- Written by Jennifer King, Public Information Officer
- Category: Press Room
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North GA — As the threat of wildfires continues in North Georgia due to current drought conditions, local health authorities are urging residents to prioritize their safety. North Georgia Health District officials highlight the significant health risks linked to possible wildfire smoke exposure and offer advice on protective measures.
Wildfire smoke, a complicated blend of gases and tiny particles produced when wood and other organic materials combust, poses a significant health threat. These minuscule particles can infiltrate deep into the lungs, leading to a variety of health issues, from eye irritation and a runny nose to chronic heart and lung diseases.
"Exposure to wildfire smoke can lead to severe health consequences, especially for children, the elderly, and those with existing respiratory conditions," said Dr. Zachary Taylor, Interim District Health Director for the North Georgia Health District. "It's imperative that residents take the necessary steps to minimize their exposure to the smoke."
Health officials suggest taking the following measures to shield yourself from wildfire smoke:
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- Written by Jennifer King, Public Information Officer
- Category: Press Room
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North GA - The holiday season has arrived, bringing with it opportunities to share thanks and spread cheer as we spend time with loved ones. However, it's also a time when the flu can spread, leading to potentially severe complications. The most effective way to guard against the flu is to get vaccinated. Everyone aged six months and above can be protected from the flu with an annual flu shot. And when people are protected, it helps prevent the spread of flu to their loved ones.
Flu vaccines are readily available at health departments in the North Georgia Health District, including Cherokee, Fannin, Gilmer, Murray, Pickens, and Whitfield counties. No appointment is necessary during regular clinic hours, and the vaccine is low or no cost to you, depending on your healthcare coverage.
Children are particularly vulnerable to the flu, which can be more dangerous for them than the common cold. Every year, millions of children fall ill with the flu, leading to thousands of hospitalizations and even some deaths. Fortunately, a flu vaccine can help safeguard your children against the flu.
Children under five years old, especially those under two, and children with chronic health conditions like asthma and diabetes, are at a higher risk of severe flu complications. It's crucial that these children receive a seasonal flu vaccine to help prevent the flu and reduce their risk of hospitalization or death if they fall ill.
Parents can help their children combat the flu by ensuring the whole family gets vaccinated each year.
Getting a flu shot also helps protect other vulnerable loved ones, such as adults aged 65 and older and people with certain chronic conditions. These groups are at a higher risk of severe flu complications and hospitalization.
For people 65 and older, high dose flu vaccine is available, which contains four times the protective antigen that will help prevent flu in this age group, whose immune systems tend to weaken with age.
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- Written by Jennifer King, Public Information Officer
- Category: Press Room
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Click to Download Flyer in English & Spanish!North GA - Free HIV Testing and PrEP Education will be offered in North Georgia on WORLD AIDS DAY, December 1st! These free services, along with great Goodie Bags, will be featured that day by the North Georgia Health District's Ryan White Clinic, The Living Bridge Center, at locations in Dalton and Canton, as follows:
Mack Gaston Community Center
218 N. Fredrick Street, Dalton, GA 30721
Friday, December 1, 2023
9 AM - 12 PM
The Living Bridge Center, South
130 Riverstone Terrace, Suite 102, Canton GA 30114
Friday, December 1, 2023
8 AM - 11 AM
Every year on December 1st, the world unites to commemorate World AIDS Day. This annual event serves as a reminder of the global struggle to end HIV-related stigma, an opportunity to honor those who have been lost, and a rallying cry to continue working toward a day when HIV is no longer a public health threat. In 2023, HIV.gov marks the 35th commemoration of this important day with the theme “World AIDS Day 35: Remember and Commit”.
According to UNAIDS.org, the world can end AIDS, with communities leading the way. The UNAIDS World AIDS Day theme this year is "LET COMMUNITIES LEAD". Organizations of communities living with, at risk of, or affected by HIV are the frontline of progress in the HIV response. Communities connect people with person-centered public health services, build trust, innovate, monitor implementation of policies and services, and hold providers accountable.
Learn more about HIV/AIDS and get details about all services offered by The Living Bridge Center clinics in North Georgia here on our website at nghd.org/tlbc-home.
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- Written by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Category: Press Room
Seven Ways to Be Safe and Healthy This Halloween
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Don’t let your health get tricked this Halloween! Here are a few ways to stay safe and healthy.
1. Get Moving
Carve out time to be active this Halloween – between get-togethers and trick-or-treating in the neighborhood. Take a walk and do some weight training to help you feel good!
Regular physical activity can help control your weight, reduce your risk of heart disease and some cancers, improve mental health and mood, and increase your chance of living longer.
2. Eat Well
Don’t spend this Halloween filling up on junk food and sweets. Give yourself and your guests healthier choices and nutritious treats.
Fruits and vegetables are part of a well-balanced and healthy eating plan. Fruits and vegetables also provide essential vitamins and minerals, fiber, and other substances that are important for good health.
3. Keep Your Bite Healthy
Keep Halloween candy at bay. Care for teeth the right way – brush with a fluoride toothpaste each and every day.
Tooth decay (cavities) is one of the most common chronic conditions of childhood in the United States. Untreated tooth decay can cause pain and infections that may lead to problems with eating, speaking, playing, and learning.
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