, December 19, 2009
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Jefferson County Vaccinates Over 8,300 at School-Located Clinics on December 12, 2009
Jefferson County Public Health held the second round of H1N1 school-located influenza immunization clinics today. The JCPH clinics were held at four different Jeffco School sites in partnership with the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) and provided free H1N1 flu vaccinations to all Jefferson County residents. “This truly was a community effort with Jefferson County schools, law enforcement, public health and community volunteers coming together to vaccinate more than 8,300 men, women and children,” said Beth Lipscomb, JCPH Administrative Service Director. “We are proud to be part of such a monumental project to protect residents from influenza.” JCPH has now distributed 105,349 doses of vaccine via private providers and various clinics.
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Jefferson County School-Located Clinics Open to General Public . . . Free Vaccine Available
Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) announced today its school-located H1N1 clinics scheduled for Saturday December 12, 2009 and December 19, 2009 will be open to the general public. The decision to open the clinics to the general public was made in consultation with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and after careful review of JCPH current vaccine distribution and availability. To date, JCPH has received 101,900 doses of H1N1 vaccine and distributed 82,274 doses to its high priority populations via distribution to healthcare providers in the County, special priority group clinics and mass school-located clinics. “Now that the majority of our high risk population has been vaccinated, we are making vaccine available to anyone who wants it,” said Dr. Mark B. Johnson, MD, MPH. |
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Jefferson County Public Health Announces H1N1 Clinic Changes
Jefferson County Public Health, in partnership with Visiting Nurse Association announced today a couple of changes in locations and times for the upcoming series of H1N1 Flu vaccination clinics in Jefferson County. |
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Jefferson County H1N1 Immunization Clinic a Success
Jefferson County Public Health held the first of its series of school-located H1N1 influenza immunization clinics Saturday, November 21, 2009. |
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Talking Turkey - Don't Let Food-borne Illness Spoil Your Holiday
It is estimated that each year in the U.S. 76 million cases of foodborne illness occur, more than 325,000 persons are hospitalized and 5,000 die from foodborne illness. Tracking individual foodborne illnesses and investigating outbreaks of foodborne disease are critical public health functions and Jefferson County Public Health is actively involved in these activities. |
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2009 H1N1 Vaccination Efforts Continue
DENVER – Increasing supplies of 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine in Colorado are allowing several county health departments and other vaccination providers to continue their vaccinations of people at higher risk for flu complications, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. To date, the state has received approximately 250,000 H1N1 doses. It’s estimated a total of 2 million doses are needed in Colorado for all individuals in the priority groups to receive their vaccination. |
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Quit for the Day or for Life
Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) encourages all tobacco users, whether you smoke or use spit tobacco, to Quit for A Day or Quit for Life during the Great American Smokeout, November 19, 2009. This year the County is dubbing the day the “Great Smoke and Spit Out” to encourage those who using chew/spit tobacco to join the challenge to quit. |
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Be a Flu Fighter . . . Volunteers Needed for Jefferson County H1N1 Vaccination Clinics
Jefferson County Public Health and the Visiting Nurse Association are seeking volunteers to assist with upcoming H1N1 school-located vaccination clinics for children and their family members who are considered to be at high risk for complications from 2009 H1N1 influenza. These clinics are for those in the priority groups that are not able to get vaccine through their healthcare provider or who do not have a healthcare provider. |
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Jefferson County Public Health School-Located H1N1 Clinics
Jefferson County--Jefferson County Public Health, in partnership with Visiting Nurse Association, announced today upcoming H1N1 Flu vaccination clinics for children and their family members who are considered at high risk for developing complications from 2009 H1N1 influenza. The H1N1 vaccine is currently available in limited quantities and these clinics are intended for those in the priority groups who are not able to get vaccine through their healthcare provider or who do not have a healthcare provider.
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Colorado Receives Fewer Than Anticipated H1N1 Vaccine Doses This Week
State health officials today reported the amount of H1N1 vaccine received this week, 50,000 doses, is well below the 183,300 doses that were expected. |
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Both Seasonal Influenza and 2009 H1N1 Vaccines to Be Available
DENVER – While some scheduled seasonal influenza vaccination clinics have been postponed, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment reports there should be adequate seasonal influenza vaccine available as we proceed through the rest of October and into November. |
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Flu Patients Encouraged to Call Doctor Before Making a Visit to Clinics or Hospital Emergency Rooms
DENVER--State health officials continue to see an increase in metropolitan-area emergency department and outpatient clinic visits due to influenza-like illness, including by some individuals who are not “high risk” for complications from influenza and are otherwise not severely ill. |
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Jefferson County Annouces its "Leader in Food Safety" Award Winner
Jefferson County Public Health’s Food Safety Program has selected Bandimere Speedway in Morrison, Colorado as the recipient of the 2009 Leader in Food Safety Award. |
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Mammogram Van Is Coming!
Beep, Beep, the Mammogram Van is Coming! Getting a free, lifesaving, early cancer detection service through Jefferson County Public Health’s (JCPH) Cancer Screening for Women Program is now even easier. Women 40 years and older who qualify for the program can walk outside the Lakewood clinic and step into the state-of-the-art mammovan. The specially equipped van is a service provided by Saint Joseph Hospital Foundation in partnership with JCPH. |
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Stop the Flu!
Now is the time to start paying close attention to protecting yourself and your loved ones from flu. While it is impossible to say just how bad the season will be, public health officials expect more illness, more complications from illness and more deaths than the average flu season. |
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Medical Providers Willing to Administer H1N1 Vaccine Asked to PreRegister by Sept. 9, 2009
Jefferson County Public Health is working with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment to pre-register public and private medical providers for an H1N1 vaccination effort this fall. The pre-registration process will help state and local public health agencies prepare to ship H1N1 vaccine to communities’ doctor’s offices, medical clinics and hospital providers as soon as the vaccine becomes available. |
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Pregnant Women and H1N1 . . . Free Educational Session
JEFFERSON COUNTY – Pregnant women infected with the H1N1 influenza A virus are more likely than others who are infected with the virus to experience hospitalizations, and are possibly more likely to die from infection complications, according to federal and state public health professionals. |
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Businesses Encouraged to Follow Updated Guidelines
DENVER– The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment today urged businesses to prepare now for the impact that H1N1 and seasonal influenza could have on the businesses’ employees and operations this fall and winter season.
To assist employers in their planning efforts, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued guidance and a toolkit for businesses. The documents are available at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/business/guidance/ and http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/business/toolkit/ .
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Plague Confirmed in Jefferson County Prairie-Dog Population
Jefferson County, CO--Jefferson County Public Health received confirmation today that flea specimens collected from a prairie dog die-off in the Littleton are have tested positive for bubonic plague. The area of concern is a vacant lot at southwest corner of Ken Caryl Avenue and Simms Street in Littleton. The area is being posted today and citizens are reminded to take simple precautions to avoid exposure. |
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Schools Play Crucial Role in Slowing Spread of Seasonal and H1N1 Flu
DENVER– As the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment prepares for flu immunization activities, the department is urging schools, child-care and college officials to talk to their students and parents about what they are doing to slow the spread of seasonal and H1N1 influenza this year. Health officials also provided a link to a Back-to-School Resource Kit for schools from U.S. Health and Human Services to assist schools with planning for flu season at http://www.flu.gov/plan/school/toolkit.html |
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Celebrate World Breastfeeding Week August 1-7, 2009
Jefferson County, CO– In recognition of World Breastfeeding Week, August 1-7, 2009, Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) reminds everyone that when it comes to infant nutrition, breast milk is best. The theme this year, Breastfeeding: A Vital Emergency Response, Are you ready reinforces the vital role that breastfeeding plays in emergency response worldwide. |
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Recreation and Public Health in the Mountains - Sun Up to Sun Down
Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) in partnership with the Evergreen Park and Recreation District (EPRD) invite mountain area families to join in a fun, educational event, “Public Health in the Mountains - Sun Up to Sun Down” on Thursday, August 6, 2009 from 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. The event will be held at Buchanan Field in Evergreen, 32003 Ellingwood Trail (Evergreen Parkway and Old Squaw Pass Road). |
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Kroger Company Recalling Ground Beef Sold at Colorado King Soopers and City Markets Due to Salmonella
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment officials Thursday announced King Soopers, Inc., a Denver, Colo., establishment, is recalling nearly a half million pounds of ground beef products as it may be contaminated with Salmonella. The ground beef was sold statewide at King Soopers and City Market retail grocery stores. |
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H1N1 Vaccinations Likely to Be Available for Large Portion of State’s Population
With the help of in new funding from the federal government, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is making plans and strengthening its infrastructure ahead of the expected delivery of H1N1 vaccine into the state later this year. |
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Plague Confirmed in Jefferson County Prairie-Dog Population
Jefferson County, CO -- Jefferson County Public Health received positive test results for plague today from a flea specimen collected from a prairie dog die-off at the Westminster Hills Open Space/Dog Park. The dog park is located at 105th Avenue and Simms Street. The area of concern includes the entire dog park and open space area from Simms Street west to Indiana Street. Plague is an infectious disease caused by Yersinia pestis, a bacterium. JCPH recommends that everyone living in or visiting the area in and around the Westminster Hills Open Space/Dog Park take the necessary precautions, listed below, to protect themselves and their pets from plague. |
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First case of West Nile Virus in Jefferson County
Jefferson County Public Health in conjunction with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus for the 2009 Colorado season. The case was reported from Jefferson County, and the patient is recovering at home. |
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Retail Food License Fees to Increase July 1, 2009
Jefferson County Public Health will increase its licensing fees for restaurants and other retail food establishments effective July 1, 2009. Retail food licensing fees are established by the Colorado State Legislature and have been increased across the state. |
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Prevent Animal-borne Disease This Summer
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State Health Officials Urge Avoidance of JBS Swift Ground Beef Products
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is urging Coloradans not to eat certain JBS Swift Company ground beef products as they may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7. |
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Possible E. coli Contamination in Raw Nestle Toll House Cookie Dough
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is urging Coloradans not to eat raw Nestle Toll House cookie dough because of possible contamination with E. coli O157:H7. |
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Putting the Public Back in Public Health!
The Jefferson County Board of Health has approved a new name for the health department and it is: Jefferson County Public Health. “The purpose of the name change is to emphasize the public health aspects of the organization, plus, it’s a lot easier to say” said, Jefferson County Public Health Director, Dr. Mark B. Johnson, M.D. |
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Antiviral Stockpile Deployed Quickly in Time of Need
Federal antiviral medication and medical protective supplies from the Strategic National Stockpile were distributed for the first time throughout Colorado during the ongoing H1N1 virus outbreak. |
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Colorado Reports Two Additional Confirmed Cases of H1N1 Virus
DENVER – Today the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment reported two additional confirmed cases of H1N1 flu in the state. Both are in Jefferson County. |
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Colorado Health Department Provides Guidance for Schools and Day-Care Centers Regarding H1N1 Flu
DENVER – In light of the first two confirmed cases of H1N1 influenza in the state, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has provided guidelines for Colorado schools and day-care centers to avoid the spread of the H1N1 virus. |
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Colorado Reports First Confirmed Cases of H1N1 Influenza A Virus in State
Today the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment reported the first two confirmed cases of H1N1 Influenza A Virus (formerly swine flu)in the state. |
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No Swine Flu Cases Reported in Colorado
DENVER – The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment announced today there have been no documented or reported Colorado cases associated with the swine influenza outbreak in Mexico. The CDC has reported eight cases of type A swine influenza in the United States, including six cases from California (San Diego area) and two cases from Texas (San Antonio area). All eight patients have fully recovered. |
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Jefferson County 2008 Public Health Champions of the Year
Jefferson County, Colorado--Public Health is what we as a society do collectively to prevent illness and premature death and promote health in our communities. Each year, during National Public Health Week, April 6-12, 2009, Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) honors some of the many people it works with throughout the year that help to make our County healthy. While they may not have made public health their profession, the work they do, the partnerships they provide and their enthusiasm for protecting the health of Jefferson County residents makes them the 2008 Public Health Champions of the Year. An award ceremony hosted by JCDHE, the Jefferson County Board of Health and the Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners is scheduled for Thursday, April 9, 2008 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at 100 Jefferson County Parkway in the Lookout Mountain Room. JCDHE is pleased to announce the following 2008 Public Health Champions of the Year:
Kathy Ireland, Dave Seal, Jackie Mohr, Amber Lippert, Annie Bekuhrs, Maria Gurbindo, Mary Pond, Elia Gonzales, Luis Bonet, Eli Ayala, Tina Ayala, Colleen Hatton, Brenda Crowe, Carol Salzmann and Fred Zastrow.
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Colorado Celebrates National Public Health Week
Jefferson County, Colorado? In troubling economic times, often an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Through public health, Colorado families and individuals have access to a wide-array of services that prevent illness and promote health. Public health advocates that if all Americans had access to prevention strategies and adopted healthy lifestyles, health care costs would decrease as people required less medical care.
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Eat Right - March is National Nutrition Month®
Jefferson County--March is National Nutrition Month® and a perfect time to focus on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical-activity habits. Unhealthy diet and inactivity can contribute to many chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, stroke and some cancers. Everyone is encouraged to learn more about the health risks associated with eating habits and take steps to prevent these illnesses.
Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment?s (JCDHE) Nutrition Services Program assists families with healthy meal planning and reminds everyone that there are smart food choices that fit busy lifestyles even with tight budgets. |
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Join the Great American Spit Out on February 19, 2009
Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) and the Tobacco Prevention Initiative encourage all spit-tobacco users to participate in the Great American Spit Out on Thursday, February 19, 2009. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one chew of smokeless tobacco delivers as much nicotine as two to three cigarettes and contains 28 cancer-causing agents. The Great American Spit Out takes place during ?Through with Chew Week,? February 15-21, 2009 and is intended to encourage spit-tobacco users to quit. |
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Jefferson County Public Health Turns 50
The year is 1959 and in the world of public health, school children are receiving inoculations of polio vaccine, first made possible in 1954, the birth control method known as ?the pill? is about to make its debut and the tobacco companies glamorization of tobacco is still stronger than the public health education and marketing of its negative effects. Jefferson County has just established its own local public health department, operating out of the basement of the old courthouse in Golden with a staff of 24 employees.
Now, 50 years later, the Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment celebrates its milestone anniversary by organizing community events that demonstrate public health at work in Jefferson County. |
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It's Not Too Late to Get Your Flu Shot
Jefferson County -- Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) urges those who have not yet protected themselves from the flu do so now. Since immunity takes a couple weeks to reach full force after receiving a flu shot, the sooner you get vaccinated, the sooner you?ll be protected. Vaccine is still available and will continue to be into early spring. Flu season usually lasts until the end of March, thus protect yourself and your family now. It's not too late. |
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Cavity Free at Three Program Helps Put Healthy Smiles on the Faces of Jefferson County's Children
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Gov. Ritter Urges Households to Test for Radon Gas
DENVER ? Gov. Bill Ritter today proclaimed January to be Colorado Radon Action Month and urged residents to test their homes for radon, a radioactive gas responsible for approximately 1,400 Colorado cancer deaths each year. |
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Birth Certificate Misprint Requires Re-Issue
Jefferson County ? Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment is notifying anyone who received a birth certificate from the Jefferson County Vital Records Program between September 8, 2008 and December 16, 2008, that the certificate is missing a barcode used for verification by some government agencies. |
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Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act
Jefferson County?A new federal law called the ?Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act, Public Law 110-140? was passed by Congress in 2007 and requires all pools and spas be in compliance with legal requirements to prevent entrapment threats on pool drains by December 20, 2008. The law promotes the safe use of pools, spas and hot tubs and is administered by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. |
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Jefferson County Recognized for Public Health Emergency Preparedness
Jefferson County? Bioterrorism, infectious disease outbreaks, environmental hazards, and natural disasters are all very real public health threats local public health agencies across the United States work to prepare for and respond to. In Colorado, that planning and response has earned the Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment national recognition as ?Public Health Ready? by the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. |
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World AIDS Day, December 1, 2008
World AIDS Day, December 1, 2008 is about increasing awareness, raising money, fighting prejudice, and improving education about HIV/AIDS. |
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"The Cigarette is Dead" Campaign . . . Drive Your Nail into the Cigarette's Coffin
Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment?s Tobacco Prevention Initiative supports The Cigarette Is Dead Campaign. Visit www.QuitDoingIt.com and tell the world when the cigarette was dead for you. |
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Outbreak of E. coli O157 May be Associated with Exposure to Elk Droppings
DENVER? The Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment are investigating an outbreak of E. coli O157 infections among children in the Evergreen mountain area. |
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Quit for the Day or for Life
Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) encourages
all tobacco users, whether you smoke or use spit tobacco, to Quit for A Day or Quit for Life during the Great American Smokeout, November 20, 2008.
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City of Arvada Becomes First City with 100% Smoke-Free Workplaces in Jefferson County
Jefferson County -- On Oct. 6, 2008, the City of Arvada became Jefferson County?s first community with 100 percent smoke-free workplaces. Arvada unanimously passed ordinance CB08-02, ?Restricting Smoking in Public Places and Limiting the Exposure of Children to Tobacco and Smoking Products,? which strengthens the City?s 2005 Smoking in Public Places Ordinance. This closes a loophole in Arvada?s smoke-free ordinance that exempted tobacco businesses from being smoke free. The revised law further protects all workers and the public from secondhand smoke and reduces youth exposure and access to tobacco products. |
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Ongoing Investigation of E. Coli in the Evergreen Area
Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) in conjunction with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is investigating a cluster of illness in 8 children, aged 4-12 years of age, in the Evergreen mountain area, caused by a toxin-producing organism, E. coli O157:H7. |
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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Jefferson County Department of Health & Environment (JCDHE) reminds everyone that early detection of breast cancer saves lives! |
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Rabies Confirmed in Denver Skunk
The state lab at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has confirmed a rabid skunk in the vicinity of Sloan?s Lake in Northwest Denver. |
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Health Officials Warn Public about Ingesting Dangerous Plant - Moonflower
Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE), in conjunction with the Rocky Mountain Poison Center (RMPC) and the Colorado Department of Health and Environment (CDPHE), issued a public health warning today about the dangers of ingesting a local growing weed, commonly called moonflower. |
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Get Your Flu Shot this 2008/2009 Influenza Season
It?s the time of year to get your annual flu shot. Vaccination against the flu is the best way to avoid illness from influenza this winter season. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends receiving your flu shot as early as October. |
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Jefferson County “Leader in Food Safety” Award
The Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) Food Safety Program has selected four food establishments as recipients of the 8th annual 2008 Leader in Food Safety Award. |
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September is National Food Safety Education Month - ?Be Food Safe . . . Clean, Separate, Cook and Chill?
There is nothing quite like going out for a bite to eat, or gathering friends and family for a special home-cooked meal or an outdoor barbecue, and ending up sick . . . really sick. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that every year about 76 million people in the United States become ill from harmful bacteria in food; of these, about 5,000 die. September is National Food Safety Education month and a perfect time to brush up on your food safety practices and education. This year?s theme, Be Food Safe, emphasizes the importance of preventing food-borne illness through the four easy lessons of Clean, Separate, Cook and Chill. |
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Partners for Healthy Families Picnic Celebration
Jefferson County?The Partners for Healthy Families Program will host its 8th annual picnic on Friday, September 12, 2008 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Lakewood Park, 150 Kipling Street. (Lakewood Park is located behind and across the street from JCDHE?s Lakewood Clinic.) |
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Celebrate World Breastfeeding Week August 1-7, 2008
Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment supports creating optimal conditions for mothers and their infants, including specific breastfeeding needs. |
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Plane, Cruise, Train or Bus . . .Travel Health Information is a Must
Airline tickets have been purchased, bags are nearly packed, hotel reservations have been confirmed . . . and ideally, a visit with a public health nurse at the Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment?s International Travel Clinic has been made. |
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First Colorado Cases of West Nile Virus Confirmed
DENVER- State health officials have confirmed the first two human cases of West Nile virus for the 2008 season. The cases were reported from Boulder and Logan counties. Both patients are recovering from their illnesses.
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Public Urged to Take Precautions to Avoid Hantavirus
With the return of summer, state and local health officials again are warning
Coloradans in rural parts of the state to avoid hantavirus exposure
while cleaning cabins, buildings, sheds and barns that may have been
closed up for winter. |
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International Travelers Advised of Need for Measles Immunization . . .
Public health officials in Colorado and across the United
States are warning travelers to check their measles immunization status
before traveling internationally this summer.
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Public Cautioned About Skunks with Rabies
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has
issued advisories to local public health agencies and veterinarians
regarding eight confirmed cases of rabies in wildlife in the eastern
part of the state?including seven skunks and one coyote ? over the
past year. Based upon the widely dispersed locations of these
rabies-positive specimens, it appears that skunk rabies may be
circulating in eastern areas of the state and potentially moving west
toward the Front Range.
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Exempla Lutheran Medical Center Going Tobacco-Free July, 2008
WHEAT RIDGE, COLO - Exempla Lutheran Medical Center (Lutheran) will join hospitals across the state and country in becoming tobacco-free on Thursday, July 3, 2008.
?Our decision to go tobacco free demonstrates Lutheran?s mission, to foster healing and health for the people and communities we serve,? said Bob Malte, Lutheran President and CEO. ?As a healthcare organization, we have a unique responsibility to lead by example in promoting healthy living.?
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Prevent Animal-Borne Diseases This Summer
Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment reminds residents that as summer approaches, so does the risk of contracting certain animal-borne diseases. |
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Prevent Recreational Water Illness . . . Keep Swimming Pools Safe for Exercise and Play
Jefferson County?Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) in conjunction with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment reminds everyone to practice healthy swimming behaviors this summer to help prevent recreational water illnesses from germs such as Cryptosporidium (?Crypto?). Crypto is diarrheal disease caused by a chlorine-resistant parasite, and is primarily associated with treated recreational water venues, such as swimming pools and water parks. The week before Memorial Day has been designated as National Recreational Water Illness Prevention Week, May 19-25, 2008. |
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Compact Fluorescent Light Recycling Made Easier
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) in conjunction with the Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment announced today that Coloradans now can drop-off their used compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) and mercury-containing thermostats for recycling at any Ace Hardware store in the state. |
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Help Prevent Teen Pregnancy in Jefferson County
Every four hours a baby is born to a Colorado teen between 15 and 17 years old.
30% of Colorado students engaging in sexual activity reported they did not use a condom the last time they had sexual intercourse. (Colorado Organization on Adolescent, Pregnancy, Parenting, and Prevention)
May is National Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month and a good time for parents to talk to their teens about the importance of reproductive health. Studies indicate that teen mothers are less likely to complete high school, more likely to be single parents, and more likely to live in poverty than other teens.
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Public Health Week ? Climate Change Our Health in the Balance
Communities across the country will celebrate National Public Health Week, April 7-13, 2008. The theme this year is "Climate Change: Our Health in the Balance." Despite the direct connection between climate change and health, few are aware of the very real consequences of climate change on the health of our communities, our families and our children. On Monday, April 7, at 10:30 a.m., Lt. Gov. Barbara O?Brien will join officials from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and local public health departments from across the state to kick off the week. The kick-off event is being held at one of Colorado?s premier walkable communities, Stapleton?s new Central Park, located at Martin Luther King Blvd. and Central Park Ave and will focus on the little things we can all do to protect the health of our planet. |
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Jefferson County 2007 Public Health Champions of the Year
Jefferson County, Colorado ? Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) has announced its 2007 Public Health Champions of the Year. The health department?s efforts to enhance health and vitality for the citizens of Jefferson County are supported and sustained each year by the people and communities it serves. This year?s group of champions as diverse as they are in their day jobs: P.E. teacher, mayor, therapist, attorney, affordable housing resident, housing manager, PTA member and a registered nurse, have all worked in their own special way to create a healthier Jefferson County. The 2007 Public Health Champions will be honored at an awards ceremony hosted by the health department, the Jefferson County Board of Health and the Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners on Thursday, April 3, 2007 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at 100 Jefferson County Parkway, Golden, CO in the Lookout Mountain Room. |
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Health Department Hires New Administrative Services Director
Golden, CO -- Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) has named Elizabeth (Beth) Lipscomb as the new Director of the Administrative Services Division. |
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Getting Ready to Quit Tobacco - Free Class Available
Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment and Exempla Lutheran Medical Center are offering a FREE "Getting Ready to Quit" class for people considering quitting tobacco. The class will be January 31 from 6p-8p at the Exempla Lutheran Medical Center's Learning Center, Classroom 2. |
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January is National Cervical Cancer Screening Month
January is National Cervical Cancer Screening Month and Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) reminds women to schedule a breast and cervical health screening. Cancer screenings and early detection saves lives. |
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January is National Birth Defects Prevention Month
In recognition of National Birth Defects Prevention Month, Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) reminds everyone that ?Healthy Moms = Healthy Babies?. This year?s theme is ?Preventing Infections in Pregnancy?. |
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Jefferson County Public Health leads by example
In an effort to lead by example, Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment's directors and supervisors lined up for their flu shots. |
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Children?s Hib Vaccine Recalled by Producer
DENVER On Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2007, pharmaceutical company Merck & Co. recalled approximately 1 million doses of a children=s Haemophilus b Conjugate (Hib) vaccine as a preventative measure due to Alack of assurance of product sterility.@ Providers are advised not to administer any additional doses of the recalled vaccine. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in a conference call yesterday with state health department officials around the country, said the recalled vaccine does not present a health threat and no adverse events have been reported following vaccination with the recalled vaccine. This vaccine is not linked to the influenza vaccine. |
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Norovirus Identified in Chatfield High School Gastrointestinal Outbreak
Jefferson County?The Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment has identified Norovirus as the most probable cause of a sudden outbreak of gastrointestinal illness among individuals on the Chatfield High School Football team. Lab results received this morning from the Colorado Department of Health and Environment confirmed the presence of Norovirus in a specimen collected during the investigation. Approximately 30 individuals on the Chatfield High School became ill following a road-trip to Fort Collins on Saturday, November 3, 2007. The first symptoms of illness occurred on Sunday, November 4, 2007 and included nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. All of those who became ill are recovering or have recovered. One student was hospitalized for dehydration but has been released from the hospital and is recovering. The Health Department has identified no evidence of spread to the community or beyond the team to date. |
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Coloradans Urged to Check Freezers for Recalled Banquet and Generic Store Brand Frozen Pot Pies Associated With Salmonella Outbreak
DENVER? State consumer protection officials Wednesday urged Colorado residents to check their freezers for recalled ConAgra frozen pot pie products that may be linked to an outbreak of salmonellosis.
State health officials advised consumers not to eat Banquet brand and generic store brand frozen pot pies and to return or discard them.
Seven Colorado cases have been reported with the outbreak strain of Salmonella from the following counties: Adams (3), El Paso (1), Jefferson, Mesa and Weld. Two are known to have consumed the recalled products; information for the other cases is pending. Nationally, at least 211 individuals from 35 states have become ill.
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Early Detection Saves Lives - Womens' Wellness Connection
Jefferson County Department of Health & Environment (JCDHE) program reminds everyone that early detection of breast and cervical cancer saves lives! Changes in the breast that may be cancer can be detected by mammography before physical symptoms can be seen or felt. Early detection of breast cancer allows for early treatment options and increases survival rates. The PAP test is the screening tool for cervical cancer. There is also a new vaccine called Gardasil that can prevent some cervical cancers and other diseases caused by certain types of genital human papillomavirus (HPV). |
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Public Can Sign Up for State's Emergency Operations News
DENVER - The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has
announced a free, automated e-mail subscription service for the general
public. This Web-based service allows subscribers to receive timely
updates, at both an e-mail address and on a text-enabled device, about
such topics as pandemic influenza and natural disasters. This free service is accessible from the department?s Web site at
www.cdphe.state.co.us/epr
The Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment Emergency Preparedness Program works in partnership with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Office of Emergency Preparedness to provide accurate, timely information to the public regarding public health emergencies. For more information on Jefferson County Emergency Preparedness, please visit http://health.jeffco.us or email Jody Erwin at jerwin@jeffco.us |
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Preparing for the Worst...Public Health Table-Top Exercise Brings Key Players Together
Would my kids still be able to go to school? How would we determine when to re-open schools? How would we track voluntary quarantine? How long would people be told to stay away from public places? What is the best way to take care of someone at home? How would we track and handle the dead? |
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We've Come A Long Way . . . Jefferson County Celebrates the Anniversary of the Colorado Clean Indoor Air Act
July 1, 2007 marks the one-year anniversary of the Colorado Clean Indoor Air Act and Jefferson County has plenty to celebrate. The Colorado Clean Indoor Air Act protects Jefferson County residents, visitors and workers from involuntary exposure to secondhand smoke. |
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Possible E. coli 0157:H7 Contamination of Certain Beef Products_State Health Dept. News
DENVER--The Consumer Protection Division of the Colorado Department of
Public Health and Environment Monday urged Coloradans who purchased
certain Moran's ground beef from Albertsons stores to check the
product for specific code information and discard it or return it to the
place of purchase for a refund. The ground beef has been recalled due to
possible contamination with E. coli O157:H7.
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Jefferson County Advertisements Promote Smoke Free Living
You may have noticed some new advertising throughout Jefferson County. Bus bench ads, newspaper ads, fliers . . . all promoting two new websites, OwnYourC.com, (the C stands for Choices) and RaiseSmokeFreeKids.com. The websites provide valuable information about secondhand smoke, tobacco use and staying tobacco-free. |
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JCDHE Conifer Clinic and WIC Program Closed Due to Budget
Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) announced today that due to budget projections for 2008, the Department will be closing down the JCDHE clinical and WIC services at the Mountain Resource Center located in Conifer, Colorado. The Conifer Community Health Services clinic will close effective June 30, 2007 and the Conifer Women Infants Children (WIC) Program will close effective, July 31, 2007. The decision was made by the Jefferson County Board of Health and JCDHE's management team after much deliberation. |
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Calling All Moms and Daughters
In recognition of Mother's Day, May 13, 2007, Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) urges all mothers and daughters to call and schedule a breast and cervical cancer screening exam. Regular screening by a physician or nurse practitioner is important because breast and cervical cancers do not have obvious symptoms until the disease is advanced and difficult to treat. |
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BREATHE EASIER: School On Board With Lung Health and Tobacco Prevention
May is allergy and asthma awareness month. An estimated 11% of all asthma cases and 500,000 doctor visits among children are due to smoking in the home. To raise awareness about the importance of lung health, Fairmont Elementary School 5th graders (classes of Kim Tilton & Michelle DiGiosio) are collaborating with several agencies to bring tobacco prevention information to the community.
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Plague Confirmed in Dead Tree Squirrel in South Jefferson County
Plague Confirmed in Dead Tree Squirrel in South Jefferson County
Jefferson County -- Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) received confirmation today that a dead squirrel found in the Littleton area, along the greenbelt bordered by Wadsworth Boulevard and Chatfield Avenue, has tested positive for bubonic plague. The area will be posted and citizens are reminded to take simple precautions to avoid exposure. Plague is a highly infectious bacterial disease maintained by various types of wild rodents and is transmitted primarily by flea bites. |
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National Infant Immunization Week April 21-28, 2007
National Infant Immunization Week April 21-28, 2007
JCDHE reminds parents and guardians to be sure their children have had all the immunizations required for their age group before they are enrolled in child care or school for the 2007-2008 school year. Vaccination is the best way to prevent many serious and life threatening childhood diseases.
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Lt. Gov. Barbara O?Brien to Lead ?Walk for Health?
Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment invites everyone to join public health employees from across the state on a ?Walk for Health? to kick off Colorado?s observance of National Public Health Week, April 2-8 2007. The walk will be led by Lt. Governor, Barbara Obrien and is scheduled for Tuesday, April 3rd, 2007 from 11:30 to 12:30. Participants will meet at the Rita Bass EMS Center, 190 W. 6th Ave., Denver Health Medical Center, (southeast corner of 6th Ave. and Bannock) and walk to the west steps of the State Capitol. |
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2006 Public Health Champions of the Year
The Public Health Champion of the Year Award was designed in 1998 by the Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) to recognize individuals, businesses and organizations in our community who make an important contribution to the public?s health when it is not their primary job. The winners of the 2006 Public Health Champion of the Year Award will be honored by the Jefferson County Board of Health and the Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners on Thursday, April 5, 2007. The awards ceremony is held during National Public Health Week, April 2-8, 2007. |
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Student Death & Updated Information
Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) has received updated information from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment regarding the autopsy test results of a student who died in Jefferson County on February 28, 2007. Following a request for additional laboratory testing, it was determined that this tragic and sudden death was caused by a gram-negative bacterium with rod-like shape, most consistent with Haemophilus influenzae (Hib). |
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Health Department Executive Director--A Leader in Preventive Medicine
Dr. Mark Johnson, M.D., M.P.H., Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment Executive Director, added yet another title to his name last week when he was elected to the position of President-elect of the American College of Preventive Medicine (ACPM) at their annual meeting in Miami, Florida. Established in 1954, the ACPM is the national professional society for physicians committed to disease prevention and health promotion. |
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State Health Officials Urge Coloradans to Check Their Refrigerators and Freezers for Oscar Mayer/Louis Rich Chicken Breast Strips
DENVER?The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment today again urged individuals who may have purchased a variety of Oscar Mayer/Louis Rich chicken breast cuts and strips at retail locations in Colorado to check their packages for specific code information as this chicken may be contaminated by Listeria monocytogenes. |
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Contaminated Peanut Butter Sickens Coloradoans
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), state health departments, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
and the Department of Agriculture (USDA) are investigating an outbreak
of an illness caused by Salmonella Tennessee. To date, CDC has
identified 288 patients from 39 states. Thirty-one patients have been
hospitalized and there have been no reported deaths.
Health officials from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment warned consumers not to eat jars of Peter Pan or Great Value peanut butter with the product code on the lid that begins with the number ?2111? because of the risk of Salmonella Tennessee contamination. |
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Get Your Heart Into It . . . Reduce Your Risk of Heart Disease
This February, American Heart Month, take some time to consider the health of your heart and begin reducing your risk of heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women and men in the United States. The American Heart Association estimates that approximately 1.2 million Americans will have a new or recurrent coronary (heart) attack this year. Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) reminds everyone that adopting a healthy lifestyle can greatly reduce your chances of death and disability from heart disease and stroke. |
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Mammogram Van is Here! . . . October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Beep, Beep, the Mammogram Van is here! That means getting a free, lifesaving, early cancer detection service through JCDHE's Cancer Control Program just got even simpler. Women 40 years and older who qualify for the program have always received vouchers for free mammograms at Exempla Lutheran Breast Center. Now, thanks to the traveling mammovan, clients have another option. |
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JCDHE Community Health Services Director Receives Lillian Wald Award for Public Health Nursing Leadership
Norma Tubman, RN, MScN, JCDHE Director of Community Health Services has contributed her time and energy for the past 35 years to the field of public health nursing. On September 19, 2006, Norma received the Lillian Wald Award from the Colorado Public Health Nursing Association before a statewide group of public and environmental health professionals gathered for the annual Public Health in Colorado Conference. As recipient of the 2006 Lillian Wald Award, Norma was recognized for her leadership skills and innovation in addressing public health concerns in the community. Dr. Mark Johnson, JCDHE Executive Director said, "Norma's achievements are very impressive. Her commitment to improving health for all Coloradoans is demonstrated by her many contributions to public health and to the department. We are fortunate to work with her." |
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First Human Case/Death from West Nile Virus in Jefferson County in 2006
Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) announced today the first death from West Nile Virus (WNV) in Colorado and in Jefferson County in 2006. This was also the first confirmed human case in the County. A Jefferson County, 82-year old female developed meningoencephalitis resulting in death. |
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Upcoming ABC Movie is "Fiction, not fact", Health Officials Advise
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Monday reminded Coloradans that the made-for-television movie, "Fatal Contact: Bird Flu in America," which is to air on the ABC network at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 9, is "fiction, not fact." |
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Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Confirms First Mumps Case in Colorado in Connection with U.S. Outbreak
A Colorado mumps case, reported to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and the Tri-County Health Department as part of the recent increased surveillance throughout the United States, has tested positive for the disease.
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System for Reporting Sick, Dead Birds Established in Colorado
A new, comprehensive system has been established in Colorado for reporting sick, dying or dead birds that might be carriers either of avian flu or West Nile virus. |
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South-Central Arvada Residents Using Well Water for Drinking Urged to Have Water Tested for Metal Contaminants
Arvada-- Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment and the City of Arvada's Water Quality Division urge residents using private wells for drinking water in the vicinity of 51st Avenue between Garrison St. and Allison St. to have their water tested for possible elevated metal levels. |
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Household Mercury Thermometer Collection Project
Looking for a place to safely dispose of your household mercury fever thermometers? It's a good idea to get rid of them because improper disposal of mercury thermometers is a major source of harmful mercury in our air, water and soil. Jefferson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) will collect household mercury thermometers now through July, 2006. JCDHE and local health departments across the state are participating in the "Mercury Free Colorado Campaign" a statewide initiative to collect and safely dispose of mercury thermometers.
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