(September 17, 2009) Flu season has arrived and the Saint Louis County Department of Health is urging that all residents be vaccinated against the seasonal flu – especially those most vulnerable such as the elderly and young children.

Yesterday, County Executive Charlie A. Dooley and Dr. Dolores J. Gunn, Director of the Saint Louis County Department of Health, were both vaccinated against the seasonal flu at an event highlighting the importance and ease of being vaccinated.

“It’s not just about protecting yourself. If you don’t catch the flu, then you can’t spread the flu,” said Dr. Gunn.

To find out where to go for seasonal flu vaccinations (or to find more information about the seasonal flu), call the Seasonal Flu Vaccination Hotline or visit the Saint Louis County Flu website:

314-644-4FLU (4358)

www.SaintLouisCountyFlu.com

Depending on the severity of the outbreak, between 15 and 60 million Americans are infected by seasonal flu each flu season. Over 200,000 people are hospitalized every year due to flu-related complications, and around 36,000 of them die. The populations most vulnerable to the flu are the elderly and young children.

Other standard precautions being urged by the County Health Department are:

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. Cough and sneeze into a tissue or into your sleeve. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Try to maintain a distance of three feet between you and others. Stay home when you are sick or think you may be getting sick.

(September 14, 2009) The recent attack by a rabid bat on an unvaccinated cat is a reminder that owners should safeguard their household pets by making sure they are protected against rabies, according to the Saint Louis County Department of Health.

An unvaccinated cat that belonged to a Wildwood resident was euthanized recently after it was bitten by a rabid bat.

“We all care deeply for our pets and it’s important to protect them against rabies,” said Saint Louis County Health Department Director Dr. Dolores J. Gunn. `“Unfortunately, there is no test that can be performed on a live cat or dog to determine if it has rabies.” Gunn said. County ordinances require that domestic dogs and cats be licensed and vaccinated.

A bat should not be touched or released if it is discovered in a residential area. County animal control officers will pick up a bat at no charge if it is discovered in a home so it can be tested for rabies.

Residents should not attempt to capture a live bat but should confine it to the room where it is discovered so animal control officers can collect it for rabies testing. During business hours, county residents should call 314-831-6500. After business hours, and on weekends and holidays, residents should call Saint Louis County Police at 314-889-2341.

Never release a bat found in a home if it was present while people were sleeping or in the same room with children or adults who, due to health or age, may not be able to describe the extent of their exposure.

“It’s important that a bat that may have bitten a human be tested for rabies as soon as possible,” said Dr. Gunn. “If the bat is released or disposed of, it is very difficult to determine if a person could have been exposed to rabies.”

The health department has tested 479 bats this year and 19 were rabid.

For more information about pet vaccinations, visit www.stlouisco.com/doh and click on Animal Control.

(September 10, 2009) The Saint Louis County Department of Health is urging local employers to be ready for a potentially difficult flu season. The combination of seasonal flu and the new H1N1 flu could result in high absenteeism and the department is asking employers to join the fight against the flu.

“There are many positive steps that businesses can take to help protect their employees and customers” said County Executive Charlie A. Dooley. “We are advising employers not to wait for an outbreak of seasonal flu or the new H1N1 flu to develop a plan for disruptions that might be caused by illness in their workforce.”

The health department is urging employers to start planning now for worker absenteeism during the approaching flu season – both because employees may become sick and because they may have sick children to care for.

“Employees who have the flu can infect other employees or customers and should stay at home until they are able to maintain a normal temperature for at least 24 hours without the use of a fever reducer,” said Dr. Dolores J. Gunn, Director of the Saint Louis County Department of Health.

The health department recognizes that high absenteeism can be difficult for businesses to handle and advises that all businesses take basic precautions to keep their workforce healthy.

Restroom supplies should be kept fully stocked – both for customers and employees – and employees should have regular access to such facilities in order to wash their hands with soap and water. Alternatively, alcohol-based hand sanitizers should be made available for employee use. It is also recommended that all commonly touched surfaces be cleaned regularly to avoid spreading illness.

Employers are also urged to consider public health when establishing employee sick leave policies.

“It is better to let a sick employee have a few extra days off than to have that employee infect the rest of your workforce,” said Dr. Gunn.

The Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention further recommends that businesses and organizations consider the following:

• Reviewing or establishing a flexible flu plan and involving employees in developing or reviewing the plan.
• Knowing your business’s or organization’s normal seasonal absenteeism rate and monitoring for any unusual increases in absenteeism through the fall and winter.
• Allowing sick workers to stay home without fear of losing their jobs.
• Developing other flexible leave policies to allow workers to stay home to care for sick family members, or for children if schools dismiss students or child care programs close;
• Recommending that parents not bring their children to work with them if they are sick or while schools are dismissed.

For more information about the seasonal flu or the new H1N1 flu, please visit the Saint Louis County Department of Health’s website at:

www.SaintLouisFlu.com

Or visit the CDC’s new H1N1 flu website at:

www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu

(August 27, 2009) Pregnant women, children, and young adults will be given first priority when the new H1N1 vaccine arrives, said Dr. Dolores J. Gunn, Director of the Saint Louis County Department of Health. Everyone in Saint Louis County who wants to be vaccinated will have that opportunity once all the doses have arrived, Gunn said.

“We expect to receive the first shipment of New H1N1 vaccine in mid to late October and preparations are well underway to handle the distribution,” Dr. Gunn said.

Although the federal government has ordered doses of the new H1N1 influenza vaccine for all Americans, the entire order will not arrive at the same time. There will be an initial shipment distributed throughout the United States, followed by regular shipments thereafter until everyone who wants to be vaccinated against the new H1N1 virus has been vaccinated.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (the CDC) has issued guidelines regarding who should be eligible to be vaccinated first. Initial vaccinations will focus on those populations most vulnerable to this particular influenza strain.

The specific groups that will be eligible to receive vaccinations during the first round include:

• pregnant woman;
• children and young adults six (6) months old through 24 years of age;
• caregivers for infants under the age of six (6) months; and
• adults aged 25 through 64 with medical conditions that put them at risk for influenza-related complications.

Also included in the first round will be health care workers and emergency medical service workers to ensure that they are not spreading the virus to the patients they treat.

“Despite the initial focus on the most vulnerable groups, it is important to remember that everyone who wants a vaccination will be able to get one,” Gunn said. “It is not a question of ‘if’, but ‘when.’ There will be enough vaccine for everyone.”

The County Health Department is also stressing that until a vaccine is available, the only weapon available to fight the new H1N1 flu virus is prevention.

“Right now, we are playing defense. We don’t yet have a vaccine for the new H1N1 virus, so we are focusing our message on prevention,” said Dr. Mike Williams, Director of the County Health Department’s Communicable Disease Control program. “Once we have a vaccine for the new flu, we’ll go on offense, but until then, we have to heed the common sense warnings our parents and grandparents taught us.”

The precautions currently recommended by the department to avoid both the seasonal flu and the new H1N1 flu include:

• Cover your mouth whenever you sneeze or cough.
• Wash your hands regularly, especially after sneezing, coughing, or blowing your nose.
• Use alcohol-based sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth; if you do touch them, wash your hands.
• Keep a distance of at least three feet between you and other people.

Those who do get sick should go home and stay home. It is important that sick people distance themselves from others – even members of their own family – in order to minimize the chances of spreading the illness. It is also a good idea to keep a supply of essentials on hand this season so that if you or your children do become sick, you won’t need to make a trip to the store – you’ll already have what you need at home.

Children and adults should stay home from school or work until any illness has passed. Once a fever has broken, people should still stay home until they can maintain a normal temperature for at least 24 hours without the use of any fever reducing medicine.

For more information about the flu – both the seasonal flu and the new H1N1 flu – please visit the Saint Louis County Department of Health’s website or the CDC’s H1N1 website:

www.stlouisco.com/doh

www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu

(August 19, 2009) As children head back to school – especially with the presence of the new H1N1 flu virus – the Saint Louis County Department of Health is reminding parents and guardians how best to avoid the flu, and what to do if they or their children come down with the flu.

“Because we don’t have a vaccine for the new H1N1 flu yet, we have to rely on the common sense precautions we learned as kids to stop the spread of germs,” said Dr. Dolores J. Gunn, Director of the County Health Department. “Unfortunately, kids are excellent germ spreaders, so we have to make sure to teach them safe behaviors and good hygiene.”

In addition to the new H1N1 flu that arrived in May, the seasonal flu is expected to return over the next few months as well. Although these two different types of flu are transmitted in similar ways and have similar symptoms, there are some real differences worth noting:

• The new H1N1 flu is highly contagious and can spread very rapidly through a population.
• Unlike the seasonal flu, which tends to affect seniors and the very young, the new H1N1 flu primarily affects young adults, especially those under 25 years of age.
• Unlike the seasonal flu, there is currently no vaccine for the new H1N1 flu, although one is expected sometime this fall.

“Right now, we are playing defense. We don’t have a vaccine for the new H1N1 virus yet, so we are focusing our message on prevention,” said Dr. Mike Williams, Director of the County Health Department’s Communicable Disease Control program. “When we have a vaccine for the new flu later this year, we’ll go on offense, but until then, we have to heed the common sense warnings our parents and grandparents used to tell us.”

The precautions currently recommended by the department to avoid both the seasonal flu and the new H1N1 flu include:

• Cover your mouth whenever you sneeze or cough.
• Wash your hands regularly, especially after sneezing, coughing, or blowing your nose.
• If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth as much as possible; wash your hands if you do touch them.
• Keep a distance of at least three feet between you and other people.

If you or your children do get sick, go home and stay home. It is important that you distance yourself from other people – even people within your own family – in order to keep your contact with others to a minimum. It is also a good idea to keep a supply of essentials on hand this season so that if you or your children do become sick, you won’t need to make a trip to the store – you’ll already have what you need at home.

Children should be kept out of school until any illness has passed. Once their fever has broken, they should still be kept at home until they can maintain a normal temperature for at least 24 hours without the use of any fever reducing medicine.

For more information about seasonal flu and the new H1N1 flu, please visit the Saint Louis County Department of Health’s website:

www.stlouisco.com/doh

For additional information about the new H1N1 flu from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, please visit their website:

www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu

(August 13, 2009) National Health Center Week runs from August 9^th through August 15^th, and the Saint Louis County Department of Health is using the opportunity to highlight its three health centers.

“Nationwide, health centers play a vital role in protecting public health, and we are quite fortunate in Saint Louis County because our local Health Department operates three health centers that any county resident can visit to meet their primary healthcare needs,” said Dr. Dolores J. Gunn, Director of the County Health Department.

Added Dr. Gunn, “It doesn’t matter if you have a job or health insurance – if you are a resident of Saint Louis County, you can access the services offered by our health centers.”

Nationwide there are 44 million people without insurance and another 56 million who, although they may have insurance, live in areas without doctors or basic health services. One of the focuses of National Health Center Week is to raise awareness of the critical need for primary health care services.

In Saint Louis County, however, access to care is much less of an issue, because the County Health Centers are available to every resident, regardless of ability to pay. All that is required is proof of residency, and, to be eligible for the sliding-scale payment plan, documentation of income.

The three health centers operated by the County Health Department are located, and can be contacted, as follows:

Saint Louis County residents can access many different primary care services at the three health centers, including pediatric services, adult medicine, women’s health services, eye care, foot care, STD testing and counseling, dental services, health education classes, immunizations, and WIC services.

A complete list of available services at the Saint Louis County Health Centers can be found on the following website:

www.stlouisco.com/doh/hlthctrs/services.html

Each year, National Health Center Week is a time set aside to recognize the more than 1,200 health centers serving more than 18 million people in nearly 7,000 urban and rural communities in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The important role they play in protecting the public health by providing affordable, high quality, cost-effective healthcare for people of all backgrounds and ages is integral to the overall success of American healthcare.

This year’s national theme is: “Celebrating America’s Health Centers: Where ACCESS and QUALITY CARE Begin.”

Throughout the nation, health centers provide many important benefits to society by filling critical gaps in the nation’s overall healthcare system. They often serve the working poor, the uninsured, the medically underserved, and many high-risk and vulnerable populations.

As part of National Health Center Week, the Saint Louis County Health Department will also be putting together a “Provider of the Month” campaign to highlight the many health professionals that provide medical services at the three County Health Centers throughout the year.

Each month, a particular provider will be recognized and highlighted at each of the three health centers. The first recognitions will start in September and three new providers will be highlighted every month thereafter.

For more information about the Saint Louis County Department of Health, please visit the following website:

www.stlouisco.com/doh

For more information about National Health Center Week, please visit the following website:

www.healthcenterweek.org

(August 10, 2009) The 2009-2010 flu season may be more severe than usual, especially given the continued presence of the new H1N1 virus (also called “swine flu”). In order to reduce the risk of flu-related complications this season, the Saint Louis County Department of Health is urging certain residents to get a pneumonia vaccination.

“One of the most serious threats posed by the flu, particularly among the elderly and small children, is pneumonia,” said Dr. Dolores J. Gunn, Director of the Saint Louis County Department of Health. “As public attention focuses on the new H1N1 virus and the approaching flu season, we are urging certain people to get a pneumonia vaccination, or a booster if their current vaccination is more than five (5) years old.”

Pneumonia is an infection of one or both lungs and some forms of pneumonia can be prevented by the pneumococcal vaccine. Pneumonia vaccinations are recommended for adults 65 years of age or older and for children under the age of five (5). Vaccinations are also recommended for persons with underlying health issues such as diabetes or heart disease.

“I want to be clear that the pneumonia vaccine is not a substitute for the new H1N1 vaccine or the seasonal flu vaccine – it will not prevent the flu,” said Dr. Gunn. “Also, the pneumococcal vaccine is not recommended for everyone. The health department is urging residents to talk with their medical provider about getting a vaccination or a booster for a previous vaccination.”

For a complete list of CDC recommendations concerning the pneumococcal vaccine, please visit the following website:

http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/ppsv_h1n1.htm

(August 7, 2009) After a relatively cool July, the heat of summer is returning and the Saint Louis County Health Department strongly urges continued caution and common sense during this new period of extreme heat.

“Saint Louis experiences periods of extreme heat every year and it is important to observe common sense precautions whenever this happens,” said Dr. Dolores Gunn, Director of the Health Department.

Whenever temperatures rise above 95 degrees, the Health Department recommends the following:

• Turn on the air conditioning to cool the air. Fans do not cool the air – they only move it around.
• Drink plenty of cool, non-alcoholic beverages, especially those without sugar or caffeine.
• Spend as little time as possible in the sun.
• Keep activity levels to a minimum.
• Take regular breaks in the shade or in an air-conditioned room.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Eat light, easily-digested foods, avoiding hot, heavy, or greasy meals.
• Do not leave food unrefrigerated – food spoils more rapidly in the heat.
• Take care of those who might not be aware of the danger or able to react accordingly –especially young children and the elderly. Check on your neighbors and relatives if they are vulnerable or do not have air conditioning.
• Know the signs of heat exhaustion. If someone becomes dizzy, nauseated, or sweats heavily, find a cooler location for him or her immediately.
• Know the signs of heat stroke. Heat stroke is much more serious than heat exhaustion. The symptoms are similar to heat exhaustion, but also include hot, flushed skin, and normally sweating stops. If heat stroke is a possibility, call 911 immediately. Heat stroke is life threatening!

Operation Weather Survival, a public and private collaboration, manages a network of cooling centers around the region. People needing a cool place to go are urged to visit one. To find a cool location, call the United Way by dialing 211 from your home landline, or by calling 1-800-427-4626.

Residents are also urged to consider pets whenever temperatures rise. Here are some tips for protecting pets during hot weather:

• Regularly check your pets’ water to make sure it’s clean and fresh. Ample drinking water is vital for animals during hot and humid conditions. Make sure to adjust the drinking quantity for the size and number of pets in the area. You can also spray your pets with water to cool them off.
• Provide a shady spot for your pets. A pen near trees will work, or you can fasten a sunroom screen to the sides and top of the pen to provide shade too.
• Never leave your pets unattended in a hot vehicle. Internal vehicle temperatures can reach 150 degrees.

Information about heat safety can be found by visiting the Saint Louis County Department of Health website:

www.stlouisco.com/doh/HeatAdvisories/HeatAdvisories.htm

(August 3, 2009) August is National Immunization Awareness Month, and with the back-to-school season just around the corner, the Saint Louis County Department of Health is taking the opportunity to remind parents and guardians to schedule school immunization appointments early.

“In protecting public health, prevention is always the best policy, and nothing compares to immunization when it comes to stopping the spread of disease,” said Dr. Dolores Gunn, Director of the County Health Department. “I encourage all parents and guardians to keep up-to-date with their children’s vaccinations. Kids that don’t catch disease can’t spread disease.”

Parents and guardians needing to schedule an appointment for back-to-school immunizations are urged to call their primary care provider as soon as possible. Those without a primary care provider or those unable to schedule an immunization appointment with their primary care provider before the start of school are urged to contact one of the following three County Health Centers to schedule an immunization appointment:

Additional information about childhood immunizations and the Saint Louis County Department of Health can be found on their website at:

www.stlouisco.com/doh

Additional information about National Immunization Awareness Month can be found on the following website:

www.cdc.gov/vaccines/events/niam/default.htm

(July 14, 2009) Fred Weber Inc. has made application to the Director of the Saint Louis County Department of Health for two proposed facilities – a compost facility and a waste processing facility – to be located at 2301 Creve Coeur Mill Road, Maryland Heights, Missouri, 63043. The waste processing facility would be adjacent to the sanitary landfill that is located at this address and the composting facility would be located in the permitted area of the landfill.

The legal description of the parcel is as follows: T46N, R5E, Sections 9 and 10 in the Village of Champ, Saint Louis County, Missouri.

In accordance with Chapter 607, Waste Management Code, the Health Department will hold a public hearing on Monday, August 3rd, 2009, at 7:00 p.m., in Room 3 of the Maryland Heights Community Centre, located at 2344 McKelvey Road, Maryland Heights, Missouri, 63043. The general public can comment on the new facility permit applications at the public hearing. Questions will not be answered during the hearing.

Written comments addressed to Dr. Dolores J. Gunn, Director of the Health Department, will be accepted up to ten (10) days after the public hearing (August 13th, 2009). Written comments can be e-mailed to waste.doh@stlouisco.com or mailed to:

                                        The Saint Louis County Department of Health
                                        Solid Waste Management Program
                                        4562 Lemay Ferry Road
                                        Saint Louis, MO 63129

To review the plans, please make an appointment to view them at the Saint Louis County South Government Center in Keller Plaza, located at 4562 Lemay Ferry Road, Saint Louis, Missouri, 63129 (phone: 314-615-4116); or at the Saint Louis County Health Department, 111 South Meramec Avenue, Clayton, Missouri, 63105 (phone 314-615-8958).

Please contact Jill Allen at 314-615-4130 with any questions or about any accommodations you may need to make the meeting site or information accessible. TTY: 314-615-8428 or 800-735-2966.

(June 26, 2009) The Saint Louis County Medical Examiner has confirmed two heat related deaths in the county during the current heat emergency.

In the first incident, a 75-year-old man was found in his Maplewood home Thursday. The room temperature was 96.4 degrees and a front room air conditioner was apparently not working.

In the second incident, a 62-year-old Hillsdale woman was discovered Thursday after neighbors reported that she had not been seen since Monday. The residence was not equipped with air conditioning.

There have been 41 heat-related illnesses since June 21^st.

“It is very important to check in regularly with elderly friends, family members, and neighbors, especially when temperatures rise above 95 degrees,” said Dr. Dolores Gunn, Director of the Health Department. “Air conditioners sometimes break down and alternate arrangements need to be made as soon as possible to prevent outcomes like this week’s tragedies.”

If you find yourself in temperatures above 95 degrees, take appropriate precautions such as:

• Spending time in an air-conditioned room or building. Even a few hours each day will reduce the danger of heat related complications.
• Drinking plenty of cool, non-alcoholic beverages, especially those without sugar or caffeine.
• Being aware that fans only move the air – they don’t cool it. Sitting directly in front of a fan when it is hotter than 95 degrees will actually heat you up.
• Taking a cool shower or bath to bring down your body temperature.
• Seeking immediate medical attention if you or someone you know is experiencing heat related symptoms such as nausea, a raised body temperature, or hot, dry skin. If heat stroke is a possibility, call 911immediately. Heat stroke is life threatening!

Saint Louis County is operating three cooling centers during the current heat emergency. The shelters are open from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. They are located at:

1. St. Vincent Community Center
   7335 St. Charles Rock Road
   Saint Louis, MO 63133
   


2. Queeny Park
   550 Weidman Road
   Ballwin, MO 63011
   


3. Kennedy Recreation Complex
   6050 Wells Road
   Saint Louis, MO 63128
   

Operation Weather Survival, a public and private collaboration, also manages a network of cooling centers around the region. People needing a cool place to go are urged to visit one. To find a cooling center, call the United Way at 1-800-427-4626.

There were no reported heat deaths in 2008.

(June 23, 2009) Three cooling centers have been opened by the Saint Louis County Parks Department for those who need a place to cool off during the current heat emergency. The centers will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. through Wednesday, June 24th, or for as long as the current excessive heat grips the area.

The three cooling centers opened by Saint Louis County are located as follows:

1. St. Vincent Community Center
   7335 St. Charles Rock Road
   Saint Louis, MO 63133
   


2. Queeny Park
   550 Weidman Road
   Ballwin, MO 63011
   


3. Kennedy Recreation Complex
   6050 Wells Road
   Saint Louis, MO 63128
   

Whenever temperatures rise above 95 degrees, the Health Department recommends the following:

• Turn on the air conditioning to cool the air.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Spend as little time as possible in the sun and keep activity levels to a minimum.
• Drink plenty of cool, non-alcoholic beverages, especially those without sugar or caffeine.
• Take regular breaks in the shade or in an air-conditioned room.
• Eat light, easily-digested foods, avoiding hot, heavy, or greasy meals.
• Be sure not to leave food unrefrigerated for long – food spoils rapidly in the heat.
• Take care of those who might not be aware of the danger or able to react accordingly –especially young children and the elderly. Check on your neighbors and relatives if they may be vulnerable or do not have air conditioning.
• Know the signs of heat exhaustion. If someone becomes dizzy, nauseated, or sweats heavily, find a cooler location for him or her immediately.
• Know the signs of heat stroke. Heat stroke is much more serious than heat exhaustion. The symptoms are similar to heat exhaustion, but also include hot, flushed skin, and normally sweating stops. If heat stroke is a possibility, call 911 immediately. Heat stroke is life threatening!

(June 23, 2009) A bat should not be touched or released if it is discovered in a residential area, according to the Saint Louis County Department of Health. County animal control officers will pick up a bat at no charge if it is discovered in a home so it can be tested for rabies.

Residents should not attempt to capture a live bat but should confine it to the room where it is discovered so animal control officers can collect it for rabies testing. During business hours, residents should call 314-831-6500. After business hours, and on weekends and holidays, county residents should call Saint Louis County Police at 314-889-2341.

Never release a bat found in a home if it was present while people were sleeping or in the same room with children or adults who, due to health or age, may not be able to describe the extent of their exposure.

“It’s important that a bat that may have bitten a human be tested for rabies as soon as possible,” said La’Rhonda Garrett-Wheelington DOH Program Manager of Vector Control and Veterinary Services. “If the bat is released or disposed of, it is very difficult to determine if a person could have been exposed to rabies.”

Rabies can be prevented if a person is vaccinated soon after exposure, but there is no cure once symptoms start. A south central Missouri man died from rabies last fall after being bitten by a bat. It was the first reported rabies death in Missouri since 1959.

Bats eat mosquitoes and recent heavy rains have boosted the mosquito population, Garrett-Wheelington said.

Garrett-Wheelington said people should check with their veterinarians on the immunization status of their pets. Because rabies can be readily passed from wild animals to domestic pets, the first line of defense is to make sure all cats and dogs are properly vaccinated, as required by county ordinances.

For more information about pet vaccinations, visit www.stlouisco.com/doh and click on Animal Control.

(June 22, 2009) The Saint Louis County Health Department is strongly urging caution and common sense during periods of extreme heat this summer.

“Saint Louis experiences heat waves almost every year and it is important to observe common sense precautions whenever this happens,” said Dr. Dolores Gunn, director of the Health Department.

Whenever temperatures rise above 95 degrees, the Health Department recommends the following:

• Turn on the air conditioning to cool the air.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Spend as little time as possible in the sun and keep activity levels to a minimum.
• Drink plenty of cool, non-alcoholic beverages, especially those without sugar or caffeine.
• Take regular breaks in the shade or in an air-conditioned room.
• Eat light, easily-digested foods, avoiding hot, heavy, or greasy meals.
• Be sure not to leave food unrefrigerated for long – food spoils rapidly in the heat.
• Take care of those who might not be aware of the danger or able to react accordingly –especially young children and the elderly. Check on your neighbors and relatives if they may be vulnerable or do not have air conditioning.
• Know the signs of heat exhaustion. If someone becomes dizzy, nauseated, or sweats heavily, find a cooler location for him or her immediately.
• Know the signs of heat stroke. Heat stroke is much more serious than heat exhaustion. The symptoms are similar to heat exhaustion, but also include hot, flushed skin, and normally sweating stops. If heat stroke is a possibility, call 911 immediately. Heat stroke is life threatening!

Operation Weather Survival, a public and private collaboration, manages a network of cooling centers around the region. People needing a cool place to go are urged to visit a one. To find a cooling center, call the United Way at 1-800-427-4626.

Residents are also urged to consider pets whenever temperatures rise. Here are some tips for protecting pets during hot weather:

• Regularly check a pet’s water to make sure it’s clean and fresh. Ample drinking water is vital to animals during hot and humid conditions. Make sure to adjust the drinking quantity for the size and number of pets in the area. You can also spray your pet with water to cool them off.
• Provide a shady spot for pets. A pen near trees will work or you can fasten a sunroom screen to the sides and top of the pen to provide shade too.
• Never leave your pet unattended in a hot vehicle. Internal vehicle temperatures can reach 150 degrees.

(June 15, 2009) West Nile Virus-carrying mosquitoes have been discovered throughout the county, although no human cases have been reported, according to the Saint Louis County Department of Health.

Positive results have been reported in mosquitoes in several Central County areas, including St. John, Hanley Hills, Bel-Nor and Pagedale.

WNV-carrying mosquitoes have also been discovered in Frontenac, Lemay, Sunset Hills and Jefferson Barracks County Park, Florissant and Mehlville.

“Positive mosquito tests are a reminder that preventative measures are important,” said Saint Louis County Health Department Director Dr. Dolores J. Gunn. “Even though serious West Nile Virus cases in humans are rare, it is important to minimize our exposure. We can do this by eliminating opportunities for mosquitoes to breed and multiply and protect ourselves by using repellants,” Dr. Gunn said.

Floodwater mosquitoes, which do not carry WNV, have been emerging in recent weeks and are active in daylight hours as well as being attracted to bright lights at night.

Here are steps residents can take to reduce the opportunities for mosquitoes to flourish:

• Flexible drainage pipe is commonly used to drain water from downspouts. A big drawback is that it holds water and breeds mosquitoes if not properly sloped when installed.
• At least once a week, drain water from garbage cans, buckets, toys, flowerpots, wading pools, pet dishes, and other objects that can collect water. Change water in birdbaths at least once a week.
• Look for products containing the active ingredient methoprene or Bti (Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis) to place in birdbaths or ponds, to prevent mosquitoes from developing.
• Keep gutters cleaned out, and repair any tears in door and window screens.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and light colors outdoors.
• Spray clothing with repellents containing DEET or picaridin.

The Health Department routinely collects mosquito samples to test and help determine where to focus control efforts. Vector Control monitors and treats standing water in public areas as part of It’s preventative larviciding program. To find out where the county will be spraying, call 615-4-B-U-G for the nightly mosquito-spraying schedule.

For more information on mosquito prevention, contact the County Vector Control office at 314-727-3097 or log on to www.stlouisco.com/doh.

(May 19, 2009) The recent death of a Saint Louis County resident infected with the 2009 H1N1 virus (“swine flu”) is a reminder that people should continue to take precautions to avoid a flu infection.

“The Health Department would like to extend its condolences to the family and friends of the deceased,” said Dr. Dolores J. Gunn, Director of the Saint Louis County Health Department. “Situations like this are always tragic – but it serves to remind us that flu is still with us. Until the threat has passed, everyone needs to avoid behavior that can spread the flu. Wash your hands regularly. Cover your sneeze or cough with your sleeve. And if you do get sick, stay home from work or school until you are better.”

This particular case appears to have been more serious than is usual and an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of death and who else may have been exposed to the virus through contact with the 44-year-old male victim. It is known that the deceased visited Mexico recently and it is presumed that he contracted the virus while there. The Health Department, in conjunction with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), will continue to investigate the case, with final results not expected for several weeks.

Since the arrival of 2009 H1N1 in the United States, the county health department has increased its regular surveillance of emergency rooms, doctors’ offices, schools, and pharmacies – all so that any local increase in flu-like symptoms can be identified as soon as possible. The health department has also been in regular contact with DHSS and local health departments to learn of other cases of 2009 H1N1 in the area.

The typical symptoms of 2009 H1N1 flu are similar to those of the common flu: fever, fatigue, lack of appetite, coughing, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If a person experiences any of these symptoms – especially a fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher – the person should contact a doctor for further evaluation.

Although there is currently no vaccine to prevent 2009 H1N1, there are treatments available. According to Dr. Gunn, “There are two antiviral medications effective in treating 2009 H1N1: Tamiflu® and Relenza®. However, no one should take Tamiflu® or Relenza® unless prescribed by a doctor.”

The health department is also urging county residents to avoid requesting prescription antiviral medications unless they actually have flu-like symptoms. Said Dr. Gunn, “If you develop flu-like symptoms, check with a doctor to see if antivirals are appropriate – but if you don’t have flu-like symptoms, it is unlikely that you have the flu.”

Saint Louis County physicians and hospital emergency rooms have been provided with the latest detailed information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – including the appropriate testing procedures to use when 2009 H1N1 flu is suspected. General precautionary information has also been sent to schools, daycares, businesses, and other local governments.

Although flu-like symptoms usually appear within one (1) to four (4) days after infection, they can emerge as many as seven (7) days after exposure to the virus. Anyone who thinks they may have been infected should contact a medical provider. According to Dr. Gunn, knowledge and common sense are the key: “People can be safe if they take the right steps. Know the possible symptoms. Know what to do if you experience symptoms. And be sure to take all the usual precautions to avoid catching or spreading the flu virus.”

For more information about the 2009 H1N1 flu, please visit the Saint Louis County Department of Health’s website for 2009 H1N1 flu at:
www.stlouisco.com/doh/Flu/New_H1N1.htm.

(May 18, 2009) The warmer weather marks the awakening of bats from hibernation, and the Saint Louis County Department of Health is cautioning residents to avoid handling the animals, since some can carry rabies. Four bats that tested positive for rabies were recovered recently in west and south St. Louis County; University City and Affton.

Any county resident who encounters a live or dead bat in their home is urged to call the health department. Residents should not attempt to capture a live bat but should confine it to the room where it is discovered so animal control officers can collect it for rabies testing.

Never release a bat found in a home if it was present while people were sleeping or in the same room with children or adults who, due to health or age, may not be able to describe the extent of their exposure.

During business hours, residents should call (314) 831-6500. After business hours, and on weekends and holidays, county residents should call Saint Louis County Police at (314) 889-2341.

Last year, 377 bats were tested and 20 had rabies, said La’Rhonda Garrett-Wheelington, DOH Program Manager of Vector Control and Veterinary Services.

Health officials urge people to be aware of and cautious around wildlife, especially bats, and to avoid direct contact with any animal that is behaving strangely. Children should be taught to stay a safe distance away from any unknown animals.

Garrett-Wheelingtion said people should check with their veterinarians on the immunization status of their pets. Because rabies can be readily passed from wild animals to domestic pets, the first line of defense is to make sure all cats and dogs are properly vaccinated, as required by county ordinances. Once transmitted, the disease of rabies has no cure and is almost always fatal.

Most bats don't carry rabies, and in fact perform a beneficial service by eating large quantities of insects. But if one bat in a colony contracts rabies, chances are it will spread to other members of the colony.

For more information about pet vaccinations, visit www.stlouisco.com/doh and click on Animal Control.

(May 8, 2009) The Saint Louis County Department of Health is urging parents of children with flu-like symptoms to keep them out of school. Two Saint Louis County high school students have been diagnosed with the 2009 H1N1 virus (swine flu).

“Our advice to parents is the same as for any type of contagious illness: the patient should stay home and get plenty of rest,” said Saint Louis County Health Department Director Dr. Dolores J. Gunn.

The health department is working closely with all the schools in the county to provide medical information and track any suspected cases. Dr. Gunn recommended that school administrators follow recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for handling cases of the 2009 H1N1 virus.

The CDC has said that the most recent cases of 2009 H1N1 have almost the same symptoms and outcome as the common flu that occurs during flu season every year. The CDC also recommends that any students, staff, or teachers who become ill simply stay home until better – schools do not need to close. At this point, 2009 H1N1 should be treated no differently that the common flu. Dr. Gunn also cautioned that there is no need for residents to rush out and purchase antiviral medication.

The typical symptoms of 2009 H1N1 are similar to those of the common flu: fever, tiredness, lack of appetite, coughing, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Over the past two weeks, the County Health Department has increased its regular surveillance of emergency rooms, doctors’ offices, and pharmacies – all so that any general increase in flu-like symptoms can be identified as soon as possible. To date, no general increase has been detected. The health department is also in close contact with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and other area health departments to learn of any other suspected or confirmed cases of 2009 H1N1 flu in the region.

The health department is also urging county residents to avoid requesting prescription antiviral medications unless they actually have flu-like symptoms. Said Dr. Gunn, “If you develop flu-like symptoms, check with your doctor to see if antivirals are appropriate – but if you don’t have flu-like symptoms, it is unlikely that you have the flu.”

For more information about the 2009 H1N1 flu, please visit the Saint Louis County Department of Health’s website for 2009 H1N1 flu at: www.stlouisco.com/doh/Flu/New_H1N1.htm.

(May 7, 2009) The Saint Louis County Department of Health is cautioning residents that confirmed cases of 2009 H1N1 (swine flu) in Saint Louis County should not cause anyone to rush out to purchase antiviral medications.

“Anyone who has flu-like symptoms should see a doctor, but at this time there is no indication of a large swine flu outbreak here,” said Dr. Dolores J. Gunn, Director of the County Health Department.

Late Wednesday, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) confirmed to the County Health Department that a Saint Louis County resident has 2009 H1N1 flu (swine flu); however, the county health department is emphasizing that this should not alarm anyone. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has said the most recent cases of 2009 H1N1 have almost the same symptoms and outcome as the common flu that occurs during flu season every year.  The CDC has also changed its recommendations for schools, now suggesting that any students, staff, or teachers who become ill simply stay home until better – schools do not need to close.  At this point, 2009 H1N1 should be treated no differently that the common flu.

Although there is currently no vaccine to prevent 2009 H1N1, there are treatments available for people diagnosed with the disease.  According to Dr. Gunn, “There are two antiviral medications effective in treating swine flu: Tamiflu® and Relenza®.  However, no one should take Tamiflu® or Relenza® unless prescribed by a doctor.”

The typical symptoms of the 2009 H1N1 flu are similar to those of the common flu: fever, tiredness, lack of appetite, coughing, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Over the past two weeks, the County Health Department has increased its regular surveillance of emergency rooms, doctors’ offices, and pharmacies – all so that any general increase in flu-like symptoms can be identified as soon as possible.  To date, no general increase has been detected.  The health department is also in close contact with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and other area health departments to learn of any other suspected or confirmed cases of 2009 H1N1 flu in the region.

The health department is also urging county residents to avoid requesting prescription antiviral medications unless they actually have flu-like symptoms.  Said Dr. Gunn, “If you develop flu-like symptoms, check with your doctor to see if antivirals are appropriate – but if you don’t have flu-like symptoms, it is unlikely that you have the flu.”

For more information about the 2009 H1N1 flu, please visit the Saint Louis County Department of Health’s website for 2009 H1N1 flu at: www.stlouisco.com/doh/Flu/New_H1N1.htm.

(April 28, 2009) Although there are still no reported cases of swine flu in the Saint Louis area, the Saint Louis County Department of Health continues to monitor the situation and is prepared to respond if any cases are reported.

“This particular strain of swine flu is quite contagious and it may end up infecting many people around the world; however, the good news is that it is not usually fatal,” said Dr. Dolores J. Gunn, Director of the County Health Department.

The typical symptoms of swine flu are similar to those of the common flu: fever, tiredness, lack of appetite, coughing, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If a person experiences any of these symptoms – especially a fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher – the person should contact his or her family doctor for evaluation.

This strain of influenza is called “swine flu” because it originated in pigs. However, the strain has mutated and it now capable of being transmitted directly from human to human. While the original transmission was from a live pig to a human, the virus cannot be transmitted from pork products – it is still safe to eat pork.

There is currently no vaccine to prevent this strain of swine flu, and it could take four to six months before one becomes available. However, if a person is diagnosed with it, there are treatments available. According to Dr. Gunn, “There are two antiviral medications that are effective in treating swine flu: Tamiflu® and Relenza®. However, they cannot prevent swine flu – they can only treat it after a person has been infected. No one should take Tamiflu® or Relenza® unless prescribed by a doctor.”

The county health department has increased its regular surveillance of emergency rooms, doctors’ offices, and pharmacies – all so that any local increase in flu-like symptoms can be identified as soon as possible. The health department is also in close contact with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and other area health departments to learn of any other suspected cases of swine flu.

Saint Louis County physicians and hospital emergency rooms have also been contacted by the health department with the latest detailed information on swine flu and the appropriate testing procedures to use when swine flu is suspected.

Symptoms usually appear within one (1) to four (4) days after infection. Anyone who thinks they may have swine flu should contact his or her medical provider. According to Dr. Gunn, knowledge and common sense are the key:

“Although we don’t currently have any cases of swine flu in the Saint Louis area, people need to know how to handle it should it arrive. Know the possible symptoms. Know what to do if you experience symptoms. Take all the usual precautions such as regular hand-washing, covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, avoiding those who are sick, and staying at home if you become sick.”

For more information about swine flu, please visit the website for the Saint Louis County Department of Health at www.stlouisco.com/doh.

(April 13, 2009) The Saint Louis County Department of Health has launched its Spay and Neuter Assistance Program, a financial assistance program that will help Saint Louis County residents save $50 to $80 on the cost of spaying and neutering pets.

The Spay and Neuter Assistance Program was created to help control pet overpopulation in Saint Louis County; in addition to helping prevent thousands of animal euthanizations each year,” said Dr. Dolores J. Gunn, Saint Louis County Health Department Director. “Unaltered animals have the potential to produce thousands of offspring, and the program will help prevent this, while keeping our streets safer from feral animals and the disturbances these animals can create.”

A limited number of vouchers are available to Saint Louis County pet owners with a current rabies tag issued by the county. As quantities are available, pet owners are allowed vouchers for every qualifying pet.

The voucher can be used at nearly all veterinarian clinics in Saint Louis County and participating clinics in surrounding areas. Participating veterinarians will subtract the value on the voucher from the cost of the spaying or neutering procedure, and the pet owner will pay the difference. Values range between $50 and $80, depending on the type and gender of the animal undergoing the procedure. Vouchers are available at the following Saint Louis County animal shelters:

North Shelter 4100 Seven Hills Florissant, MO 63033 (314) 831-6500

South Shelter 77 Hunter Avenue Ladue, MO 63124 (314) 726-6655

The voucher program is funded by an ordinance that went into effect in Saint Louis County on Jan. 1, 2006. The regulation places one dollar from every rabies tag sold in the county into a fund for reduced-cost spays and neuters. Approximately 10,000 rabies tags are sold in Saint Louis County each month.

For more information about the reduced-cost spay and neuter program, or to find a list of participating veterinary clinics, visit http://www.co.st-louis.mo.us/doh/.

(April 10, 2009) St. Louis Composting has made application to the Director of the Saint Louis County Health Department for permit expansion of the operating license for the Missouri Pass Waste Processing Facility located at 11294 Schaefer Drive, Maryland Heights, Missouri, 63043. The company currently operates a four (4) acre waste processing facility and is applying to expand the permitted area by 5.3 acres, and add Class B (Demolition and Construction) and Class D (Organic) materials to the list of approved materials accepted at the facility.

The legal description of the parcel is as follows: SE ¼, NE ¼, Section 26, Township 46 North, Range 5 East, Maryland Heights, Saint Louis County, Missouri.

In accordance with Chapter 607, Saint Louis County Waste Management Code, the Department of Health will hold a public hearing on Monday, May 4th, 2009, at 7:00 p.m., in Room 3 of the Maryland Heights Community Centre, located at 2344 McKelvey Road, Maryland Heights, Missouri, 63043.

The general public will be able comment on the permit expansion request at the public hearing and have their comments entered into the official record. Questions will not be answered during the meeting. Written comments addressed to Dr. Dolores J. Gunn, Director of the Health Department, will be accepted up to ten (10) days after the public hearing (May 14th, 2009). Written comments can be e-mailed to waste.doh@stlouisco.com or mailed to:

Saint Louis County Department of Health Solid Waste Management Program 4562 Lemay Ferry Road Saint Louis, MO 63129

To review the plans, please make an appointment at the Saint Louis County Government Center:

Keller Plaza 4562 Lemay Ferry Road Saint Louis, MO 63129 Phone: (314) 615-4116

Or at the Saint Louis County Health Department:

111 South Meramec Avenue Clayton, MO 63105 Phone: (314) 615-8958

Contact Jill Allen at (314) 615-4130 about any questions or any accommodations you may need to make the meeting site or information accessible. TTY: (314) 615-8428 or 1-800-735-2966.

(April 10, 2009) With the arrival of warmer weather comes more outdoor recreation. Physical activity is a good thing and the Saint Louis County Department of Health urges everyone to be as active as possible – but the department also urges everyone, regardless of age, to wear a safety helmet whenever riding a bike, skateboard, or scooter, or when using roller skates or roller blades. Remember, while scrapes and even broken bones may heal, injured brains don’t.

“Recreation is great for your health, but only if done safely,” said Dr. Dolores J. Gunn, Director of the County Health Department. “We encourage everyone to be physically active … but if you are cycling or skating, please wear a safety helmet and protect your brain.”

For those under the age of 17, it isn’t just a matter of safety – it’s the law. Last year the Saint Louis County Council passed an ordinance requiring children aged one (1) through sixteen (16) to wear appropriate safety gear:

The measure was designed to promote proper safety habits among children and teenagers while playing and exercising. The new ordinance took effect on December 26th, 2008. Although there is a small $10 fine associated with violating the ordinance, its real intent was to raise awareness of the issue; fines will only be issued to those who have been caught violating the ordinance three (3) or more times in any given twelve-month period.

Some cities and municipalities already have helmet laws stricter than the county ordinance. In such cases, people must obey the stricter law. For information about existing municipal helmet laws, residents are encouraged to call or visit their local city hall or visit the Saint Louis County Department of Health website (link below) which has a summary of the municipal laws.

Helmets are generally inexpensive, often costing $15 or less. However, for those who cannot afford to buy one, a limited number of free safety helmets are available at several locations throughout the county.

For more information about the new County Helmet Ordinance, a summary of municipal safety helmet laws, or a list of locations that are providing free safety helmets, please visit the Health Department’s website at:

(April 7, 2009) National Public Health Week, which runs from April 6th through April 12th this year, is a wonderful time to reflect on the many good things brought to us by the public health community. One local effort – the Building Blocks Program (known nationally as the Nurse-Family Partnership Program) – recently celebrated its third anniversary, and it remains a shining example of the best that public health has to offer.

“Although we are very proud of all our public health efforts, we are especially proud of the good work being done by the folks in the Building Blocks Program,” said Dr. Dolores J. Gunn, Director of the County Health Department. “Nothing we do is more important for future generations than making sure our children are safe, healthy, and well-cared for.”

The Nurse-Family Partnership is a nationally-recognized, evidence-based prevention program implemented in 2005 by the Saint Louis County Department of Health. In Missouri, it is called the “Building Blocks Program,” and it is sponsored by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, which issues grants to participating agencies. Although available in the Saint Louis area for just over three (3) years, variations of the national program have been around for more than three (3) decades.

Building Blocks is a voluntary prevention program that provides in-home nurse visits to low income, first-time mothers. Home visits for eligible women start early in the pregnancy and continue until the resulting child is two (2) years old. The visits serve many different purposes, but beyond the obvious health-related results, women being served receive support, education, and counseling on a variety of issues. Research over the last 30 years has shown that such programs yield very positive results, including improved prenatal health, fewer subsequent pregnancies, higher maternal employment, less child abuse and neglect, and improved school readiness among the children.

The national Nurse-Family Partnership Program has been praised by the National Institute for Early Education Research, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the U.S. Department of Justice, the Office of the Surgeon General, and the President’s New Freedom Commission. A 2004 cost/benefit analysis by the Washington State Institute for Public Policy showed an overall savings of $17,180 for each child born to a Nurse-Family Partnership mother.

There are currently about 100 young mothers being served in the Building Blocks Nurse-Family Partnership Program throughout the Saint Louis region. The program changes the life trajectories of both mother and child, thus benefitting multiple generations.

“We are so thrilled to be serving so many women and children in the Saint Louis area,” said Vanessa Davis, Nurse Supervisor of the Saint Louis site. “It is truly an honor to be a part of such an amazing program, and I know that all my fellow nurses feel the same way.”

Because of the many local successes around the country, national implementation of this important program is now underway, and the program is currently serving more than 22,000 families in 21 states. It truly represents the best of public health efforts throughout the nation.

For more information about the local Building Blocks Nurse-Family Partnership Program, please visit its website at the Saint Louis County Department of Health:

For more information about the national Nurse-Family Partnership Program, please visit their website at:

(April 6, 2009) National Public Health Week 2009 runs from April 6th through April 12th. The theme this year is “Building the Foundation for a Healthy America.” Throughout the week – and indeed throughout the entire year – the Saint Louis County Department of Health urges people to be more aware of the efforts made by public health agencies to safeguard the standard of living we enjoy in this county.

“From the moment you pour milk over your cereal in the morning to the minute you lay your head on a pillow in the evening, public health agencies play a role in keeping you and your family safe and healthy,” said Dr. Dolores J. Gunn, Director of the Saint Louis County Department of Health.

The Saint Louis County Health Department is using National Public Health Week as an opportunity to highlight the many different programs it has to safeguard public health – programs that include, among others, milk testing, animal control, vital records management, disease tracking, emergency preparedness, air monitoring, immunizations, primary health clinics, recycling education, restaurant inspections, lead testing, and mosquito control.

However, despite the efforts of the many public health agencies around the country, there remains room for improvement. Despite being one of the wealthiest nations in the world, the United States has one of the lowest life expectancy rates among developed countries, and babies born in America are three times more likely to die than those born in some developing nations. In addition, America has made the top 10 list of countries with the most people living with HIV/AIDS, obesity rates are up 36 percent in the past 20 years, and one out of two young people who start and continue to smoke will be killed by a tobacco-related illness. In short, more needs to be done.

The national organization sponsoring National Public Health Week has designated a focus for each day of the week. Monday’s efforts are meant to highlight the things public health agencies do to help “Our Nation”. Tuesday’s efforts are focused on “Our Community”. The theme for Wednesday is “Our Workplace”. Thursday’s focus is “Our Schools”. And Friday’s theme is “Your Home”.

Throughout the week, the Saint Louis County Department of Health will be focusing its efforts on each of these five (5) areas to raise awareness in the community of the many things the department does to promote public health in the Saint Louis area. The department urges all residents to learn more about what your local Health Department does for you.

For more information about the Saint Louis County Department of Health, please visit our website at:
                                                www.stlouisco.com/doh

For more information about National Public Health Week, please visit the official NPHW website at:
                                                       www.NPHW.org

(March 18, 2009) The recent attack of a Connecticut woman by a pet chimpanzee has prompted the Saint Louis County Department of Health to remind residents that nondomestic animals require a license.

Nondomestic animals include all cats except house cats, nonhuman primates, bears, wolves, coyotes and venomous reptiles.

County residents who plan to own nondomestic animals are required by ordinance to contact the health department for an inspection of the living conditions for the animal.

“We want to make sure that living conditions are safe for the owner, the general population and the animal.” said La’Rhonda Garrett-Wheelington, program manager for the health department’s animal control division.

The owner will be required to provide proof of insurance to pay for any damages or injury caused by the animal, according to the Nondomestic Animal Code enacted by the county in 1982. Owners must notify the health department if the animal is sold or given away.

To apply for a permit, call one of the animal shelters at 314-831-6500 or 314-726-6655.

(March 09, 2009) As part of its responsibility to provide leadership and respond effectively during a public health emergency, the Saint Louis County Department of Health is seeking volunteers with military or first responder experience to provide leadership at Point of Dispensing Sites (PODS).

PODS will be opened during a public health emergency to dispense medicine and volunteers who have organizational leadership experience in the military, or as a first responder, are needed to fill supervisory and management roles. These volunteers will be part of a group that will operate the PODS that will be established throughout the county.

“Former military personnel and first responders can offer leadership skills that will help the health department serve the public during an emergency,” said Dr. Dolores J. Gunn, health department director.

The health department will provide training and support for volunteers.

For more information, contact the Department of Health Emergency Preparedness Group at (314) 615-1623 or email: ep.doh@stlouisco.com.

(February 10, 2009) The Saint Louis County Department of Health, which regularly tracks cases of seasonal influenza, has noted a marked increase in flu cases over the last two weeks.

For the week ending February 8th, 2009, the County Health Department received reports of 85 laboratory-confirmed flu cases, as compared to 66 cases for the previous week, and just 15 cases the week before that.

“The recent increase in reported flu cases is a reminder that it is important to get a flu shot and take other preventative measures,” said Dr. Dolores J. Gunn, Director of the Health Department.

The following three age groups have been the most affected so far this flu season: 5 to 14-year-olds; 15 to 24-year-olds; and 25 to 49-year olds. Last year, the most affected age group was the 25 to 49-year-olds. There have been a total of 224 cases of flu so far this season.

Dr. Gunn cautions, “It is important to get a flu shot this year for three reasons: 1) your health; 2) the health of others who may be exposed if you are infected; and, 3) for the first time, the strain of flu circulating this year is likely to be resistant to the most commonly used medication to treat it. Virtually all of the influenza A subtype H1N1 circulating in the United States this year is resistant to Oseltamivir (brand name Tamiflu®), thus limiting the options for effective treatment. We may think of the influenza season as a routine annual event, but we should recognize both the impact it has on our health as well as the burden it places on emergency medical services.”

In addition to getting a flu shot, there are other steps you can take to reduce your chances of getting the flu:

• Try to keep a distance of three feet away from others.
• Always cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough. If you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve.
• Wash your hands frequently, especially after sneezing, coughing or blowing your nose.
• Stay home if you are ill.

To view the Weekly Flu Report, visit www.SaintLouisCountyFlu.com and select the appropriate link.

To find out where to go for vaccinations (or to find more information about the flu), call the Flu Vaccination Hotline or visit the Saint Louis County Flu website:

(February 2, 2009) The Missouri Institute for Community Health (or MICH) – the statewide organization that accredits local health departments in Missouri – has officially renewed the comprehensive accreditation status of the Saint Louis County Department of Health. Earlier today, MICH presented the department with a plaque recognizing the comprehensive re-accreditation during a ceremony in the offices of County Executive Charlie A. Dooley.

“We’re very excited about this,” said Dr. Dolores J. Gunn, Director of the County Health Department. “We have long felt that we are doing wonderful work in the area of public health, but it is quite gratifying to have an outside organization validate that belief through a comprehensive review of our activities.”

There are three levels of accreditation granted by the Missouri Institute for Community Health: 1) primary; 2) advanced; and 3) comprehensive. The Saint Louis County Health Department has qualified for the most extensive of these levels – comprehensive accreditation – a distinction currently shared by only one other health departments in the state.

Being accredited in Missouri is voluntary; however, health departments that do choose to seek comprehensive accreditation status must demonstrate that they are ensuring all aspects of ten (10) essential public health services by complying with over 300 specific performance measures spanning the full range of public health activities. In addition, such departments must show that they are working cooperatively with community partners to ensure health care access for all members of the community. Comprehensive accreditation status therefore represents a proven commitment to excellence.

The Saint Louis County Department of Health was awarded its comprehensive re-accreditation status based on a record of 100% compliance with all performance measures – an outstanding achievement.

The department spent months preparing required documentation before hosting a visit by the official MICH accreditation team last September. The accreditation team made a report to the MICH Board which then voted to renew the comprehensive accreditation status of the department based on the findings. This newly acquired status will last for three (3) years, at which time the department will once again be required to demonstrate its compliance in order to achieve renewal.

In addition to County Executive Charlie A. Dooley and Director of the Department, Dr. Dolores Gunn, the re-accreditation ceremony was attended by the President of the MICH Board of Directors, Diane Sterett, the Co-Director of MICH, Janet Canavese, the Chair of the MICH Accreditation Council, Steve Fine, and Anne E. Lock, the Director of the Center for Local Public Health Services (a division of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services).

Additional information about the Saint Louis County Department of Health can be found on their website: www.stlouisco.com/doh.

Additional information about the Missouri Institute for Community Health can be found on their website: www.michweb.org.

(January 23, 2009) Fred Weber, Inc., has submitted an application to the Director of the Saint Louis County Health Department for a permit expansion of the operating license for its sanitary landfill located at 2320 Creve Coeur Mill Road, southeast of the Earth City Expressway (located in the Village of Champ, Missouri, 63043). The company currently operates a sanitary landfill on the 511 acre parcel and wishes to expand the permitted area by 30 acres and raise the permitted final elevation.

The legal description of the parcel is as follows: Section 9 and 10, Township 46 North, Range 5 East, Village of Champ, Saint Louis County, Missouri.

In accordance with Chapter 607, Waste Management Code, the Health Department will hold a public hearing on Monday, February 23rd, 2009, at 7:00 p.m. in the Maryland Heights Community Centre, Room 3, located at 2344 McKelvey Road, Maryland Heights, Missouri, 63043. The general public will have the opportunity to comment on the license request at the public hearing and have their comments entered into the official record. Questions will not be answered during the meeting; responses will be issued at a later date.

To review the plans, interested parties can make an appointment at the Saint Louis County South Government Center, Keller Plaza, 4562 Lemay Ferry Road, Saint Louis, Missouri, 63129 (phone: 314-615-4116), or at the Saint Louis County Health Department, 111 S. Meramec Avenue, Clayton, Missouri, 63105 (phone 314-615-8958). Contact Jill Allen at 314-615-4130 with any questions or requests for accommodation you may need to make the meeting site or information accessible. (TTY: 314-615-8428 or 1-800-735-2966.)