As the infant formula shortage continues in the US, many families are struggling to access the products they rely on to feed their babies. The Moultrie County Health Department (MCHD) wants our local families and residents to be aware of available resources.
Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is caused by damage to nerve cells (neurons) in the brain and is a progressive disease. The neurons damaged first are those in parts of the brain responsible for memory, language, and thinking. As a result, the first symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease tend to be mild memory loss, impaired language skills, and difficulty thinking clearly.
Warning issued: The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) warns that some jars of Jif brand peanut butter may be contaminated with a strain of Salmonella that is making people sick.
Some vector-borne diseases will produce few noticeable symptoms in an infected person, and the illness may go undetected. However, the same diseases can also cause significant discomfort and illness, Including life-long disabilities or even death. The following is basic information on West Nile virus and Lyme disease, both of which are carried by vectors common in Central Illinois.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that one in six Americans (48 million people) become sick from food poisoning each year. These incidents send 128,000 Americans to the hospital, and an estimated 3,000 die annually from foodborne illnesses. Food safety is especially important as we approach Memorial Day weekend. This weekend traditionally marks the beginning of summer activities, many of which will involve preparing and serving food for family and friends.
A stroke occurs when something blocks the blood supply to a part of the brain. It also occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures. When either occurs, parts of the brain can become damaged or die. A stroke can cause lasting brain damage, long-term disability, or death. Learn how to identify a possible stroke and what to do.
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced up to $3.7 million in grants are available for communities outside of Cook County to address and implement COVID-19 health equity strategies.
West Nile virus (WNV), Lyme disease, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), are the most commonly reported human vector-borne diseases (VBDs) in Illinois. As summer approaches and more people are inclined to engage in outdoor activities, tick and mosquito vectors are also becoming more active, increasing the risk of disease transmission to humans.
Immunizations (vaccines) help protect you from diseases caused by bacteria or viruses. What’s more, your immunity to these illnesses also protects others around you. As adults, most of us live busy lives with many responsibilities. The last thing you want to do is risk getting sick with a preventable infection.
Herd immunity occurs when a significant portion of a population becomes immune to an infectious disease, limiting disease spread. When there are limits on the spread of the disease, even those not already immune have a reduced risk of exposure. Reducing the risk of disease spread is especially critical in protecting individuals who can’t be vaccinated. These would include newborns, those with compromised immune systems, and those who cannot tolerate the vaccine.