South Health District

DPH recognizes May as Stroke Awareness Month, and this week (May 21 – 27) as Annual EMS Week. In combination, DPH recognizes that without Emergency Medical Services, treating stroke quickly – critical to preventing permanent brain damage – would not be possible.

Georgia is leading the country with above average early childhood vaccinations with 75.6 percent of children 19-35 months old protected, compared to national averages of 72.2 percent for the 7-vaccine series.

Local Environmental Health rules for adoption.

According to a recent analysis by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Georgia is among eight states whose infection rate dropped significantly during the six-year period.

DPH is confirming the first flu-related death in Georgia this year. Flu activity is increasing statewide, along with the number of hospitalizations due to flu-related illness.

DPH is urging caution about the use and exposure of children and youth to electronic nicotine delivery systems, including electronic cigarettes. The U.S. Surgeon General issued a report this week on the dangers of electronic nicotine delivery systems saying “nicotine-containing products are unsafe for youth.”

The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) recommends older drivers and their families take time to talk about individual challenges and limitations of driving.

Tobacco use is the No. 1 preventable cause of death in Georgia, yet many Georgians still use tobacco, tobacco products or electronic nicotine devices.

Brooks County Health Department is hosting a Parent Education Program about Understanding Today’s Youth Culture on Tuesday, November 15. Dinner will be provided to all registrants that attend.

This year’s NFSM campaign will focus on protecting against some of the leading causes of foodborne illness – Norovirus and Hepatitis A.