We acknowledge that there have been extended waiting periods for families to be seen for WIC services in Duval County. In order to expedite the process, we are coordinating efforts with other county Departments of Health in Florida to streamline the process as follows:

1. The initial intake will be done by DOH staff and the family will receive an unfunded EBT card at that visit.
2. They will then be scheduled with a Registered Dietician/Nutrition Educator for a “TeleWic” visit that can be done across county lines to improve access. The EBT card will be activated once this visit is completed. This visit only requires telephone communication and is not a video call.
3. Priority clients include NICU babies, homeless, those under 6 months, migrant farmer families.
4.  This process should take less than 2-3 weeks.

This process has already allowed 181 additional appointments for clients to be seen per week and the team is pushing to increase this to 210 additional per week with our assisting counties. This will expedite the working of the backlog appointment list to get us to current appointment offerings. We ask that our partners and community are patient with us as we work diligently to get this new process up and running efficiently.

If you have any questions, please email us.

The declaration was originally issued on August 1, 2019 and was renewed on September 30, 2019 and November 27, 2019.

As of January 22, 2020, there had been 3,498 reported cases of Hepatitis A in the State of Florida since January 2019, resulting in 2,717 hospitalizations and 55 deaths.

Rivkees renewed the declaration on January 24, 2020.

Click here to see the renewal of declaration.

Click here to see the original declaration.

Update and Interim Guidance on Outbreak of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in Wuhan, China

Summary

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to closely monitor an outbreak of a 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China that began in December 2019. CDC has established an Incident Management System to coordinate a domestic and international public health response.

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. Some cause illness in people; numerous other coronaviruses circulate among animals, including camels, cats, and bats. Rarely, animal coronaviruses can evolve and infect people and then spread between people such as has been seen with Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/mers/index.html) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV) (https://www.cdc.gov/sars/index.html).

Chinese authorities report most patients in the Wuhan City outbreak have been epidemiologically linked to a large seafood and animal market, suggesting a possible zoonotic origin to the outbreak. Chinese authorities additionally report that they are monitoring several hundred healthcare workers who are caring for outbreak patients; no spread of this virus from patients to healthcare personnel has been reported to date. Chinese authorities are reporting no ongoing spread of this virus in the community, but they cannot rule out that some limited person-to-person spread may be occurring. China has reported that two of the patients have died, including one with pre-existing medical conditions. Chinese health officials publicly posted the genetic sequence of the 2019-nCoV on January 12, 2020. This will facilitate identification of infections with this virus and development of specific diagnostic tests. 

Thailand and Japan have confirmed additional cases of 2019-nCoV in travelers from Wuhan, China. It is possible that more cases will be identified in the coming days. This is an ongoing investigation and given previous experience with MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV, it is possible that person-person spread may occur. There is much more to learn about the transmissibility, severity, and other features associated with 2019-nCoV as the investigations in China, Thailand, and Japan continue. Additional information about this novel virus is needed to better inform population risk.

This HAN Update provides a situational update and guidance to state and local health departments and healthcare providers that supersedes guidance in CDC’s HAN Advisory 424 distributed on January 8, 2020. This HAN Update adds guidance for evaluation of patients under investigation (PUI) for 2019-nCoV, prevention and infection control guidance, including the addition of an eye protection recommendation, and additional information on specimen collection.

Background

An outbreak of pneumonia of unknown etiology in Wuhan City was initially reported to WHO on December 31, 2019. Chinese health authorities have confirmed more than 40 infections with a novel coronavirus as the cause of the outbreak. Reportedly, most patients had epidemiological links to a large seafood and animal market. The market was closed on January 1, 2020. Currently, Chinese health authorities report no community spread of this virus, and no transmission among healthcare personnel caring for outbreak patients. No additional cases of infection with 2019-nCoV have been identified in China since January 3, 2020.

On January 13, 2020 public health officials in Thailand confirmed detection of a human infection with 2019-nCoV in a traveler from Wuhan, China. This was the first confirmed case of 2019-nCoV documented outside China. On January 17, 2020 a second case was confirmed in Thailand, also in a returned traveler from Wuhan City. On January 15, 2020 health officials in Japan confirmed 2019-nCoV infection in a returned traveler from Wuhan City. These persons had onset dates after January 3, 2020. These cases did not report visiting the large seafood and animal market to which many cases in China have been linked.

On January 11, 2020, CDC updated the level 1 travel health notice (“practice usual precautions”) for Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China with additional information (originally issued on January 6, 2020): https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/watch/novel-coronavirus-china.

Recommendations for Healthcare Providers

Limited information is available to characterize the spectrum of clinical illness associated with 2019-nCoV. No vaccine or specific treatment for 2019-nCoV infection is available; care is supportive.

The CDC clinical criteria for a 2019-nCoV patient under investigation (PUI) have been developed based on what is known about MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV and are subject to change as additional information becomes available.

Healthcare providers should obtain a detailed travel history for patients being evaluated with fever and acute respiratory illness. CDC guidance for evaluating and reporting a PUI for MERS-CoV remains unchanged.

Criteria to Guide Evaluation of Patients Under Investigation (PUI) for 2019-nCoV

Patients in the United States who meet the following criteria should be evaluated as a PUI in association with the outbreak of 2019-nCoV in Wuhan City, China.

1) Fever¹ AND symptoms of lower respiratory illness (e.g., cough, shortness of breath)

–and in the last 14 days before symptom onset,

·         History of travel from Wuhan City, China

-or-

·         Close contact² with a person who is under investigation for 2019-nCOV while that person was ill.

1. Fever¹ OR symptoms of lower respiratory illness (e.g., cough, shortness of breath)

–and in the last 14 days before symptom onset,

·         Close contact² with an ill laboratory-confirmed 2019-nCoV patient.

The above criteria are also available at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/novel-coronavirus-2019/clinical-criteria.html. The criteria are intended to serve as guidance for evaluation. Patients should be evaluated and discussed with public health departments on a case-by-case basis if their clinical presentation or exposure history is equivocal (e.g., uncertain travel or exposure).

Recommendations for Reporting, Testing, and Specimen Collection

Healthcare providers should immediately notify both infection control personnel at their healthcare facility and their local or state health department in the event of a PUI for 2019-nCoV. State health departments that have identified a PUI should immediately contact CDC’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at 770-488-7100 and complete a 2019-nCoV PUI case investigation form available at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/novel-coronavirus-2019/downloads/pui-form.pdf. CDC’s EOC will assist local/state health departments to collect, store, and ship specimens appropriately to CDC, including during afterhours or on weekends/holidays. At this time, diagnostic testing for 2019-nCoV can be conducted only at CDC. Testing for other respiratory pathogens should not delay specimen shipping to CDC. If a PUI tests positive for another respiratory pathogen, after clinical evaluation and consultation with public health authorities, they may no longer be considered a PUI. This may evolve as more information becomes available on possible 2019 nCoV co-infections.

For biosafety reasons, it is not recommended to perform virus isolation in cell culture or initial characterization of viral agents recovered in cultures of specimens from a PUI for 2019-nCoV. To increase the likelihood of detecting 2019-nCoV infection, CDC recommends collecting and testing multiple clinical specimens from different sites, including all three specimen types—lower respiratory, upper respiratory, and serum specimens. Additional specimen types (e.g., stool, urine) may be collected and stored. Specimens should be collected as soon as possible once a PUI is identified regardless of time of symptom onset. Additional guidance for collection, handling, and testing of clinical specimens is available at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/.

Interim Healthcare Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Patients Under Investigation for 2019-nCoV

Although the transmission dynamics have yet to be determined, CDC currently recommends a cautious approach to patients under investigation for 2019-nCoV (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/clinical-criteria.html). Such patients should be asked to wear a surgical mask as soon as they are identified and be evaluated in a private room with the door closed, ideally an airborne infection isolation room if available. Healthcare personnel entering the room should use standard precautions, contact precautions, airborne precautions, and use eye protection (e.g., goggles or a face shield). Immediately notify your healthcare facility’s infection control personnel and local health department.

Additional Infection Control Practices Resources

• Guideline for Isolation Precautions: Preventing Transmission of Infectious Agents in Healthcare Settings (https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/isolation/index.html)

Notes

¹Fever may not be present in some patients, such as those who are very young, elderly, immunosuppressed, or taking certain fever-lowering medications. Clinical judgment should be used to guide testing of patients in such situations.

²Close contact with a person who is under investigation for 2019-nCOV.

Close contact is defined as—

a) being within approximately 6 feet (2 meters), or within the room or care area, of a novel coronavirus case for a prolonged period of time while not wearing recommended personal protective equipment or PPE (e.g., gowns, gloves, NIOSH-certified disposable N95 respirator, eye protection); close contact can include caring for, living with, visiting, or sharing a healthcare waiting area or room with a novel coronavirus case.

– or –

b) having direct contact with infectious secretions of a novel coronavirus case (e.g., being coughed on) while not wearing recommended personal protective equipment.

See CDC’s Interim Healthcare Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Patients Under Investigation for 2019 Novel Coronavirus (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/infection-control.html).

Data to inform the definition of close contact are limited. Considerations when assessing close contact include the duration of exposure (e.g., longer exposure time likely increases exposure risk) and the clinical symptoms of the person with novel coronavirus (e.g., coughing likely increases exposure risk as does exposure to a severely ill patient). Special consideration should be given to those exposed in healthcare settings.

For More Information

More information is available at https://.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html or by calling 800-CDC-INFO | (800-232-4636) | TTY: (888) 232-6348

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) protects people's health and safety by preventing and controlling diseases and injuries; enhances health decisions by providing credible information on critical health issues; and promotes healthy living through strong partnerships with local, national, and international organizations.

_________________________________________________________________________

Categories of Health Alert Network messages:

Health Alert          Requires immediate action or attention; highest level of importance

Health Advisory   May not require immediate action; provides important information for a specific incident or situation

Health Update      Unlikely to require immediate action; provides updated information regarding an incident or situation

HAN Info Service Does not require immediate action; provides general public health information

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)  estimates that, nationwide, for the 2019-2020 season so far, there have been at least 6.4 million cases of influenza, more than 55,000 associated hospitalizations and approximately 2,900 related deaths. For Florida flu statistics, please visit the Department’s Florida Flu Review website.  

“With this year’s flu season in full swing, it is critical that adults and children get the flu vaccine to protect against infection and help prevent the spread of seasonal flu to others”, said Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez. “By getting a flu shot now, you will protect yourself, as well as your family and friends.” 

“Influenza is a contagious virus that can spread rapidly in our communities and cause severe illness resulting in hospitalization or death”, said Florida Surgeon General Dr. Scott Rivkees. “Getting vaccinated is the best way to avoid the flu; it reduces the spread of the virus and can also help make illnesses less severe for those who do still get sick.” 



Get the Flu Shot  

The vaccine is recommended for everyone six months and older, including pregnant women. Individuals that are at most risk for getting severely ill from the flu are young children, pregnant women, people with certain chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease or lung disease, and people aged 65 years and older. 

It takes approximately two weeks after vaccination for your body to develop protection against the flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend getting a flu vaccine every year because flu viruses evolve quickly, and last year’s vaccine may not protect against the current year’s strain. Even if the vaccine does not fully protect against the flu, it may reduce the severity of symptoms and the risk of complications.  


Where to Get the Flu Shot  

Flu vaccines are offered at health care providers’ offices, clinics, county health departments, pharmacies, schools, college health centers and from many employers.

Find flu vaccine in your area: VaccineFinder.org.

Learn more: FluFreeFlorida.com. 



Healthy Habits to Help Prevent Flu 
Good health habits like washing your hands can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.  

Covering the mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing may prevent those around you from getting sick. Make it a habit to clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces in your home, school or office.  

Flu vaccines and good hand hygiene are still the go-to recommendations for prevention; however, public health officials say it's just as important to contain the virus, and that means staying home when you're sick — even if it means missing holiday festivities. 

About the Florida Department of Health 
The Department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts. 

 
 

CHD16MediaRequests@flhealth.gov 
904-252-5217

Jacksonville, FL – The Florida Department of Health in Duval County (DOH-Duval) has confirmed one (1) human cases of West Nile Virus infection. This cases brings the total number of cases in Duval County to eleven (11). 

City of Jacksonville Mosquito Control and DOH-Duval continue surveillance and prevention efforts. Health officials caution not to focus on the specific location of cases as the mosquitos that can spread West Nile Virus can travel five or more miles and birds infected with West Nile can go even farther.  DOH-Duval urges Duval County residents to remain diligent in their personal mosquito protection efforts by remembering to “Drain and Cover.”

DRAIN standing water to stop mosquitoes from multiplying.

•      Drain water from garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flower pots or any other containers where sprinkler or rain water has collected.

•      Discard old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that aren't being used.

•      Empty and clean birdbaths and pet's water bowls at least once or twice a week

•      Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don’t accumulate water.

•      Maintain swimming pools in good condition and appropriately chlorinated. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.

COVER skin with clothing or repellent.

•      Clothing - Wear shoes, socks, and long pants and long-sleeves. This type of protection may be necessary for people who must work in areas where mosquitoes are present.

•      Repellent - Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing.

•      Always use repellents according to the label. Repellents with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, and IR3535 are effective.

•      Use mosquito netting to protect children younger than 2 months old.

Tips on Repellent Use

•      Always read label directions carefully for the approved usage before you apply a repellent. Some repellents are not suitable for children.

•      Products with concentrations of up to 30 percent DEET (N, N-diethyl-mtoluamide) are generally recommended. Other U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-approved repellents contain picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, paramenthane-diol, or IR3535. These products are generally available at local pharmacies. Look for active ingredients to be listed on the product label.

•      Apply insect repellent to exposed skin, or onto clothing, but not under clothing.

•      In protecting children, read label instructions to be sure the repellent is age appropriate. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mosquito repellents containing oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under the age of three years. DEET is not recommended on children younger than two months old.

•      Avoid applying repellents to the hands of children. Adults should apply repellent first to their own hands and then transfer it to the child’s skin and clothing.

•      If additional protection is necessary, apply a permethrin repellent directly to your clothing. Again, always follow the manufacturer’s directions.

COVER doors and windows with screens to keep mosquitoes out of your house.

•      Repair broken screening on windows, doors, porches, and patios.

For more information on what repellent is right for you, consider using the Environmental Protection Agency’s search tool to help you choose skin-applied repellent products: http://cfpub.epa.gov/oppref/insect/#searchform. 

The Department continues to conduct statewide surveillance for mosquito-borne illnesses, including West Nile virus infections, Eastern equine encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, malaria, chikungunya, and dengue. Residents of Florida are encouraged to report dead birds via the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s site - http://legacy.myfwc.com/bird/default.asp. For more information, visit DOH’s website at http://www.floridahealth.gov/diseases-and-conditions/mosquito-borne-diseases/index.html or call your local county health department.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts. Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

904-252-5217

Jacksonville, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Duval County (DOH-Duval) unites with people and communities worldwide as we observe World AIDS Day by showing support for people living with HIV and honoring those who have died from an AIDS-related illness. World AIDS Day is December 1^st, but Duval County has dedicated the entire week to activities to increase awareness.

“It is a very important time for our community to adopt new strategies in HIV prevention, strengthen existing partnerships and create new ones as we continue to work to end this global epidemic.”, said Erin Hess, Interim Administrator for the Florida Department of Health in Duval County.“

Over 1.1 million people in the US are living with HIV, and 1 in 7 of them don’t know it. The department remains fully committed to fighting the spread of HIV in Florida and helping connect individuals who are positive with lifesaving treatment and services.

Florida is a national leader in HIV testing. DOH and our partners throughout Florida have made great strides in prevention, identifying infections early and getting people into treatment, however there is still much work to be done. The department is focusing on four key strategies to make an even greater impact on reducing HIV rates in Florida and getting to zero, including:

·         Routine screening for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and implementation of CDC testing guidelines;

·         Increased testing among high-risk populations and providing immediate access to treatment as well as re-engaging HIV positive persons into the care system, with the ultimate goal of getting HIV positive persons to an undetectable viral load;

·         The use of PrEP and nPEP as prevention strategies to reduce the risk of contracting HIV; and

·         Increased community outreach and awareness about HIV, high-risk behaviors, the importance of knowing one’s status and if positive, quickly accessing and staying in treatment.

With early diagnosis, individuals can begin appropriate treatment and care resulting in better health outcomes. Studies have shown that providing antiretroviral therapy as early as possible after diagnosis improves a patient’s health, reduces transmission and can eventually lead to undetectable viral loads of HIV. This model has been successfully implemented in Florida and there are currently 35 Test and Treat sites operating statewide.

As part of our strategic efforts to eliminate HIV in Florida, the Department of Health is currently working to make Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) medication available at no cost at all of the 67 county health departments within the next year. PrEP is a once-daily pill that can reduce the risk of acquiring HIV in HIV-negative individuals. PrEP should be used in conjunction with other prevention methods like condoms to reduce the risk of infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), taking PrEP daily reduces the risk of getting HIV by more than 90 percent.

DOH-Duval offers PrEP at our Comprehensive Care Center on 515 West 6^th Street in Jacksonville, Florida 32206. PrEP will be made available through the DOH-Duval STD and Family Planning Clinics and patients can be provided with up to a 90-day supply of medications. Some CHDs may offer PrEP through specialty clinics. Visit floridahealth.gov to locate the CHD in your county.

Every CHD also offers high-quality HIV testing services. Testing can be completed at your local county health department or you can locate HIV counseling, testing and referral sites by visiting www.KnowYourHIVStatus.com or texting your zip code to 477493.

Events scheduled in Duval County in observance of World AIDS Day are as follows:

Monday, November 26

Event Name: AIDS Memorial Quilt Ceremony

Location: Jacksonville City Hall, 117 W. Duval St.

Time: 12 noon

Contact: Justin Bell, (904) 556-2312

Additional Info. - The Quilt will be on display from Nov. 19th thru December 3rd.

Tuesday, November 27

Event Name: Condom Blitz

Location: Various

Time: 10:00am-2:00pm

Contact: Angel Kalafatis-Russell, (904) 386-8779

Wednesday, November 28

Event Name: World AIDS Day College Outreach

Location: UNF and FSCJ (multiple campuses)

Time: 10:00am-2:00pm

Contact: Angel Kalafatis-Russell, (904) 386-8779

Thursday, November 29

Event Name: World AIDS Day College Outreach

Location: Jacksonville University

Time: 10:00am-2:00pm

Contact: Angel Kalafatis-Russell, (904) 386-8779

Event Name: Poetry Slam/Spoken Word

Location: Mary’s Pub House

901 King St. Jacksonville, FL 32204

Time: 6:30pm-9:00pm

Contact: Angel Kalafatis-Russell, (904) 386-8779

Friday, November 30

Event Name: Awards Luncheon

Location: Omni Hotel

Time: 11:30am

Contact: Sherda Pierre, (904) 356-1612 Ext. 120

Additional Info: Cost $45 per ticket if purchased before November 9, 2017 and $50 per ticket if purchased after November 9, 2017.

Event Name: Ultimate Runway Fashion Show

Location: 700 E. Union Street

Time: 7:00pm

Tickets: tinyurl.com/ultimaterunwayfashionshow

Contact: Yolanda Kellam-Carter

Saturday, December 1

Memorial Walk @ 5:30pm

Event Name: Memorial Service

Location: West Union Missionary Baptist Church

Time: 6:00pm

Contact: Justin Bell, (904) 556-2312

Additional Info: A Service of Remembrance & Hope

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @HealthyFla. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

On Wednesday, November 14, 2018, you may have incorrectly received an email from the Florida Department of Health Division of Medical Quality Assurance stating that you have yet to complete a continuing education course on Controlled Substance Prescribing.

However, YOU HAVE COMPLIED! The Department of Health has record that you have taken the required continuing education course.

We apologize for any inconvenience. If you have any questions, please email Takecontrol@flhealth.gov

In an effort to keep you informed and prepared to facilitate care during Hurricane Michael, please see Governor Rick Scott’s Executive Order declaring a state of emergency covering 35 counties in the Florida Panhandle and Big Bend.

As State Surgeon General, I have also issued an emergency order. This emergency order allows health care professionals holding a valid, unrestricted and unencumbered license in any state, territory, and/or district to assist our state with response and recovery efforts and also provides a reporting extension to the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) for counties included in the Governor’s Executive Order.

I would also like to note that per statute, if the PDMP is nonoperational or cannot be accessed by the prescriber or dispenser because of temporary technical or electrical failure, there is no duty to consult prior to dispensing.

“Vaccinations have substantially reduced or eliminated many infectious diseases, and we proudly recognize the ongoing efforts of public health professionals to protect people from disease,” said Erin Hess, Interim Administrator for the Florida Department of Health in Duval County. “However, immunization is a shared responsibility. NIIW provides us with an opportunity to promote the importance of infant immunization and encourage parents and caregivers to protect their children against vaccine-preventable diseases.”

NIIW is a call to action for parents, caregivers and health care providers to ensure that all children are protected from birth against 14 serious childhood illnesses. It is important that parents and health care providers work together to follow the recommended Advisory Committee on Immunizations (ACIP) schedule. Age appropriate and timely vaccination is essential for protecting infants and children because it provides immunity early in life, before they encounter potentially life threatening diseases.

The department is committed to increasing the rate of immunization among Florida’s children under two years of age. Recently, the department worked with a diverse group of public and private partners to update the State Health Improvement Plan (SHIP). Over the next five years, the department and partners will work to increase access to vaccines for our entire community, with an emphasis on vaccinating infants, teens and pregnant women.

To learn more about the department’s immunization-related goals, visit the SHIP page. For Duval County immunization information, visit the 2017-2019 Duval County Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) page.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @HealthyFla. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

904-253-2276

Jacksonville, Florida — The Florida Department of Health in Duval County (DOH-Duval) in conjunction with our community partners are hosting activities citywide to observe National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on February 7. DOH-Duval is using this opportunity to increase HIV education, testing and treatment in black communities.

“African Americans account for a higher proportion of those living with HIV compared to other races in the United States,” said Dr. Kelli Wells, Deputy Secretary for Health and Director of Florida Department of Health in Duval County. “Education and awareness campaigns are critical to preventing the spread of HIV and AIDS, particularly in communities where HIV is heavily concentrated.”

In 2016 one in 171 adults living in Duval, Baker, Clay, St. Johns, and Nassau Counties was known to be living with HIV. One in 401 was White, one in 315 was Hispanic, and one in 56 was Black.

Florida is a national leader in HIV testing. DOH and its partners throughout Florida have made great strides in prevention, identifying infections early and getting people into treatment, however there is still much work to be done. The department is focusing on four key strategies to make an even greater impact on reducing HIV rates in Florida and getting to zero, including:

·         Routine screening for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and implementation of CDC testing guidelines;

·         Increased testing among high-risk populations and providing immediate access to treatment as well as re-engaging HIV positive persons into the care system, with the ultimate goal of getting HIV positive persons to an undetectable viral load;

·         The use of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Nonoccupational Post-exposure Prophylaxis (nPEP) as prevention strategies to reduce the risk of contracting HIV; and

·         Increased community outreach and awareness about HIV, high-risk behaviors, the importance of knowing one’s status and if positive, quickly accessing and staying in treatment.

With early diagnosis, individuals can begin appropriate treatment and care resulting in better health outcomes. Studies have shown that providing antiretroviral therapy as early as possible after diagnosis improves a patient’s health, reduces transmission and can eventually lead to undetectable viral loads of HIV. This model has been successfully implemented in Florida and there are currently 35 Test and Treat sites operating statewide.

As part of our strategic efforts to eliminate HIV in Florida, the Department of Health is working to make Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) medication available, regardless of a client’s ability to pay, at all of the 67 county health departments within the next year. PrEP is a once-daily pill that can reduce the risk of acquiring HIV in HIV-negative individuals. PrEP should be used in conjunction with other prevention methods like condoms to reduce the risk of infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), taking PrEP daily along with consistent condom use reduces the risk of getting HIV by more than 90 percent.

DOH-Duval offers PrEP at our Comprehensive Care Center on 515 West 6^th Street in Jacksonville, Florida 32206. Some CHDs may offer PrEP through specialty clinics. Visit floridahealth.gov to locate the CHD in your county.

Every CHD also offers high-quality HIV testing services. Testing can be completed at your local county health department or you can locate HIV counseling, testing and referral sites by visiting www.KnowYourHIVStatus.com or texting your zip code to 477493

Here are the events scheduled in Duval County in observance of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day:

Free HIV Testing, Giveaways & Refreshments on February 7, 2018:

9:00am-12:00pm

Clara White Mission

613 West Ashley Street

Jacksonville, FL 32202

2:00pm-7:00pm

Edward Waters College Student Union Building

1658 Kings Road

Jacksonville, FL 32209

About the Florida Department of Health

The department works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @HealthyFla. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov

904-253-1010

Jacksonville, Florida — As the new school year begins, the Florida Department of Health in Duval encourages parents to have their children immunized. Local county health departments statewide are providing free immunization services for eligible children who are entering school for the first time and those who are returning to class. Parents of kindergartners and 7th graders are encouraged to review their child’s immunization record to be certain they are ready for school. New college students are also encouraged to ensure their immunizations are up to date.

“Vaccines are safe, effective and necessary to prevent harmful illnesses”: said Dr. Kelli Wells, Deputy Secretary for the Florida Department of Health and Director of the Department of Health in Duval County.

Vaccines help develop immunity to many serious infectious diseases by enabling the body to fight vaccine-preventable diseases. The following vaccines are required for children entering preschool and grades K-12: diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), measles, mumps, rubella, polio, varicella (chickenpox) and hepatitis B. Students entering college should check with health services at their college regarding immunization requirements.  Children may be excluded from school if they are not up to date on their vaccinations.

The Florida Department of Health in Duval wants to ensure that our children are protected from diseases which can cause long term health effects and missed days from school.  We want every child to have an opportunity to start school on day 1 and finish the school year without interference from a vaccine-preventable disease. 

Florida SHOTS is a free, statewide, centralized online immunization registry that helps health care providers, parents, and schools keep track of immunization records to ensure that patients of all ages receive the vaccinations needed to protect them from dangerous vaccine-preventable diseases. Florida SHOTS makes it easier to keep up with your child’s immunization history—even when moving or switching doctors within the state of Florida. The registry is endorsed by the Florida Academy of Family Physicians, Florida Association of Health Plans, Inc., Florida Medical Association, Florida Osteopathic Medical Association, and the Florida Chapter of American Academy of Pediatrics.

If your child is due for a vaccine, please visit your family health care provider or one of our health department clinics. Visit ImmunizeFlorida.org to learn more about immunizations your child may need or call your local county health department at, 904.253.1420, to find out locations and times for immunization services available near you.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @HealthyFla. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

The Florida Department of Health Office of Medical Marijuana Use has a variety of resources available for physicians and patients. The below information comes from the Florida Department of Health Website at floridahealth.gov.

 In order to qualify to order medical marijuana for patients, a physician must have an active, unrestricted license as a physician under Chapter 458, F.S., or osteopathic physician under Chapter 459, F.S. Additionally, a physician employed as a medical director by a dispensing organization may not order medical marijuana for patients.

Physician Resources: 

• Physicians must complete the required course and examination
  
• Click here for requirements of qualified patients and ordering physicians
• Click here for a list of physicians who have completed the required training

Patient Resources:

Qualifying conditions include:

• Cancer
• Epilepsy
• Glaucoma
• HIV
• AIDS
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
• Crohn’s disease
• Parkinson’s disease
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)
• Medical conditions of the same kind or class as or comparable to those above
• A terminal condition diagnosed by a physician other than the qualified physician issuing the physician certification
• Chronic nonmalignant pain caused by a qualifying medical condition or that originates from a qualifying medical condition and persists beyond the usual course of that qualifying medical condition

Licensed Dispensing Organizations (as of 7/10/17):

Dispensing Facilities (as of 7/10/17):

Alison Hewitt

CHD16MediaRequests@flhealth.gov

904-253-2276

Jacksonville, FL—The Florida Department of Health in Duval County (DOH-Duval) is participating in “Wear BLUE Day” on Friday, June 16, 2017.  Each year, “Wear BLUE Day” is held during Men’s Health Month and the Friday before Father’s Day to show concern for the health and wellbeing of boys and men.

In Duval County,

•  Men have higher rates of obesity than women (68.8% to 63.7%; 
•  Adult men have higher Diabetes than women (Males 16.0% and Females 8.4%)
•  Death rate teen suicide: Males 9.2 per 100,000 and Females 1.7 per 100,000 (5.4 times more likely in males than females)

“Men live sicker and die younger and recognizing Men’s Health Month raises the awareness of the importance of Men’s Health,” said Kelli Wells, MD, Director of DOH-Duval. “DOH-Duval participates in wear BLUE Day to raise awareness in our community regarding making healthy lifestyle choices, making regular annual visits to the doctor, getting educated on heart disease or diabetes, starting general health conversations with men in your life and much more.”

Please join the DOH-Duval team and wear BLUE on Friday, June 16th and as you are celebrating Father’s Day on Sunday, remind the males in your life to get regular check-ups, know their numbers (blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, PSA (prostate specific antigen).  Also, have open conversations about engaging in responsible sexual behavior and pay attention to their emotional health.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

JACKSONVILLE - Florida Department of Health in Duval County (DOH-Duval) has issued a rabies alert for the Jacksonville Beach area of Duval County. The alert is in effect through August 11, 2017.

The rabies alert area is bordered on the south by Osceola Avenue at Blue Heron Lane, on the north by Seagate Avenue at Penman Road, on the west by the Intracoastal Waterway at Beach Boulevard, and east by Atlantic Ocean at Beach Boulevard.

The alert follows discovery of a rabid cat in the Jacksonville Beach area of Duval County. As a precaution, pet owners should maintain control of their pets at all times, and be certain that each has received current rabies immunization shots from a licensed veterinarian.

An animal with rabies could infect other wild animals or domestic animals that have not been vaccinated against rabies. All domestic animals should be vaccinated against rabies and all wildlife contact should be avoided, particularly raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats and coyotes. Rabies is a disease of the nervous system and is fatal to warm blooded animals and humans. The only treatment for human exposure to rabies is rabies specific immune globulin and rabies immunization. Appropriate treatment started soon after the exposure will protect an exposed person from the disease.

The following advice is issued:

• Keep rabies vaccinations up to date for all pets.
• If your pet is bitten by a wild animal, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately and contact the Florida Department of Health in Duval County at (904) 253-1280.
• Call your local animal control agency to remove any stray animals from your neighborhood.
• Do not handle, feed, or unintentionally attract wild animals by leaving pet food outside, or garbage cans open.
• Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home.
• Teach children never to handle unfamiliar animals, wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly.
• Prevent bats from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, churches, schools, and other similar areas, where they might come in contact with people and pets.
• Persons who have been bitten or scratched by wild or domestic animals should seek medical attention and report the injury to the Florida Department of Health in Duval County at (904) 253-1280.

 For further information on rabies, go to the Florida Department of Health website: http://www.floridahealth.gov/diseases-and-conditions/rabies/index.html, contact Florida Department of Health in Duval County, (904) 253-1280, or contact Animal Care and Protective Services (904) 630-CITY (2489).

Rabies Alert Boundaries

• North –Seagate Avenue @ Penman Road
• South – Osceola Avenue @ Blue Heron Lane North
• East – Atlantic Ocean @ Beach Boulevard
• West – Intercoastal Waterway @ Beach Boulevard

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

Jacksonville, Fla. – Due to the West Mims Forest Fire and weather forecasts, the Florida Department of Health in Duval County (DOH-Duval) wants residents and visitors to take precaution when being in areas affected heavily by smoke. Smoke can cause individuals to experience scratchy throats or irritated eyes and noses. Smoke can also worsen asthma and other chronic lung or heart conditions.

How to protect your family from smoke:

• Avoid prolonged outdoor activities in areas heavily affected by smoke. This is especially important for children and persons with pre-existing medical conditions.
• Stay indoors and run your air conditioner. Keep the fresh air intake closed and the filter clean to prevent bringing additional smoke inside. For best results, run the air conditioning with recirculated air.
• Help keep particle levels lower inside. When smoke levels are high, try to avoid using anything that burns, such as wood fireplaces, gas logs, gas stoves and candles. Do not vacuum, which stirs up particles already inside your home. Do not smoke.
• Follow your doctor’s advice about taking medicines and following your asthma management plan if you have asthma or other lung disease. Call your doctor if your symptoms worsen. Pay attention to local air quality reports (www.airnow.gov), news coverage or health warnings related to smoke.

The department works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health, please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

904-253-1010

Jacksonville, Fla. –The Florida Department of Health in Duval joins the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in recognizing April as STD Awareness Month. Throughout the month, DOH-Duval will be hosting and participating in screening and education events to raise STD awareness. STD Awareness Month is especially important this year as syphilis, which was at one point nearly eliminated, has made a resurgence. The current number and rate of syphilis cases is higher than it has been in more than 20 years in the United States.

“Unfortunately, syphilis is on the rise in Duval County also,” said Dr. Kelli Wells, Director of DOH-Duval. “In an effort to address this problem, DOH-Duval has created aSyphilis Elimination Work Group with the goal of reducing the incidence and transmission of infectious syphilis in Duval County.  The public benefits of this effort are significant: improved infant health; reduced health disparities, and improved collaborative public health infrastructure.”

With the recent rise in syphilis infections, it is a renewed health threat for anyone who is sexually active. To prevent the spread of all STDs, including syphilis, DOH-Duvalprovides screening, counseling, treatment and partner notification services to persons infected with or suspected of being infected with STDs.

Syphilis infection rates have spiked in all regions of the country and across almost every ethnicity and age group. Some populations, such as gay, bisexual, other men who have sex with men, and women are seeing higher increases than other groups. Cases of congenital syphilis (babies born with syphilis) are also increasing at an alarming rate. Having syphilis also makes it easier to get HIV and Hepatitis C.

The only way to avoid syphilis and other STDs is to not have sex. However, if you are sexually active, you can do the following things to lower your chances of infection:

·        Be in a long-term, monogamous relationship with a partner who has tested negative for syphilis and other STDs;

·        Use condoms the right way every time you have sex;

·        Talk to your health care provider about getting tested for syphilis and other STDs or locate a clinic near you for free, fast and confidential testing;

·        If you test positive for syphilis or other STDs, get treated right away and be sure your sexual partner is treated as well to reduce the risk of re-infection.

Please join DOH-Duval at a STD Awareness Month event:

Friday April 14^th from 4:00pm – 8:00pm: National Youth HIV Testing Awareness Day "Backyard Block Party" (Food Truck Rally).  In partnership with JASMYN, DOH-Duval and community organizations will provide fun activities, information about services, and an assortment of vendors.  923 Peninsular Place, Jacksonville, FL 32204.

For more information on STD Awareness Month, visit the CDC’s webpage. To learn more about the department’s STD program and services, click here. 

904-253-1010

Jacksonville, Fla. –The Florida Department of Health in Duval (DOH-Duval) joins partners across the state and the nation to celebrate National Minority Health Month in April. This year’s theme is Bridging Health Equity Across Communities and it reflects the department’s commitment to ensuring Floridians in all communities have opportunities to achieve healthier outcomes.

“An individual’s race/ethnicity, family income, place of residence, and education often leads to decreased access to care, reduced lifespan, and a reduced quality of life,” said Dr. Kelli Wells, Director of DOH-Duval. “National Minority Health Month provides an opportunity for residents, communities, leaders, and healthcare providers to discuss and create solutions to health inequities that often begin before birth.”

Florida has achieved lower morbidity and mortality rates across several different diseases, however, gaps continue to exist. All Floridians regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, geographic location and physical and developmental differences should be able to attain the highest level of health. Eliminating gaps between different communities and across all groups in Florida is a priority for the department.

The department’s Office of Minority Health and Health Equity (OMHHE) works year round to promote several initiatives that support health equity in Florida including the Closing the Gap grant, Florida’s Healthy Babies initiative and HIV/AIDS outreach and prevention. OMHHE will continue to bridge efforts across Florida to help decrease and eliminate health disparities, accelerate health equity and to build stronger, healthier communities.

DOH-Duval has incorporated Health Equity Training into all of its programs in an effort to increase the impact of the services it provides for the residents of Duval County.  Recently, Health Equity Training was conducted for all staff at the agency’s All Staff meeting.

DOH-Duval also recently held its first annual “Creating a Healthier Jacksonville” Public Health Conference on April 6, 2017. Health equity was addressed in each general session and more than 150 professionals and community members were in attendance.

To learn more about projects and resources related to Minority Health Month, click here.

904-253-1010

Jacksonville, Fla. – This week is National Public Health Week and the Florida Department of Health in Duval  (DOH-Duval) is giving Floridians an inside look at some of the careers behind public health and the dedicated professionals who do them. Each day, the department will highlight a different area of public health including epidemiology, emergency preparedness and response, environmental health and public health nursing. These fields and many more help the department carry out our mission to promote, protect and improve the health of Florida residents and visitors.

“I am very proud of the diverse, talented team of professionals here at DOH-Duval that work in the priority areas in Duval County such as Healthy Families and Healthy Babies, Healthiest Weight, Behavioral Health, Access to Care, and Health Equity”, said Kelli Wells, MD, Director of DOH-Duval.   “Public Health Week is an opportunity for professionals and organizations throughout Duval County to have a focused discussion about issues in these areas and develop solutions that empower community members to enjoy improved health outcomes”.

In keeping with the National Public Health Week’s mission of promoting healthier living and achieving the goal of “healthiest nation by 2030”, DOH-Duval will host the first annual “Creating a Healthier Jacksonville” Public Health Conference on April 6, 2017. The conference will feature local and national best practices on a variety of issues impacting our community: mental health, violence, sexual health, partnerships, and getting to results. 

Last year, the department was the first state in the nation to receive national accreditation as an integrated department of health through the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB). Accreditation by PHAB signifies that the department, including the state health office and all 67 county health departments, is meeting national standards for ensuring essential public health services are provided in the community.

For the next two years, the department will focus on several key areas to improve health in our state including increasing childhood vaccination rates, achieving health equity in all communities, developing a high quality trauma service, reducing HIV infection rates, reducing infant mortality rates, decreasing inhaled nicotine use and decreasing licensure processing time for health care professionals.

The many public health employees at DOH-Duval work diligently to provide excellent care in the areas of chronic disease prevention and community health promotion. The DOH-Duval programs cover the areas of women’s’ health, pediatric health, behavioral health, vaccinations, disease control and surveillance and HIV/STD prevention.

Use #ThankAPublicHealthPro on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to recognize a public health professional in your area during National Public Health Week.

For more information about National Public Health Week, please visit www.nphw.org. For more information about the different programs and services offered at DOH-Duval please visit DUVAL.FLORIDAHEALTH.GOV or call 904.253.1000.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health, please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

904-253-1010

Jacksonville, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Duval County (DOH-Duval) recognizes the value in measuring health outcomes and the 2017 County Health Rankings & Roadmaps tool released by the University of Wisconsin and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. This study highlights the many community factors that influence health and uses established data, much of which is available from the department at www.FLHealthCHARTS.com. These rankings use data related to physical environments, social and economic factors, health behaviors and clinical care.

“The County Health Rankings are a starting point for change, helping communities come together, identify priorities, and create coalitions that will help our diverse community live healthier lives. The County Health Rankings remind us how health is influenced by our surroundings – where we live, work, and play,” said Kelli Wells, MD, Director of DOH-Duval.  “The County Health Ranking is often the spark for policy makers, businesses, community partners, healthcare providers and others to work together to better the health of the community.”

These rankings give a snapshot of the health of counties across the country and they emphasize that health is not a singular effort but a combined work of multiple community partners.

In Duval County, the Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) identifies community specific focus areas for improved health that have been chosen by members of the community. The CHIP also defines how public health system partners will work together to address health priorities. The result is a well-crafted roadmap to improve health outcomes that we will review and revise annually to respond to emerging challenges. The following priority areas in Duval County’s CHIP will impact our health ranking:

·        Healthy Families and Healthy Babies

·        Healthiest Weight

·        Behavioral Health

·        Access to Care

·        Health Equity 

Duval County’s overall ranking for Health Factors increased from 35 to 32. Ranking for health behaviors (38 to 35) and clinical care (11 to 10) also improved.  Working with the Mayor, City Council and our local partners, we will continue to support the implementation of projects and programs in critical areas that will have a positive impact on the overall health of our community.

“This is a timely report that reinforces the work that we at Humana and our community leaders are undertaking with our Bold Goal Initiative, said Tracie Fahy, Humana Regional Medicare President and Bold Goal Co-Chair. This report further validates the reason Humana has chosen Jacksonville as a target with our Bold Goal initiative to improve the health of our community 20% by the year 2020. Through our partnerships with the Health Department, local Health leaders, local government and a host of community organizations we believe we can collectively impact the health of Duval County and turn these numbers in a positive direction.”

Last week the Florida Department of Health celebrated a one year milestone as the first integrated department of health in the nation to achieve national accreditation through the Public Health Accreditation Board. Public health departments play a critical role in protecting and improving the health of people and communities. The seal of accreditation signifies that the Florida Department of Health has been rigorously examined and meets or exceeds national standards that promote continuous quality improvement for public health.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

“World TB Day is designed to build public awareness that there remains a tuberculosis epidemic in much of the world,” said Dr. Kelli Wells, Director of the DOH-Duval.  “Duval County is working with all community partners to move towards the elimination of TB.”

Tuberculosis is one of the world’s deadliest diseases and it is caused by a bacterium called mycobacterium tuberculosis that usually attacks the lungs, but can attack any part of the body, including the kidney, spine and brain. Latent TB can live within the body without making you sick. People with latent TB do not have symptoms, are not infectious and cannot make others sick.

TB is spread through the air and symptoms of the disease include:

·        A bad cough that lasts three weeks or longer;

·        Pain in the chest;

·        Coughing up blood or sputum; and

·        Weakness or fatigue, weight loss, loss of appetite, chills, fever and sweating at night.

Through its statewide TB program and its support of the Florida System of Tuberculosis Care, the Florida Department of Health is making significant strides towards its goal to eliminate TB in the state. Cases of TB in Florida have gone down by 35 percent from 988 cases in 2007 to 639 in 2016.  During the same time period, Duval reported 71 cases in 2007 and 52 in 2016, a decrease of 27%. The department has implemented improved testing and treatment technologies, making it easier for clients to successfully complete therapy.

To prevent the transmission of TB amongst the homeless population in Duval County area shelters, the Florida Department of Health, Division of Disease Control and Health Protection, Bureau of Communicable Diseases, TB Control Section; DOH-Duval, and the Center for Pulmonary Services, Jacksonville, Florida have implemented a Shelter Card program.

The Shelter Card Program is a system of routine testing and assessment of the county's homeless clients seeking admittance to area shelters. The clients must have a current "shelter" card that indicates they have been tested (annually) and assessed by DOH-Duval for symptoms of TB within the last 2 months.

To explore resources relating to TB and learn more, visit the department’s website. For additional information about World TB Day 2017, visit the CDC’s World TB Day page.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

Contact: 
Heidi Moore 
CHD16MediaRequests@flhealth.gov

“Throughout her career, Dr. Wells has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to caring for underserved communities and improving health equity,” said Surgeon General and Secretary Dr. Celeste Philip. “Improving health equity—empowering each individual to achieve ideal health--is a strategic priority for the department and I am confident Kelli’s talent and capabilities will benefit our state. Ms. Dick has had an exceptional career in public health and safety and will be a critical member of our leadership team in this new capacity.er expentisve experience preparing and responding to public health threats  Cindy’s emergency response experience and understanding of systems has equipped her with the skills to help oversee key agency functions.”

Current interim Deputy Secretary for Health Dr. Anna Likos is retiring after an impressive clinical and public health career. Dr. Likos joined the department in 2013 as Disease Control and Health Protection Division Director and State Epidemiologist. Prior to her service in Florida, Dr. Likos held various roles for a decade at the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. She also recently retired her commissions as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air National Guard where she served as a physician ensuring that Air Force personnel were medically fit and ready for immediate deployment if required.

“We are so grateful to Dr. Likos for her expertise and leadership over the last several years,” said Dr. Philip. “Her global perspective has been especially beneficial in our response to limit the spread of the Zika virus and tackling our mission to eliminate HIV/AIDS in Florida. We wish Anna the best in her retirement and future endeavors.” 

Dr. Wells, a family physician, joined the department in June 2009 as the clinical services director for DOH-Escambia and was appointed director of DOH-Duval in 2013. Dr. Wells previously served as Chief Medical Officer at the Agape Community Health Center, Medical Director at the West Jacksonville Family Health Center, and Fast Track Physician at St. Vincent's Hospital emergency room.

Dr. Wells supports the department’s efforts to close disparity gaps as co-chair of the Health Equity Program Council. She serves the community and represents public health as a member of the Duval County Medical Society, the Duval County Medical Society Foundation, the Brooks College of Health Dean’s Council, and an ex-officio member of the Jacksonville City Council’s Public Health and Safety Committee. She is a state representative to the National Association of County & City Health Officials (NACCHO). Dr. Wells graduated from the University of Florida's College of Medicine and received a Bachelor of Science from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU).

Most recently, Ms. Dick oversaw the Bureaus of Preparedness and Response, Emergency Medical Oversight, Radiation Control and Public Health Pharmacy. Cindy served as the Fire Chief for the City of Tallahassee from 2005-2013, a role in which she was responsible for guiding the direction and activities of the Tallahassee Fire Department. In previous positions, Cindy has served as a Fire Battalion Captain, Fire Lieutenant, and Firefighter. She also served as a fire service instructor for seven years at the Lively Area Vo-Tech Institute.

In her 28 years of experience in emergency preparedness and response services, Cindy has been recognized nationally for her work and has held several positions with organizations such as the Florida Fire Chief’s Association, Florida Domestic Security Oversight Council, North Florida Regional Domestic Security Task Force and Florida Domestic Security Resource Committee. Along with a successful career with the City of Tallahassee, Cindy was named the 2012 Florida Fire Chief of the Year by the Florida Fire Chief’s Association. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Florida and a Master of Business Administration from Columbia Southern University.  

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

Contact: 
Communications Office 
NewsMedia@flhealth.gov
850-245-4111

“Unintentional poisoning from a wide variety of substances and environmental hazards happen much too often,” said Dr. Kelli Wells, Director of the DOH-Duval, “This week we encourage parents and caregivers to check their homes for hazards.”

Florida’s Poison Control Centers handled 146,664 incoming calls during 2016. Poisonings can happen quickly and it is important to know how to prevent poisoning and what to do in case you or your children consume a potentially dangerous product. Always keep the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 visibly posted in your home or classroom in case of an emergency.

The Florida Poison Information Center Network recommends the following tips for poison prevention.

• Install safety latches on cabinets and drawers;
• Keep all medicines, cleaning supplies and chemicals out of site and reach of children;
• Try to purchase products with child-proof packaging when available;
• Keep products in their original packaging, do not store them in food containers;
• Always read product labels and follow directions exactly; and
• Do not call medicine “candy” when giving it to children.

In Duval County the incidents of poisoning are:

Ø  136 deaths by unintentional poisoning in 2015

Ø  In 2014, there were 271 cases of Hospital/ER treated non-fatal unintentional poisonings in kids age 1-5

Ø  In 2014, there were 18 hospitalizations for non-fatal unintentional poisonings among kids age 1-5.              

The Poison Help Line is free, confidential and multilingual and automatically directs the caller to the poison control center covering their geographic area.

Download the poison patrol checklist to help identify and safely store household poisons to keep your family safe and healthy.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

Contact:
Heidi Moore
CHD16MediaRequests@flhealth.gov
904-253-1010

celebrates National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS awareness Day

Contact: 
Heidi Moore 
CHD16MediaRequests@flhealth.gov

904-253-1010

Jacksonville, Fla. — In recognition of National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on March 10, 2017, the Department of Health in Duval County (DOH-Duval), encourages women and teenage girls to learn about the risks of HIV/AIDS and take action to protect their health, including getting tested for HIV.

"Raising public awareness of HIV is critical to ensuring that people take action to protect themselves against the disease," Dr. Kelli Wells, Director of DOH-Duval said. "This annual observance is a reminder that women are at risk of contracting HIV and should learn about prevention, testing, and treatment." 

HIV remains a significant health issue for women and adolescent girls, with more than 280,000 women living with HIV in the United States. In 2014, an estimated 8,328 women aged 13 and older were diagnosed with HIV. The majority of these diagnoses can be attributed to heterosexual sex.

Black/African American and Hispanic/Latina women continue to be disproportionately affected by HIV. Among all US women in 2014, Black women accounted for 62% of new HIV diagnoses but only 13% of the female population.  Hispanic/Latina women accounted for 16% of new diagnoses but only 15% of the female population.  Whites accounted for 18% of new diagnoses and 64% of the female population.

In Duval County:

Ø  In 2015, there were 72 AIDS cases in females (all age groups) in Duval County (rate: 15.5 cases per 100,000 population)

Ø  In 2015, there were 74 HIV cases in females (all age groups) in Duval County (rate: 16 cases per 100,000 population)

Ø  In 2015, there were 13 HIV/AIDS deaths among females (all age groups) in Duval County (rate: 2.8 per 100,000 population)

Ø  In 2013, 49% of women (age 18+) in Duval County reported ever being tested for HIV

Please join Dr. Wells and the DOH-Duval Team on March 10, 2017 for National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Health Fair & Spoken Word Showcase.  This Showcase will promote the importance of testing and maintaining an healthy lifestyle through behavior choices and changes. The event will be held from 12:00pm until 2:00pm at the Edward Waters College Student Union Building, 1658 Kings Road Jacksonville, Florida 32209. 

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health, please visitwww.FloridaHealth.gov.

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH: 

Duval County celebrates National School Breakfast Week

Contact: 
Heidi Moore 
Heidi.Moore@flhealth.gov

904-253-1010

Jacksonville, Fla. — National School Breakfast Week (NSBW), taking place March 6 -10, 2017 this year, is a celebration of the school breakfast program, a federally funded program that makes it possible for school children to receive a nutritious breakfast every school day. The Department of Health in Duval County (DOH-Duval) is using the weeklong celebration to bring attention to the successful breakfast programs in Duval County schools.

“Research confirms that breakfast is the most important meal of the day for children’s health, academic achievement, cognitive development and mental health”, said Dr. Kelli Wells, Director of DOH-Duval. “We are strongly support the Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) and their commitment to providing breakfast, healthy meals, and healthy snacks”. 

Duval County has 198 schools and a student enrollment of over 128,000 students.  According to a 2015 survey of Duval County middle school students:

Ø  12.3% did not eat breakfast during the last 7 days

Ø  17.8% sometimes, most of the time, or always went hungry because there was not enough food at home during the last 30 days

Ø  16% ate vegetables 3+ times yesterday

Ø  22.8% ate fruit 3+ times yesterday

The same study also found that Duval County high school students:

Ø  12.0% ate vegetables 3+ times per day in the last 7 days

Ø  9.5% ate fruit 3+ times per day in the last 7 days

Now in its 28^th year, NSBW is an opportunity for school districts to ensure that parents and community members are aware of the healthy and tasty breakfast options available to students at school, as well as the numerous benefits of school breakfast. Eating breakfast at school canimprove student academic performance and behavior in the classroom, as well as improve health and reduce hunger among children who have limited or uncertain access to food at home.

To find out more about what’s happening this week in DCPS, go to www.duvalschools.org.  

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.  Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health, please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.