Second Finding of West Nile Virus in Onondaga County

Onondaga County Health Commissioner, Dr. Cynthia B. Morrow announced today that the New York State Health Department laboratory has reported finding evidence of West Nile virus in Onondaga County. The finding was in a mosquito pool collected at the Route 298 trap in the Town of Cicero on July 23, 2013 and sent to the New York State laboratory for testing. This is the second finding of West Nile virus in Onondaga County this year. There have been no human cases of West Nile virus this year to date.

Morrow reminded residents, “This finding is not unusual for this time of year. It is important that the public take measures to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and to keep your yard free from standing water to reduce the mosquito population near your home.”
Mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn. Personal protection is advised during outdoor activities. Personal protection measures include wearing shoes and socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt when outside for a long period of time. Applying a mosquito repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, or IR3535 is also recommended to prevent mosquito bites. Do not put the repellent directly onto children. Put it on your hands and apply it to your child. Do not put insect repellent on your face. Wash skin and clothing after returning indoors. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for application.
The following are ways of helping to reduce mosquito breeding grounds:
·        Throw away outdoor plastic containers, ceramic pots, or containers that hold water
·        Remove all tires from your property
·        Drill holes in the bottoms of recycling containers that are kept outdoors
·        Clean clogged rain gutters and make sure they continue to work properly
·        Turn over wheelbarrows and wading pools when not in use
·        Change water in bird baths at least every four days
·        Clear vegetation and debris from the edges of ponds
·        Clean chlorinated swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs
·        Drain water from pool covers
·        Use landscaping to eliminate low spots where standing water accumulates
For more information about personal protection measures contact the Onondaga County Health Department, Division of Environmental Health at 435-1649. For more information about mosquito borne disease visit www.ongov.net/health/mosquitoborne.html; this website is updated weekly.

First Evidence of West Nile virus in Onondaga County

Onondaga County Health Commissioner, Cynthia B. Morrow announced today that the New York State Health Department laboratory has reported finding evidence of West Nile virus in Onondaga County.  The finding was in a mosquito pool collected at the Minoa Sewage Treatment Plant (located on Kalin Drive in the Town of Manlius) on June 28, 2013 and sent to the New York State laboratory for testing.  This is the first finding of West Nile virus in Onondaga County this year. There have been no human cases of West Nile virus reported in Onondaga County this year.

Onondaga County started its adult mosquito surveillance program in May.  Dr. Morrow explained, “This is a reminder that it is essential that the public take measures to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes by consistently using personal protection measures.  Also, keep your yard free from standing water because this is a breeding ground for mosquitoes to multiply.”

Using personal protection measures is a key way in helping to reduce the risk of illness from mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are most active between dusk and dawn.  Personal protection is advised during outdoor activities.  Personal protection measures include wearing shoes and socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt when outside for a long period of time.  Applying a mosquito repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, or IR3535 is also recommended to prevent mosquito bites.  Do not put the repellent directly onto children.  Put it on your hands and apply it to your child.  Do not put insect repellent on your face.  Wash skin and clothing after returning indoors.  Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for application.

The following are ways of helping to reduce mosquito breeding grounds:
• Throw away outdoor plastic containers, ceramic pots, or containers that hold water
• Remove all tires from your property
• Drill holes in the bottoms of recycling containers that are kept outdoors
• Clean clogged rain gutters and make sure they continue to work properly
• Turn over wheelbarrows and wading pools when not in use
• Change water in bird baths at least every four days
• Clear vegetation and debris from the edges of ponds
• Clean chlorinated swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs
• Drain water from pool covers
• Use landscaping to eliminate low spots where standing water accumulates

For more information about personal protection measures and ways to reduce mosquito breeding, contact the Onondaga County Health Department, Division of Environmental Health at 435-1649.  For more information about mosquito borne disease visit www.ongov.net/health; this website is updated weekly.

National HIV Testing Day June 27, 2013

National HIV Testing Day June 27, 2013

 

Onondaga County Health Commissioner, Cynthia B. Morrow, encourages all Onondaga County residents to learn their HIV status.  The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that one out of five people living with HIV in the United States is  unaware of their HIV status. Because many people with HIV do not have symptoms, the only way to know if you have HIV is to get tested. Even if you do not feel sick, getting early treatment for HIV is important because  early treatment can help you live longer, have a healthier life, and can reduce the spread of HIV.

National HIV Testing Day offers an opportunity for people nationwide to learn their HIV status and to gain knowledge to take control of their health and their lives. On Wednesday, June 26, 2013 the CNY HIV Care Network is sponsoring “National HIV Testing Day” at the John H. Mulroy Civic Center located at 421 Montgomery Street in Syracuse. Free, confidential, and anonymous HIV Rapid Testing will be provided by the New York State Department of Health and AIDS Community Resources from 9:00 am -3:00 pm in Room 80 (located in the basement of the Civic Center). 

 

Did you know?

World wide:

  • Over 1.8 million people have died of AIDS
  • Over 34.2 million people are living with HIV/AIDS

United States:

  • 1.1 million people are currently living with HIV in the US, with approximately 47,500 new infections in 2010
  • 84% of new infections in women are heterosexually transmitted
  • 57% of all new infections in the US are people between the ages of 13 and 34 years of age

Onondaga County:

  • According to the most recently available data (cases reported and confirmed through December 2010) there were 1,323 total AIDS cases in Onondaga County
  • According to the most recently available data (cases reported and confirmed through December 2010) there were 957 individuals living with HIV/AIDS in Onondaga County
  • Of the cases reported and confirmed in 2010, there were 41 newly diagnosed HIV cases in Onondaga County

 

Take the Test and Take Control!

Oneida Shores park Beach Remains Closed for Swimming

Onondaga County Deputy Commissioner of Health, Linda Karmen, announced today that Oneida Shores Beach located in the town of Cicero, will remain closed for swimming due to continued high levels of E. coli bacteria in the water.  Swimming will not be allowed until bacteria levels return to acceptable levels. Karmen explained that the Health Department monitors lake water routinely and closes swimming when bacteria levels exceed acceptable standards.

Most varieties of E. coli are harmless or cause brief diarrhea. While only some types of bacteria will cause gastrointestinal illness, the presence of E. coli bacteria is an indicator of increased general bacterial action in the water. Anyone   concerned about gastrointestinal symptoms should contact their health care provider.

Raccoon Positive for Rabies

Onondaga County Health Commissioner, Dr. Cynthia B. Morrow, announced today that the New York State Health Department laboratory has reported that a raccoon found in the Town of Marcellus has tested positive for rabies.  This is the first positive rabies findings of the season.  The raccoon was seen in the vicinity of West Seneca Turnpike.  Any person who had physical contact with a raccoon in this area should call the Onondaga County Health Department Animal Disease Control Program at 435-3165 immediately.

Dr. Morrow stresses, “It is important not to touch or feed wildlife because they may be rabid.” Protecting yourself from rabies is important year round.  Rabies is a fatal disease that attacks the brain and spinal cord. It can take several weeks to several months for rabies symptoms to appear. Early treatment after an exposure can prevent rabies.

Any mammal can get rabies, but it is most often seen in bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes. Below are some steps to prevent rabies:
•  Teach children to stay away from unfamiliar animals, either wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly.
•  Wash any wound from an animal thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately.
•  If your family (or your pet) has been exposed to a bat, capture the bat and have it tested for rabies. If you awaken to find a bat in your room, or a    bat is present in the room of an unattended or sleeping child, or in a room with     someone with a mental impairment, seek medical advice and have the  bat tested.
•  Keep your pet’s vaccinations current. This is especially important for dogs, cats, and ferrets. Getting your pet vaccinated can help stop the spread    of rabies from wild animals to humans.

The Onondaga County Health Department offers a number of clinics throughout the year to protect your pet from rabies.   New York State Public Health Law requires that all puppies and kittens get an initial shot at three months of age, with a booster shot every three years. Ferrets must get a shot every year. For a full schedule of upcoming rabies clinics, or to view a video on how to capture a bat, visit www.ongov.net/health or call 435-3165.

cycle in the city

Looking for a great way to see the city and stay fit?  Starting Sunday, May 19, the Creating Healthy Places to Live, Work, and Play in Onondaga County program, the City of Syracuse, and numerous other partners will be offering a series of “Cycle in the City” bicycle rides.  The rides will provide an opportunity for residents to visit different areas of the city and see some of the sites the city has to offer through guided bicycle rides.

Cycle in the City will take place each month from May to October.  Additional dates for the Sunday rides are June 9, July 14, August 11, September 8, and October 6.  All rides will depart at 9:00 AM from the Syracuse Parks and Recreation offices back parking lot, located at 412 Spencer Street.   All bike rides are 10 miles.  A different area of the city will be highlighted each month.  Riders must be 12 years of age or older and helmets are required for every rider.   Rides are free and pre-registration is not required.

Riding a bicycle is good for your health and is also good for the environment.  Those who ride bicycles regularly for either transportation or recreation may have reduced rates of disease and increased cardiovascular fitness.   Biking is also an activity that is environmentally friendly, utilizes no fuel, and creates no air or noise pollution.

Come join us for a morning of fun and fitness!  For more information, please contact the Creating Healthy Places to Live, Work and Play in Onondaga County program at 435-3280.

Mosquito Borne Surveillance

The Onondaga County Health Department announced that the annual mosquito-borne virus surveillance and control program will start on or about May 20th and run through October 18th. The program consists of collecting and testing mosquitoes for various viruses including West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis. The program also uses larvicides to control mosquito population before the mosquitoes become breeding, biting adults. A list of pesticides that will be used along with their labels can be found on the Onondaga County website at www.ongov.net/health/mosquitoborne.html.  A written copy of the pesticide labels may be requested by calling 435-1649.

Boil Water Advisory in Marietta

The Onondaga County Health Department has been notified that a small cluster of private wells on Amber Road in Marietta is contaminated with bacteria. Although private wells are not regulated, the Onondaga County Health Department is working closely with the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the Onondaga County Soil and Water Conservation District to investigate and contain the potential source of the contamination and to provide guidance to residents who may be affected. The Onondaga County Health Department is presently conducting water sampling to assess the extent of the issue. Dr. Cynthia B. Morrow, Commissioner of Health, reassured explaining, “At this point there is no reason to believe that residents beyond the initial cluster will be affected. However, we think it is critical that the public is informed about this situation and provided education and guidance.” Dr. Morrow further explained that as a precaution the Health Department  delivered a boil water advisory yesterday  to each home within a half mile of the confirmed sample locations.
No further information is currently available. However, the Health Department will continue to keep the public informed as information becomes available.

Have you gotten your flu vaccine yet?

Date of Release: November 30, 2012:          For Further Information Please Call:
                                                                             Karyn Johnson, MSEd, CHES
                                                                             435-3280
Have you gotten your flu vaccine yet?
It’s not too late!
 
National Influenza Vaccination Week kicks off December 2nd and runs through December 8th. This week is set aside to raise awareness about the importance of getting a flu vaccination and to remind people that it is not too late.   The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months old and older get a flu shot each year.
Getting a flu vaccine every year is the best way to prevent yourself and others from getting the flu. In a typical year, over 200,000 people nationally visit the hospital because of flu complications. Although sometimes the flu may be mistaken for a severe cold, it can have much more serious effects for the young, the elderly, and others with health conditions.
The CDC continues to reinforce that an annual flu vaccine is particularly important for persons at high risk for complications due to the flu or for those who have contact with people at high risk. People at high risk include young children, persons over 50 years of age, pregnant women, and people with chronic medical conditions. People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications should also get a flu vaccine each year.
Flu vaccines cannot give you the flu because they are made from killed or weakened influenza viruses.  When side effects do occur, they are generally mild and include redness and soreness at the injection site for the flu shot; occasionally sore throat, runny nose; and rarely, fever after the nasal spray vaccine. While these symptoms can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, they are mild and resolve quickly when compared to a case of the flu.
Getting a flu vaccine helps to protect your health as well as that of your family, friends, and others.  Recognize National Influenza Vaccination Week by getting your flu vaccine … to protect yourself and others!

Shigella Cases Still on the Rise in Onondaga County

Earlier this year, the Onondaga County Health Department alerted the public about an outbreak of shigellosis in Onondaga County. Fortunately during the summer, the number of cases of shigellosis diminished; recently however, the Health Department began seeing more cases of this illness again.

Dr. Cynthia B. Morrow, Commissioner of Health, explained “to date, the Health Department has received reports of almost 120 confirmed and 50 probable cases of shigellosis.  Clusters of cases have been associated with child care and adult care programs, but many cases are scattered throughout the community, with a concentration in the city of Syracuse.  Furthermore, more than half of the ill individuals are children, mostly young children aged 5 and under.”  At this time, the Health Department believes the majority of cases are the result of ongoing person-to-person transmission within the community.  Because so many of the affected individuals are children, the Health Department has reached out to child care facilities and schools across the County to provide education about the outbreak and tips to prevent the spread of this disease.

Shigellosis is usually a food-borne gastrointestinal illness and is easily transmitted from person-to-person by fecal-oral route.  The Health Department is reminding the public that the best way to prevent shigellosis is by practicing good hand washing.  Hand washing with water and soap (alcohol-based hand gel can be used if soap and water are not available) is essential in helping to reduce the spread of this disease.  Be sure to wash hands:

  • after using the bathroom
  • before eating
  • after playing outdoors
  • after changing diapers
  • after petting animals
  • after sneezing, coughing, or blowing your nose
  • anytime that your hands are soiled

For more information about shigellosis or ways to reduce its spread, contact the Onondaga County Health Department at 435-3240.