As of April 29th, a 24-hour Swine Flu Information Line is now operational throughout Massachusetts. Provided by the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), the 211 line is open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Trained staff will answer your questions about swine flu or refer you to other resources if necessary.
To reach the information line, simply dial 211 from any telephone in Massachusetts. Translators are available for dozens of languages.
As always, please feel free to call the Amherst Public Health Department at 413-259-3007 with questions, comments or concerns. The Health Department is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Swine Flu: Late Update, 4/29/09
BOSTON — The Patrick Administration today announced the first confirmed cases of swine influenza in Massachusetts. According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH), the patients, two school-age residents of Middlesex County, are considered to have a mild case of the disease and are expected to make a complete recovery. Neither child attended school at any point during their illness, and their parents did not go to work during that time. Massachusetts is the sixth state to have confirmed cases of swine flu; there are now a total of 66 confirmed cases in the United States.
“Fortunately, the patients are not hospitalized and are expected to fully recover,” said Governor Deval Patrick. “We will continue to monitor the situation and work closely with our health officials and others to limit exposure.”
DPH officials continue to take steps to increase surveillance of influenza-like illness in Massachusetts, asking health care providers and hospital emergency departments to be on the lookout for flu-like symptoms — especially in people who have recently traveled to Mexico or any other area which has confirmed cases. If a provider suspects a patient may be infected with swine flu, DPH requests that they perform and submit a swab test for laboratory testing.
“We continue to work closely with partners at the local, state and federal level to monitor the spread of swine flu and act quickly to slow its spread,” said DPH Commissioner John Auerbach. “All Massachusetts residents can play an absolutely vital role in our efforts by taking simple, common-sense precautions to keep from getting and spreading the flu.”
These precautions include:
For general information on swine flu and the status of the nationwide outbreak, visit www.cdc.gov/swineflu. For more information on the Massachusetts response, and how to care for someone at home who has the flu, please visit www.mass.gov/dph/swineflu.
“Fortunately, the patients are not hospitalized and are expected to fully recover,” said Governor Deval Patrick. “We will continue to monitor the situation and work closely with our health officials and others to limit exposure.”
DPH officials continue to take steps to increase surveillance of influenza-like illness in Massachusetts, asking health care providers and hospital emergency departments to be on the lookout for flu-like symptoms — especially in people who have recently traveled to Mexico or any other area which has confirmed cases. If a provider suspects a patient may be infected with swine flu, DPH requests that they perform and submit a swab test for laboratory testing.
“We continue to work closely with partners at the local, state and federal level to monitor the spread of swine flu and act quickly to slow its spread,” said DPH Commissioner John Auerbach. “All Massachusetts residents can play an absolutely vital role in our efforts by taking simple, common-sense precautions to keep from getting and spreading the flu.”
These precautions include:
- wash your hands often with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer;
- cough or sneeze into a tissue or into your elbow instead of into your hands;
- if you’re sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to avoid infecting them
At the federal level, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have begun shipment of significant quantities of materials to help states including Massachusetts prepare and respondto the spread of swine flu. These materials include antiviral medications for treatment of individuals who are sick, along with other medical equipment and supplies if needed.
For general information on swine flu and the status of the nationwide outbreak, visit www.cdc.gov/swineflu. For more information on the Massachusetts response, and how to care for someone at home who has the flu, please visit www.mass.gov/dph/swineflu.
Swine Flu Update, 4/29/09
From the MA Department of Public Health:
State health officials continue to work closely with partners at the federal, state and local level to respond to the swine flu outbreak in the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has declared the outbreak of swine flu a public health emergency.
As part of that declaration, federal officials have begun shipment of significant quantities of materials to help states prepare and respond to the spread of swine flu. These materials include antiviral medications for treatment of individuals who are sick, along with other medical equipment and supplies that may be needed if the current situation changes. Massachusetts will begin receiving initial quantities of these materials in the coming days.
“This is understandably a concerning time for Massachusetts residents who have heard so much about swine flu over the past couple of days,” said DPH Commissioner John Auerbach. “However, I want to assure everyone that our team is working overtime on this matter and I am confident that we are taking all necessary precautions to protect the people of the Commonwealth.”
DPH officials continue to take steps to increase surveillance of influenza-like illness in Massachusetts, asking health care providers and hospital emergency departments to be on the lookout for flu-like symptoms -- especially in people who have recently traveled to Mexico or any of the U.S. states which have confirmed cases. If a provider suspects a patient may be infected with swine flu, DPH requests that they perform and submit a swab test for laboratory testing.
Even though no cases have been identified in Massachusetts, there are steps that everyone can take to prevent getting or spreading any type of influenza: wash your hands often with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer; cough or sneeze into a tissue or into your elbow instead of into your hands; and if you’re sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to avoid infecting them.
Swine influenza is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses. Outbreaks of swine flu happen regularly in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Most commonly, human cases of swine flu happen in people who are around pigs but it’s possible for swine flu viruses to spread from person to person as well. Swine flu is not transmitted by food and you cannot get swine flu by eating pork products.
For general information on swine flu and the status of the nationwide outbreak, visit www.cdc.gov/swineflu. For more information on the Massachusetts response, and how to care for someone at home who has the flu, please visit www.mass.gov/dph.
State health officials continue to work closely with partners at the federal, state and local level to respond to the swine flu outbreak in the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has declared the outbreak of swine flu a public health emergency.
As part of that declaration, federal officials have begun shipment of significant quantities of materials to help states prepare and respond to the spread of swine flu. These materials include antiviral medications for treatment of individuals who are sick, along with other medical equipment and supplies that may be needed if the current situation changes. Massachusetts will begin receiving initial quantities of these materials in the coming days.
“This is understandably a concerning time for Massachusetts residents who have heard so much about swine flu over the past couple of days,” said DPH Commissioner John Auerbach. “However, I want to assure everyone that our team is working overtime on this matter and I am confident that we are taking all necessary precautions to protect the people of the Commonwealth.”
DPH officials continue to take steps to increase surveillance of influenza-like illness in Massachusetts, asking health care providers and hospital emergency departments to be on the lookout for flu-like symptoms -- especially in people who have recently traveled to Mexico or any of the U.S. states which have confirmed cases. If a provider suspects a patient may be infected with swine flu, DPH requests that they perform and submit a swab test for laboratory testing.
Even though no cases have been identified in Massachusetts, there are steps that everyone can take to prevent getting or spreading any type of influenza: wash your hands often with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer; cough or sneeze into a tissue or into your elbow instead of into your hands; and if you’re sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to avoid infecting them.
Swine influenza is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses. Outbreaks of swine flu happen regularly in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Most commonly, human cases of swine flu happen in people who are around pigs but it’s possible for swine flu viruses to spread from person to person as well. Swine flu is not transmitted by food and you cannot get swine flu by eating pork products.
For general information on swine flu and the status of the nationwide outbreak, visit www.cdc.gov/swineflu. For more information on the Massachusetts response, and how to care for someone at home who has the flu, please visit www.mass.gov/dph.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Swine Flu Update
The Amherst Public Health Department would like residents, business owners, and town employees to know that we are monitoring the current swine flu outbreak very closely and will keep the public informed of changes and new alerts as they happen.
Yesterday, Health Department staff participated in a conference call with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health in which we were given updates on the current situation, as well as the response being mounted by the state. We are confident that DPH, the CDC, and other players in the public health arena are responding appropriately and swiftly, and we are in frequent contact with state officials as they disseminate new information to local boards of health, schools, and municipal governments.
While this is not a time for panic, it is indeed a time for vigilance and circumspectful caution, and we encourage residents, visitors and business owners to practice the same precautions that would be in place during the regular flu season. Avoid holding, hugging, kissing, or shaking hands with anyone who has a cold or the flu. Avoid touching your nose, mouth or eyes without first washing your hands. Also avoid touching things like doorknobs, door handles, faucets and telephones that infected individuals might also use.
If you or someone you know exhibits signs of flu (fever, shortness of breath, cough, sore throat, headache, body aches, or other symptoms), do not go to work, school or public recreational activities. Call your health care provider, describe your symptoms, and stay home for at least 7 days to rest and keep hydrated. If your fever rises or symptoms worsen, cover your nose and mouth with a mask and seek attention at a doctor's office or emergency room.
Children, the elderly and the chronically ill can be especially vulnerable to flu-like illnesses, so take extra precautions with these family members. If any ill person develops chest pain, purple or blue discoloration of the lips, vomiting, signs of dehydration (like dizziness, absence of urination, or lack of tears in infants), or seizures, seek medical attention immediately.
For more information about swine flu, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's swine flu website at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/, or call the Health Department at 259-3077.
Yesterday, Health Department staff participated in a conference call with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health in which we were given updates on the current situation, as well as the response being mounted by the state. We are confident that DPH, the CDC, and other players in the public health arena are responding appropriately and swiftly, and we are in frequent contact with state officials as they disseminate new information to local boards of health, schools, and municipal governments.
While this is not a time for panic, it is indeed a time for vigilance and circumspectful caution, and we encourage residents, visitors and business owners to practice the same precautions that would be in place during the regular flu season. Avoid holding, hugging, kissing, or shaking hands with anyone who has a cold or the flu. Avoid touching your nose, mouth or eyes without first washing your hands. Also avoid touching things like doorknobs, door handles, faucets and telephones that infected individuals might also use.
If you or someone you know exhibits signs of flu (fever, shortness of breath, cough, sore throat, headache, body aches, or other symptoms), do not go to work, school or public recreational activities. Call your health care provider, describe your symptoms, and stay home for at least 7 days to rest and keep hydrated. If your fever rises or symptoms worsen, cover your nose and mouth with a mask and seek attention at a doctor's office or emergency room.
Children, the elderly and the chronically ill can be especially vulnerable to flu-like illnesses, so take extra precautions with these family members. If any ill person develops chest pain, purple or blue discoloration of the lips, vomiting, signs of dehydration (like dizziness, absence of urination, or lack of tears in infants), or seizures, seek medical attention immediately.
For more information about swine flu, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's swine flu website at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/, or call the Health Department at 259-3077.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Swine Flu Update from MA DPH
The following is a copy of the most recent press release from the MA Department of Public Health regarding recent outbreaks of swine flu. Please call the Health Department at 259-3077 for more information, or stay tuned to this blog for updates.
BOSTON – State health officials continue to work closely with partners at the federal, state and local level to respond to the swine flu outbreak in the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has declared the outbreak of swine flu a public health emergency.
As part of that declaration, federal officials have begun shipment of significant quantities of materials to help states prepare and respond to the spread of swine flu. These materials include antiviral medications for treatment of individuals who are sick, along with other medical equipment and supplies that may be needed if the current situation changes. Massachusetts will begin receiving initial quantities of these materials in the coming days.
“This is understandably a concerning time for Massachusetts residents who have heard so much about swine flu over the past couple of days,” said DPH Commissioner John Auerbach. “However, I want to assure everyone that our team is working overtime on this matter and I am confident that we are taking all necessary precautions to protect the people of the Commonwealth.”
DPH officials continue to take steps to increase surveillance of influenza-like illness in Massachusetts, asking health care providers and hospital emergency departments to be on the lookout for flu-like symptoms -- especially in people who have recently traveled to Mexico or any of the U.S. states which have confirmed cases. If a provider suspects a patient may be infected with swine flu, DPH requests that they perform and submit a swab test for laboratory testing.
Even though no cases have been identified in Massachusetts, there are steps that everyone can take to prevent getting or spreading any type of influenza: wash your hands often with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer; cough or sneeze into a tissue or into your elbow instead of into your hands; and if you’re sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to avoid infecting them.
Swine influenza is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses. Outbreaks of swine flu happen regularly in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Most commonly, human cases of swine flu happen in people who are around pigs but it’s possible for swine flu viruses to spread from person to person as well. Swine flu is not transmitted by food and you cannot get swine flu by eating pork products.
For general information on swine flu and the status of the nationwide outbreak, visit www.cdc.gov/swineflu. For more information on the Massachusetts response, and how to care for someone at home who has the flu, please visit www.mass.gov/dph.
BOSTON – State health officials continue to work closely with partners at the federal, state and local level to respond to the swine flu outbreak in the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has declared the outbreak of swine flu a public health emergency.
As part of that declaration, federal officials have begun shipment of significant quantities of materials to help states prepare and respond to the spread of swine flu. These materials include antiviral medications for treatment of individuals who are sick, along with other medical equipment and supplies that may be needed if the current situation changes. Massachusetts will begin receiving initial quantities of these materials in the coming days.
“This is understandably a concerning time for Massachusetts residents who have heard so much about swine flu over the past couple of days,” said DPH Commissioner John Auerbach. “However, I want to assure everyone that our team is working overtime on this matter and I am confident that we are taking all necessary precautions to protect the people of the Commonwealth.”
DPH officials continue to take steps to increase surveillance of influenza-like illness in Massachusetts, asking health care providers and hospital emergency departments to be on the lookout for flu-like symptoms -- especially in people who have recently traveled to Mexico or any of the U.S. states which have confirmed cases. If a provider suspects a patient may be infected with swine flu, DPH requests that they perform and submit a swab test for laboratory testing.
Even though no cases have been identified in Massachusetts, there are steps that everyone can take to prevent getting or spreading any type of influenza: wash your hands often with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer; cough or sneeze into a tissue or into your elbow instead of into your hands; and if you’re sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to avoid infecting them.
Swine influenza is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses. Outbreaks of swine flu happen regularly in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Most commonly, human cases of swine flu happen in people who are around pigs but it’s possible for swine flu viruses to spread from person to person as well. Swine flu is not transmitted by food and you cannot get swine flu by eating pork products.
For general information on swine flu and the status of the nationwide outbreak, visit www.cdc.gov/swineflu. For more information on the Massachusetts response, and how to care for someone at home who has the flu, please visit www.mass.gov/dph.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Prediabetes: A Window of Opportunity
By: Terri Mendoza, Director of the Diabetes Prevention and Control Program, MA Department of Public Health
A touch of sugar? Borderline diabetes? Has your doctor told you that you have either of these? If so, you most likely have prediabetes. But there’s good news-- by making just a few changes now, you can delay or even prevent yourself from getting diabetes in the future.
Here’s what you need to know:
What is prediabetes?
It is when the level of sugar in your blood is high, but not high enough to be considered diabetes.
Why should I worry about prediabetes?
People with prediabetes are more likely to develop diabetes within 10 years and are more likely to have a heart attack or stroke.
How do I know if I have prediabetes?
People with prediabetes usually have no symptoms. The only way to tell if you have prediabetes is by a blood test. If you are 45 years or older, you should be tested for prediabetes. If you are under age 45, are overweight or obese AND you have one of the following risk factors, ask your doctor to check for prediabetes:
Are physically active less than three times a week
Have high blood pressure
Have abnormal cholesterol levels (an HDL or “good” cholesterol <35>250 mg/dL)
Are Latino, African-American, Native American, Asian or Pacific Islander
Have a parent, brother or sister with diabetes
Gave birth to a baby weighing more than nine pounds or had gestational diabetes (diabetes that first appeared during pregnancy but may have gone away after your baby was born)
Have had high blood sugars in the past
Have certain health conditions, like blood vessel problems, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), or acanthosis nigricans
Here’s What You Can Do About It:
Watch your weight:
If you are overweight, losing just 5 to 7% of your current body weight can help. That means that if you weigh 200 pounds, losing just 10 to 14 pounds can help prevent diabetes. Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables, lean meats, low-fat dairy products, and whole grains will help you lose those pounds safely.
Get moving:
Being physically active for 150 minutes a week, or 30 minutes a day 5 days of the week, can also help you lose weight and keep you healthy. Now that milder spring weather is coming our way, it will feel great to go for a walk, ride a bike, play ball, swim, roller skate…you name it!
Keep checking:
It’s important to keep tabs on your blood sugar levels. If you have prediabetes, ask your doctor to check your blood sugar every year to make sure it’s not going up.
For more information on how to prevent diabetes, visit Small Steps, Big Rewards. And for free educational materials, visit the Massachusetts Health Promotion Clearinghouse or call 1-800-952-6637.
----
This article was originally published on the MA Department of Public Health blog, Commonwealth Conversations.
A touch of sugar? Borderline diabetes? Has your doctor told you that you have either of these? If so, you most likely have prediabetes. But there’s good news-- by making just a few changes now, you can delay or even prevent yourself from getting diabetes in the future.
Here’s what you need to know:
What is prediabetes?
It is when the level of sugar in your blood is high, but not high enough to be considered diabetes.
Why should I worry about prediabetes?
People with prediabetes are more likely to develop diabetes within 10 years and are more likely to have a heart attack or stroke.
How do I know if I have prediabetes?
People with prediabetes usually have no symptoms. The only way to tell if you have prediabetes is by a blood test. If you are 45 years or older, you should be tested for prediabetes. If you are under age 45, are overweight or obese AND you have one of the following risk factors, ask your doctor to check for prediabetes:
Are physically active less than three times a week
Have high blood pressure
Have abnormal cholesterol levels (an HDL or “good” cholesterol <35>250 mg/dL)
Are Latino, African-American, Native American, Asian or Pacific Islander
Have a parent, brother or sister with diabetes
Gave birth to a baby weighing more than nine pounds or had gestational diabetes (diabetes that first appeared during pregnancy but may have gone away after your baby was born)
Have had high blood sugars in the past
Have certain health conditions, like blood vessel problems, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), or acanthosis nigricans
Here’s What You Can Do About It:
Watch your weight:
If you are overweight, losing just 5 to 7% of your current body weight can help. That means that if you weigh 200 pounds, losing just 10 to 14 pounds can help prevent diabetes. Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables, lean meats, low-fat dairy products, and whole grains will help you lose those pounds safely.
Get moving:
Being physically active for 150 minutes a week, or 30 minutes a day 5 days of the week, can also help you lose weight and keep you healthy. Now that milder spring weather is coming our way, it will feel great to go for a walk, ride a bike, play ball, swim, roller skate…you name it!
Keep checking:
It’s important to keep tabs on your blood sugar levels. If you have prediabetes, ask your doctor to check your blood sugar every year to make sure it’s not going up.
For more information on how to prevent diabetes, visit Small Steps, Big Rewards. And for free educational materials, visit the Massachusetts Health Promotion Clearinghouse or call 1-800-952-6637.
----
This article was originally published on the MA Department of Public Health blog, Commonwealth Conversations.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Win an iPod Nano and Decrease Your Stress!
Habits of Health, a 44-day pen-and-paper survey of your personal stress management practices, is now available from the Health Department. Every town and school employee who completes the survey will be automatically entered in a raffle to win fabulous prizes:
So, please email Keith Carlson, RN at carlsonk@amherstma.gov to request a survey today! If there are multiple employees in your department who are interested, Keith will happily send a stack of surveys via interoffice mail!
Want to win that iPod or hot-tub soak? Learn to manage your stress and you may be the lucky winner!
- Grand Prize: An iPod Nano
- Second Prize: A one-hour hot-tub soak for two at Elements Spa
- Third Prize: A one-hour hot-tub soak for two at Elements Spa
So, please email Keith Carlson, RN at carlsonk@amherstma.gov to request a survey today! If there are multiple employees in your department who are interested, Keith will happily send a stack of surveys via interoffice mail!
Want to win that iPod or hot-tub soak? Learn to manage your stress and you may be the lucky winner!
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Benefits Fair on April 29th!
Come join the fun on April 29th from 12pm to 2 pm at the Bangs Community Center or from 2:30pm to 4:30pm at the Amherst High School.
There will be representatives from Blue Cross Blue Shield and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, CanaRX, Sentinel Benefits Group, Boston Mutual Life Ins. Company, Great West Retirement, Hampshire County Retirement, Northwestern Mutual Disability, Employee Assistance Program, Fitness Together, Elements Spa, Leading Edge Gym, Hampshire Fitness, Halle Mermelstein Acupuncturist, Medical Reserve Corps, and Delta Dental.
There will be chair massages, cholesterol screening, BMI testing, a raffle for a yoga mat, gifts, employee discounts from vendors, a walking club, free pedometers for the first 300 visitors and more…..
You will also have a chance to enroll in a self-administered 44-day stress management survey and have a chance to win an iPod Nano!
Remember this is open enrollment and a great opportunity to meet your benefit providers and ask your questions!!
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Unnatural Causes: A Film Screening and Community Dialogue
As part of its work on Social Justice and Health Equity, The Town of Amherst and the
The Town of Amherst Department of Public Health is extending a special invitation to: Town Meeting and Select Board members; Amherst Residents, and all interested people to a screening and discussion of:
UNNATURAL CAUSES: Is Inequality Making Us Sick?
Date: 19 May 2009
Time: 5:00—7:00
Place: Amherst Cinema
The screening will include a forum—Implications of inequality and health for the Amherst community: A dialogue among participants—facilitated by Dr. J. Love and introductions by Amherst Public Health Director, Epi Bodhi.
Light refreshment will we be served on sight prior to the screening
The Screening will be followed by a reception at Amherst Coffee
For more information, please visit our blog
http://amhersthealth.blogspot.com/.
The Town of Amherst Department of Public Health is extending a special invitation to: Town Meeting and Select Board members; Amherst Residents, and all interested people to a screening and discussion of:
UNNATURAL CAUSES: Is Inequality Making Us Sick?
Date: 19 May 2009
Time: 5:00—7:00
Place: Amherst Cinema
The screening will include a forum—Implications of inequality and health for the Amherst community: A dialogue among participants—facilitated by Dr. J. Love and introductions by Amherst Public Health Director, Epi Bodhi.
Light refreshment will we be served on sight prior to the screening
The Screening will be followed by a reception at Amherst Coffee
For more information, please visit our blog
http://amhersthealth.blogspot.com/.
You can also view the film's PBS website by clicking here.
Our thanks to Amherst Cinema and Amherst Coffee for your community support!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Pedometers!
The Health Department has 300 free pedometers for anyone interested in using one! Pedometers are a great tool to modify your behavior and encourage you to keep moving, take the stairs instead of the elevator, and send your documents to the printer that's furthest from your desk!
If a group of employees in a particular department all get pedometers, you can support one another, and perhaps even reward yourselves with a special treat or outing when everyone has reached a specified goal for the month. Be creative, and let us know what you do!
To obtain a pedometer, call Keith Carlson at x3161 or email carlsonk@amherstma.gov
If a group of employees in a particular department all get pedometers, you can support one another, and perhaps even reward yourselves with a special treat or outing when everyone has reached a specified goal for the month. Be creative, and let us know what you do!
To obtain a pedometer, call Keith Carlson at x3161 or email carlsonk@amherstma.gov
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Making Your Home Cleaner, Greener and Safer
We would like to share with you an excellent article entitled "The 10 Easiest Ways to Make Your Home Greener, Cleaner and Safer." The article reviews ways to accomplish this goal, including:
Here's to healthy homes!
- Stopping dirt at the door
- Reducing, reusing and recycling
- Cleaning early and often
- Becoming a savvy consumer
- Going fragrance-free
- Making your own cleaning products
- Using natural ventilation
- Keeping drains clean and clear
- Hosting a "green cleaning" party
- Hiring a professional
Here's to healthy homes!
Monday, April 13, 2009
Opportunities for Employee Wellness & Great Prizes! Win an iPod Nano!
The Health Department is planning several initiatives in the interest of employee wellness. Although we will officially launch these initiatives at the Employee Benefits Fairs on April 29th (being held at the Bangs Community Center from 12-2 and at the high school from 2:30-4:30), we encourage any interested employee to contact us any time regarding what's on offer.
The first program is a 44-day self-assessment tool in which participating employees will track the strategies that they utilize to manage stress and increase wellness. By completing this simple survey by June 26th and submitting it to Keith Carlson, the Public Health Nurse at the Amherst Health Department, each employee will be entered in a raffle to win our grand prize---an iPod Nano---or our second and third prizes---a one-hour hot-tub soak for two at Elements Spa!
Additionally, Fitness Together on Main Street in Amherst is offering a free session with a personal trainer for all Amherst employees---whether they work for the schools or the town itself. This session will include body fat %, body measurements, weight, strength test, cardiovascular test, and flexibility test, and each participant will get a detailed print out of all of their results. There will be no pressure to become a client, but a discount will be offered for any town or school employee interested in pursuing training at Fitness Together's Main Street facility.
Finally, the Health Department has 300 free pedometers to distribute to interested employees. These pedometers are easy to use and accurately count the number of steps you take each day. Pedometers are a great way to improve your overall fitness by providing an incentive to walk more, use the stairs if you're able, and keep your body moving. And if enough employees are interested, a weekly lunchtime walking club may be instituted beginning the first week of May!
So, these are some of the ways that the Health Department is addressing the wellness and fitness of Amherst's employees. Please consider taking part in any (or all) of our programs, and let us know if there are other ways in which we can meet your needs.
Happy Spring, and see you at the benefits fairs on April 29th!
The first program is a 44-day self-assessment tool in which participating employees will track the strategies that they utilize to manage stress and increase wellness. By completing this simple survey by June 26th and submitting it to Keith Carlson, the Public Health Nurse at the Amherst Health Department, each employee will be entered in a raffle to win our grand prize---an iPod Nano---or our second and third prizes---a one-hour hot-tub soak for two at Elements Spa!
Additionally, Fitness Together on Main Street in Amherst is offering a free session with a personal trainer for all Amherst employees---whether they work for the schools or the town itself. This session will include body fat %, body measurements, weight, strength test, cardiovascular test, and flexibility test, and each participant will get a detailed print out of all of their results. There will be no pressure to become a client, but a discount will be offered for any town or school employee interested in pursuing training at Fitness Together's Main Street facility.
Finally, the Health Department has 300 free pedometers to distribute to interested employees. These pedometers are easy to use and accurately count the number of steps you take each day. Pedometers are a great way to improve your overall fitness by providing an incentive to walk more, use the stairs if you're able, and keep your body moving. And if enough employees are interested, a weekly lunchtime walking club may be instituted beginning the first week of May!
So, these are some of the ways that the Health Department is addressing the wellness and fitness of Amherst's employees. Please consider taking part in any (or all) of our programs, and let us know if there are other ways in which we can meet your needs.
Happy Spring, and see you at the benefits fairs on April 29th!
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Stretch Your Potential: A Total Body Stretching Program
By Laura York, Department of Public Health Director of the Coordinated School Health Program at DPH and a NASM certified personal trainer.
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It’s easy to forget that flexibility is an important part of your overall health and fitness. But being flexible can improve your range of motion, posture and circulation, reduce your risk of injury and muscle soreness, make daily activities easier to perform and provide stress relief. All of these benefits can easily be yours by adding stretching into your weekly routine!
Here is a total body stretching program that you can do anytime, anywhere. Do this routine a minimum of two to three times per week. It should only take about 10 minutes to complete. If you have back, joint or other health problems, talk with your doctor first.
Before you get started
Stretching muscles when they're cold increases your risk of pulled muscles so warm up first by marching or jogging in place or plan to stretch right after you’ve done some physical activity.
Hold each stretch for at least 20-30 seconds and don’t bounce. Stretch to the point of mild tension and avoid locking your joints. Relax and take deep breaths while you stretch. Be sure not to hold your breath! If you feel any pain during a stretch, you've gone too far so back off a little. Some of the following stretches take place on the floor so use a soft surface like a rug or thick towel for those ones.
Neck stretch
Stand with your legs hip width apart, knees slightly bent, and toes pointed forward. Place your left arm behind your back and bend your elbow so that the back of your hand rests on your lower back. Tuck your chin to your chest and draw your right ear toward your right shoulder. For a deeper stretch, use your right hand to gently pull your head down even further. Switch sides and repeat.
Chest stretch
Stand with your legs hip width apart, knees slightly bent, and toes pointed forward. Bend your elbows slightly and reach back to clasp your hands behind your lower back. Gently raise your hands up until you feel a stretch across your chest.
Upper back stretch
Stand with your legs hip width apart, knees slightly bent, and toes pointed forward. Bring your arms straight out in front of you at shoulder height and clasp your hands together, palms facing outward. Tuck your chin down to your chest and round your shoulders forward.
Shoulder stretch
Stand with your legs hip width apart, knees slightly bent, and toes pointed forward. Place your left arm across your body at shoulder height and gently pull it toward your right shoulder with your right hand, holding your left arm either above or below the elbow. To deepen the stretch, look over your left shoulder. Switch sides and repeat.
Quadricep stretch
Stand next to a wall or sturdy piece of furniture and place your left hand on it for balance. Bend your right knee behind you and reach back with your right hand to grasp your ankle or the top of your foot. Gently pull your heel up until you feel a stretch along the front of your thigh. Make sure to keep your knees together and pointed down toward the floor during the stretch. To deepen the stretch, press your right hip slightly forward. Switch legs and repeat.
Hamstring stretch
Stand with your knees slightly bent and hands on hips. Stick you right heel into the floor about 6 inches in front of you, flexing the right foot. Keeping your head up and right leg and back straight, slowly bend your left knee and lean forward until you feel a stretch down the back of your right leg. Switch legs and repeat.
Hip stretch
Kneel down on your right knee, place your left foot in front of you and bend your leg at a 90 degree angle. With your hands on your hips and back straight, lean forward into the left knee until you feel a stretch along the front of your right hip. Make sure your left knee doesn’t go past your toes. For a deeper stretch, lift your right arm straight up and slightly over to the left side, keeping your hips facing forward. Switch legs and repeat.
Outer thigh stretch
Sit on the floor with your left leg straight out in front of you and right leg bent. Cross the bent right leg over the left and place your right foot flat on the floor. Keeping your back straight, gently press your left elbow against your outer right thigh and slowly twist your upper body to the right. Place your right hand on the floor behind you, fingertips facing away from your body. Keep pressing your left elbow into your right leg and slowly look over your right shoulder. Switch legs and repeat.
Inner thigh stretch
Take a seat on the floor with your legs straight out in front of you. Sitting straight up, spread your legs as far apart as they will go and place your hands on the floor in between your legs. Keeping your back straight and head up, slowly lean forward and reach your hands out along the floor until you feel a stretch in your inner thighs.
Abdominal stretch
Lie down on your stomach with your legs straight behind you and palms on the floor by your chest. Slowly straighten your elbows, puff your chest out and slightly tilt your head up until you feel a stretch along your abs.
Low back stretch
Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Place both hands on top of your right shin, just below the knee, and gently pull your knee up into your chest. For a deeper stretch, straighten your left leg out along the floor. Switch legs and repeat.
Ahh! You should feel very limber and relaxed now. Like any aspect of fitness, increasing your flexibility takes time and consistency but the efforts will be well worth it and feel great!
------------
This blog post was originally posted on the MA DPH blog, Commonwealth Conversations, and is reproduced with the kind permission of the MA Department of Public Health.
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It’s easy to forget that flexibility is an important part of your overall health and fitness. But being flexible can improve your range of motion, posture and circulation, reduce your risk of injury and muscle soreness, make daily activities easier to perform and provide stress relief. All of these benefits can easily be yours by adding stretching into your weekly routine!
Here is a total body stretching program that you can do anytime, anywhere. Do this routine a minimum of two to three times per week. It should only take about 10 minutes to complete. If you have back, joint or other health problems, talk with your doctor first.
Before you get started
Stretching muscles when they're cold increases your risk of pulled muscles so warm up first by marching or jogging in place or plan to stretch right after you’ve done some physical activity.
Hold each stretch for at least 20-30 seconds and don’t bounce. Stretch to the point of mild tension and avoid locking your joints. Relax and take deep breaths while you stretch. Be sure not to hold your breath! If you feel any pain during a stretch, you've gone too far so back off a little. Some of the following stretches take place on the floor so use a soft surface like a rug or thick towel for those ones.
Neck stretch
Stand with your legs hip width apart, knees slightly bent, and toes pointed forward. Place your left arm behind your back and bend your elbow so that the back of your hand rests on your lower back. Tuck your chin to your chest and draw your right ear toward your right shoulder. For a deeper stretch, use your right hand to gently pull your head down even further. Switch sides and repeat.
Chest stretch
Stand with your legs hip width apart, knees slightly bent, and toes pointed forward. Bend your elbows slightly and reach back to clasp your hands behind your lower back. Gently raise your hands up until you feel a stretch across your chest.
Upper back stretch
Stand with your legs hip width apart, knees slightly bent, and toes pointed forward. Bring your arms straight out in front of you at shoulder height and clasp your hands together, palms facing outward. Tuck your chin down to your chest and round your shoulders forward.
Shoulder stretch
Stand with your legs hip width apart, knees slightly bent, and toes pointed forward. Place your left arm across your body at shoulder height and gently pull it toward your right shoulder with your right hand, holding your left arm either above or below the elbow. To deepen the stretch, look over your left shoulder. Switch sides and repeat.
Quadricep stretch
Stand next to a wall or sturdy piece of furniture and place your left hand on it for balance. Bend your right knee behind you and reach back with your right hand to grasp your ankle or the top of your foot. Gently pull your heel up until you feel a stretch along the front of your thigh. Make sure to keep your knees together and pointed down toward the floor during the stretch. To deepen the stretch, press your right hip slightly forward. Switch legs and repeat.
Hamstring stretch
Stand with your knees slightly bent and hands on hips. Stick you right heel into the floor about 6 inches in front of you, flexing the right foot. Keeping your head up and right leg and back straight, slowly bend your left knee and lean forward until you feel a stretch down the back of your right leg. Switch legs and repeat.
Hip stretch
Kneel down on your right knee, place your left foot in front of you and bend your leg at a 90 degree angle. With your hands on your hips and back straight, lean forward into the left knee until you feel a stretch along the front of your right hip. Make sure your left knee doesn’t go past your toes. For a deeper stretch, lift your right arm straight up and slightly over to the left side, keeping your hips facing forward. Switch legs and repeat.
Outer thigh stretch
Sit on the floor with your left leg straight out in front of you and right leg bent. Cross the bent right leg over the left and place your right foot flat on the floor. Keeping your back straight, gently press your left elbow against your outer right thigh and slowly twist your upper body to the right. Place your right hand on the floor behind you, fingertips facing away from your body. Keep pressing your left elbow into your right leg and slowly look over your right shoulder. Switch legs and repeat.
Inner thigh stretch
Take a seat on the floor with your legs straight out in front of you. Sitting straight up, spread your legs as far apart as they will go and place your hands on the floor in between your legs. Keeping your back straight and head up, slowly lean forward and reach your hands out along the floor until you feel a stretch in your inner thighs.
Abdominal stretch
Lie down on your stomach with your legs straight behind you and palms on the floor by your chest. Slowly straighten your elbows, puff your chest out and slightly tilt your head up until you feel a stretch along your abs.
Low back stretch
Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Place both hands on top of your right shin, just below the knee, and gently pull your knee up into your chest. For a deeper stretch, straighten your left leg out along the floor. Switch legs and repeat.
Ahh! You should feel very limber and relaxed now. Like any aspect of fitness, increasing your flexibility takes time and consistency but the efforts will be well worth it and feel great!
------------
This blog post was originally posted on the MA DPH blog, Commonwealth Conversations, and is reproduced with the kind permission of the MA Department of Public Health.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Please Stay Tuned
Keith Carlson, the Public Health Nurse for the Amherst Health Department, will be attending an Emergency Preparedness Summit in Dallas, Texas from April 3rd through April 8th in order to better assist the town in being prepared for public health emergencies and other disasters.
This blog will most likely not be updated until Keith's return. Thank you for your patience and please check the blog again after April 9th!
Happy Spring!
This blog will most likely not be updated until Keith's return. Thank you for your patience and please check the blog again after April 9th!
Happy Spring!
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
A Salty Issue
By Kara Ryan, Nutrition Education Specialist at MA Department of Public Heath
Some of us were born with a sweet tooth. Others yearn for a salty crunch. No matter what your preference, sodium—otherwise knows as salt— is hard to avoid.
Sodium does have its benefits—it gives foods added flavor and it can act as a preservative in processed foods. Sodium does great things for our bodies as it helps to keep our fluids in check and keeps our muscles moving well. But too much sodium can do more harm than good.
The current recommendation for sodium is no more than 2,300 mg a day. That’s equal to 1 tsp of salt. It probably won’t surprise you to know that most adults eat 2 to 3 times this amount. While 2,300 mg may be thought of as the ‘standard’ recommendation, the advice for middle aged adults and anyone who may be at risk for high blood pressure is to eat no more than 1500 mg of sodium. That’s no more than 2/3 teaspoon of sodium each day for more than half of Americans!
All of us, no matter our health, our age or our family background, should watch our sodium intake. Rather than going full-throttle and limiting all sodium, start slowly. If you limit everything at once, it may be hard to stick with it.
Begin by cutting back on the use of the salt shaker. Instead of shaking salt on your dishes, try using herbs or spices, salt-free herb blends, lemon juice, or vinegar. If you are a salt lover, don’t worry, your taste for salty flavors will begin to dwindle.
Once you have mastered control of the salt shaker, start cooking your foods without adding salt. If a recipe calls for a teaspoon of salt, try using only half a teaspoon or replace salt with herbs and spices.
When buying snack foods, popcorn, crackers, soups, canned fish, canned vegetables and vegetable juices, make sure the label says, “low sodium,” “reduced sodium,” or “no-salt-added.”
Re-think fast food. You would be surprised by how much sodium is in fast food items! At 3 major fast food chains:
Do you have any tips on making food tasty without adding salt? We’d love to hear from you!
-------
This blog post was reproduced with the kind permission of the MA Department of Public Health and was originally published on their blog, Commonwealth Conversations.
Some of us were born with a sweet tooth. Others yearn for a salty crunch. No matter what your preference, sodium—otherwise knows as salt— is hard to avoid.
Sodium does have its benefits—it gives foods added flavor and it can act as a preservative in processed foods. Sodium does great things for our bodies as it helps to keep our fluids in check and keeps our muscles moving well. But too much sodium can do more harm than good.
The current recommendation for sodium is no more than 2,300 mg a day. That’s equal to 1 tsp of salt. It probably won’t surprise you to know that most adults eat 2 to 3 times this amount. While 2,300 mg may be thought of as the ‘standard’ recommendation, the advice for middle aged adults and anyone who may be at risk for high blood pressure is to eat no more than 1500 mg of sodium. That’s no more than 2/3 teaspoon of sodium each day for more than half of Americans!
All of us, no matter our health, our age or our family background, should watch our sodium intake. Rather than going full-throttle and limiting all sodium, start slowly. If you limit everything at once, it may be hard to stick with it.
Begin by cutting back on the use of the salt shaker. Instead of shaking salt on your dishes, try using herbs or spices, salt-free herb blends, lemon juice, or vinegar. If you are a salt lover, don’t worry, your taste for salty flavors will begin to dwindle.
Once you have mastered control of the salt shaker, start cooking your foods without adding salt. If a recipe calls for a teaspoon of salt, try using only half a teaspoon or replace salt with herbs and spices.
When buying snack foods, popcorn, crackers, soups, canned fish, canned vegetables and vegetable juices, make sure the label says, “low sodium,” “reduced sodium,” or “no-salt-added.”
Re-think fast food. You would be surprised by how much sodium is in fast food items! At 3 major fast food chains:
- The average cheeseburger has 800 mg sodium
- The average large French fry has 490 mg sodium
- The average 10 piece chicken nuggets has 1000 mg sodium
Do you have any tips on making food tasty without adding salt? We’d love to hear from you!
-------
This blog post was reproduced with the kind permission of the MA Department of Public Health and was originally published on their blog, Commonwealth Conversations.
Further Details on Pistachio Recall
By now, most Americans have heard the news that pistachios tainted with Salmonella have been traced to a wholesale processor (Setton Pistachio) in California. Like the recent peanut butter recall (also related to Salmonella contamination), the recall began with a single processing plant that distributed peanut products nationwide.
While hundreds of Americans were sickened by contaminated peanut products over the last several months, there have so far been no reported cases of pistachio-related Salmonella poisoning in the United States. The Food and Drug Administration is acting swiftly to contain the situation before it expands in a manner similar to the recent peanut butter scare, and there is little doubt that the California legislature may act to tighten food safety regulations.
To read how the Massachusetts Department of Public Health is responding to the situation, please click here. The Amherst Health Department will be monitoring this situation closely, and pertinent updates or recall information will be posted promptly on this blog.
Since the manufacturer in question distributes its products nationwide, it is fairly certain that a significant recall process will begin soon. In the meantime, the FDA is recommending that consumers avoid pistachio products until further details come to light, and their newly-created Pistachio Product Recall Website can be found by clicking here. For those consumers who use Twitter, FDA Recalls can be followed by clicking here.
Please visit these sites often, return to this blog, or call the Health Department at 259-3077 for more information.
While hundreds of Americans were sickened by contaminated peanut products over the last several months, there have so far been no reported cases of pistachio-related Salmonella poisoning in the United States. The Food and Drug Administration is acting swiftly to contain the situation before it expands in a manner similar to the recent peanut butter scare, and there is little doubt that the California legislature may act to tighten food safety regulations.
To read how the Massachusetts Department of Public Health is responding to the situation, please click here. The Amherst Health Department will be monitoring this situation closely, and pertinent updates or recall information will be posted promptly on this blog.
Since the manufacturer in question distributes its products nationwide, it is fairly certain that a significant recall process will begin soon. In the meantime, the FDA is recommending that consumers avoid pistachio products until further details come to light, and their newly-created Pistachio Product Recall Website can be found by clicking here. For those consumers who use Twitter, FDA Recalls can be followed by clicking here.
Please visit these sites often, return to this blog, or call the Health Department at 259-3077 for more information.
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