RSS News Feed from Butte County Public Health - Subscribe to receive offical Butte County Public Health News Releases automatically http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth tues, 21 May 2013 10:40:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – Spring is here and summer is just around the corner. This means more time spent outside swimming, camping, gardening, exercising, and barbecuing. Adults should protect themselves from excessive sun exposure while enjoying these activities and be especially vigilant to protect children because severe sunburns in childhood may greatly increase risk of melanoma in later life. news/13-09-O.pdf mon, 20 May 2013 10:40:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – Butte County Public Health Department has noticed a substantial increase in the number of syphilis cases reported so far this year. In the first quarter of 2013, Butte County Public Health investigated 4 cases of syphilis. news/13-08-O.pdf mon, 6 May 2013 10:40:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – With warmer spring temperatures, mosquitoes are out. Horse owners are urged to vaccinate their horses against West Nile Virus (WNV) now. news/13-07-O.pdf mon, 6 May 2013 10:40:00 PDT CHICO, Calif., MAY 3, 2013 –Three area hospitals – Biggs-Gridley Memorial Hospital, Enloe Medical Center and Feather River Hospital – and the Butte County Public Health Department have partnered to complete a county-wide community health needs assessment to identify and address unmet health care needs. As part of this assessment, the partners have developed an anonymous community-wide survey that they are encouraging Butte County residents to complete by Sunday, June 9. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/NEWS RELEASE - Community Health Needs Assessment FINAL.pdf thurs, 2 May 2013 10:58:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – The Butte County Public Health Department's Tobacco Education Program "Clean Fun in Oroville" campaign resulted in a 25% reduction in tobacco litter at City of Oroville parks this year. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/13-06-O.pdf Wed, 24 Apr 2013 13:27:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, CA – April is sexual assault awareness month, a time for us as a community to evaluate our dedication to build a safer community where no one has to be a victim. Prevention starts with building awareness in the community about sexual violence. The Butte County Sexual Assault Response Team (BC SART) is dedicated to creating a compassionate and streamlined response to sexual assault. The Sexual Assault Response Team's goal is to seek justice, protect the community and work on behalf of victims to restore their dignity, prevent sexual assault from becoming a life-defining event and to counter one of the darkest of human experiences with a response of goodness and caring. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/13-05-O.pdf Tues, 02 Apr 2013 08:05:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, CA – Butte County Public Health Department is celebrating "National Public Health Week", April 1-7, 2013. This year's national theme is "Public Health is ROI (Return on Investment): Save Lives, Save Money." Since 1995, communities from coast to coast have observed National Public Health Week every April, celebrating the work of local public health departments and coming together in support of better health for all. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/13-04-O.pdf Mon, 04 Feb 2013 08:05:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, CA – Having a healthy smile starts with a child's first tooth. February is National Children's Dental Health Month. Join Butte County Public Health Department as we celebrate the month making sure that children have regular dental checkups and are brushing twice a day, ideally after breakfast and before bed at night. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/13-03-O.pdf Wed, 16 Jan 2013 08:24:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, CA – Enloe Medical Center and Butte County Public Health will hold a FREE Walk-In Public Flu Clinic this Friday, Jan. 18 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. (or while supplies last) at the old Hollywood Video building located at 896 East Avenue in Chico (on the corner of East Avenue and Cohasset Road). Flu shots will be available for people ages 4 and older, including pregnant women, and nasal spray vaccine will be available for healthy children and adults between the ages of 2 and 49. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/13-02-O.pdf Mon, 7 Jan 2013 10:42:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, CA – It's not too late to get vaccinated for influenza. The Butte County Public Health Department will be providing another opportunity for people to get a FREE flu vaccine. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/13-01-O.pdf Thurs, 20 Nov 2012 10:05:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, CA – Butte County Public Health has been awarded a one year vehicle occupant protection grant in the amount of $101,700. Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The grant will fund child passenger safety activities towards the prevention of injuries and deaths to Butte County children. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-27-O.pdf Thurs, 15 Nov 2012 10:05:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, CA – Don't let the flu ruin your holiday plans; get vaccinated at the Butte County Public Health Department Clinic, next week. "It's not too late to get your flu vaccine," says Butte County Public Health Department Health Officer, Dr. Lundberg. "Flu season typically peaks in January or February and can last as late as May, we are encouraging people who have not yet been vaccinated to get vaccinated now." http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-26-O.pdf Wed, 24 Oct 2012 15:34:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, CA – Butte County Tobacco Prevention Coalition members, Center for Nutrition and Activity Promotion representatives, and Butte Youth Now Coalition members, as PARTNERS4HEALTH, united to bring the Kids Living Shorter Lives?! parent symposium to the Chico community. The symposium will provide information about the chains of events that lead to obesity, early alcohol and tobacco use, suicide and cyber bullying and how increasing parental involvement helps to protect children. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-25-O.pdf Mon, 22 Oct 2012 08:10:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, CA – This week, Gridley residents will celebrate Healthy Harvest Week as part of the nation-wide Food Day campaign— a movement toward healthier, more affordable, sustainable food and a better food system. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-24-O.pdf Mon, 24 Sep 2012 09:06:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ On Thursday, September 27, 2012 the Butte County Public Health Department is co-sponsoring a low cost rabies vaccination clinic with the North Valley Veterinary Medical Association. The clinic will be held at the Butte County Public Health Department in Chico located at 695 Oleander Ave. between the hours of 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-23-O.pdf Wed, 19 Sep 2012 08:40:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Given that local statistics show 75% of child safety seats are incorrectly installed, Butte County Public Health announced it will conduct a “National Seat Check Saturday” event on September 22 at the Toys R Us parking lot, 1919 East 20th Street, in Chico. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-22-O.pdf Thurs, 17 Sep 2012 15:50:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Butte County Public Health Department urges horse owners to vaccinate their horses as soon as possible against West Nile Virus (WNV). West Nile Virus is a significant health threat to horses. Vaccination against WNV prior to, or during, mosquito season can help protect your horse. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-21-O.pdf Thurs, 09 Sep 2012 13:57:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Butte County Public Health Department officials have received confirmation that a horse residing in Palermo tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). The horse became symptomatic on August 28, and was subsequently euthanized. This is the first WNV positive horse case in Butte County for 2012. Four human cases of West Nile infection have been confirmed so far this year. There have also been numerous birds and mosquito samples that have tested positive for WNV. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-19-O.pdf Wed, 29 Aug 2012 13:57:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Butte County Public Health Department urges the public to take precautions against West Nile Virus (WNV). In recent days, three new cases of WNV have been reported to Butte County Public Health Department. Two of the three cases are neuroinvasive disease, which is the most severe form of WNV infection. These new reports bring this year's total to four identified WNV cases. Cases to date have been in people residing in Chico, Oroville or southern Butte County areas, but the risk is likely high throughout the county. The newest cases have occurred in middle-aged individuals. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-18-O.pdf Tues, 14 Aug 2012 14:57:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ A Chico woman has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV) according to Dr. Mark Lundberg, Butte County Health Officer. This is the first confirmed human case in Butte County for 2012. The older woman developed neuroinvasive disease, the most severe form of WNV. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-17-O.pdf Tues, 7 Aug 2012 13:18:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ With the new school year fast approaching, Butte County Public Health Department would like to make families aware that a unique strain of Hand, Foot and Mouth disease (HFMD), called coxsackie virus 6 (CAV6), is currently circulating in California. HFMD is a common viral illness that usually affects infants and children younger than 5 years old. HFMD may be caused by one of several related viruses. Often the common strains of HFMD cause mild to moderate illness, including a rash. The unique strain of HFMD, CAV6, may cause a more extensive rash and may occur in older children and adults. Outbreaks of HFMD are common in summer and early autumn. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-16-O.pdf Mon, 6 Aug 2012 09:59:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ August is National Immunization Awareness Month. The Butte County Public Health Department would like to remind parents that with school starting soon, now is a great time to check-in with their child's medical provider to make sure that their kids are caught up on required immunizations. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-15-O.pdf Mon, 25 Jun 2012 08:34:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ On Wednesday, June 27, 2012 the Butte County Public Health Department is co-sponsoring a low cost rabies vaccination clinic with the North Valley Veterinary Medical Association. The clinic will be held at the Butte County Animal Control Office located at 202 Mira Loma Drive in Oroville between the hours of 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-14-O.pdf Wed, 13 Jun 2012 08:45:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ CalFresh recipients in Butte County can now use their benefits to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, and seedlings at every farmers market in the county. The federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is called "CalFresh" in California and it enables food insecure households to buy fresh, healthy food to feed themselves and their families. Using CalFresh at farmers markets is a great way to buy healthy food and support the local economy. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-13-O.pdf Tue, 05 Jun 2012 08:22:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ The sun is out and the days are warmer. This means more time spent outside swimming, camping, gardening, exercising, and barbecuing. Adults should protect themselves from excessive sun exposure while enjoying these activities and be especially vigilant to protect children because severe sunburns in childhood may greatly increase risk of melanoma in later life. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-12-O.pdf Fri, 06 Apr 2012 10:46:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Spring is officially here. What better time to adopt a new, furry friend to bask with you in the sunshine? Whether it's long walks, a jog through the park or a trip to the ocean, a new canine friend might be just the ticket. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-11-O.pdf Thurs, 05 Apr 2012 10:46:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ On-the-spot testing for HIV has gotten much easier: The Butte County Public Health Department Clinics are now using the oral HIV test that gives results in 20 minutes. Until now, rapid HIV testing through the clinics has required pricking a person's finger to test a spot of blood. Now, the person being tested for HIV places an absorbent pad above the teeth and against the outer gum. The person then gently swabs their outer gums. In as little as 20 minutes, the oral HIV test will indicate if HIV antibodies are present. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-10-O.pdf Wed, 04 Apr 2012 10:46:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Fluoride is held in high regard by the dental community as an important mineral that strengthens tooth enamel, thereby helping to prevent tooth decay. Fluoride varnish is a thin coating of fluoride that is applied to the tooth surface. Fluoride varnish can retard, arrest, and reverse the process of cavity formation. Unfortunately, we see cavity formation that is well advanced by the age of three. Tooth decay is the most common disease of childhood (5 times more common than asthma, 7 times more common than seasonal allergies). Not only does tooth decay cause pain and infection, but it can also interfere with learning by distracting a child's focus, or causing frequent absences from school. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-09-O.pdf Tues, 03 Apr 2012 10:46:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ As part of National Public Health Week, Butte County Public Health will provide health information, give-a-ways, health screenings, and free hepatitis C testing at the United Methodist Church during the free lunch program on Wednesday, April 4, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Public Health Week runs from April 2 – 8, with a different theme each day. The theme for Wednesday is communicable disease prevention. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-08-O.pdf Mon, 02 Apr 2012 08:20:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Northern Valley Catholic Social Services (NVCSS) will be helping clients get on track to quitting smoking by asking, advising and referring their clients to cessation services as an active part of their client care. NVCSS case managers provide free and voluntary case management services to pregnant and parenting teens, including teen fathers, to help them get their children off to a healthy start and now they will expand those services to address smoking. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-07-O.pdf Mon, 02 Apr 2012 08:18:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ April 2nd through April 8th is National Public Health Week (NPHW). Along with communities around the nation Butte County Public Health Department will be celebrating National Public Health Week with health promotion and educational activities and events planned daily. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-06-O.pdf Thurs, 29 Mar 2012 13:21:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Treating latent tuberculosis normally requires nine months of daily pill-taking, but a recent study showed that a far shorter course of medication, with once-a-week drugs, works just as well. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has now recommended the shorter course of treatment for people with latent TB infection. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-05-O.pdf wed, 15 Feb 2012 09:34:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Butte County residents will benefit two ways from an upcoming National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician Training. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-04-O.pdf mon, 13 Feb 2012 14:53:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ The Butte County Public Health Department is promoting Preteen Vaccine Week, February 12-18, 2012 as a statewide effort to remind families of preteens about recommended and required immunizations for 11 and 12-year olds. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-03-O.pdf mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:09:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Having a healthy smile starts with a child's first tooth. February is National Children's Dental Health Month - a good time to make sure children have regular dental checkups and are brushing twice a day, usually after breakfast and before bed at night. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-02-O.pdf thurs, 05 Jan 2012 17:26:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Good health begins by what we do at home, at school, in our workplaces, our neighborhoods and in our communities. Most people know that eating healthy foods, getting plenty of sleep, and staying active are important to staying healthy. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-32-O.pdf Wed, 28 Dec 2011 09:53:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Winter is the peak time of year for norovirus, an illness that is also referred to as the “winter vomiting bug” or “stomach flu”. Butte County Public Health Department has received several reports of increased incidence of gastrointestinal illness in local hospitals, clinics, and long term care facilities. One outbreak in a skilled nursing facility has now been confirmed as norovirus. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/12-01-O.pdf Wed, 07 Dec 2011 15:45:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Christmas is coming with all of its hue… Red and green and even some blue. With the holiday excitement and so much to do, Don't forget your shot to protect against flu! http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-31-O.pdf Tues, 15 Nov 2011 17:00:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ The Butte County Public Health Department's Tobacco Education Program's Clean Fun in Oroville: Action for Tobacco Litter-Free Parks campaign goes to cyberspace. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-30-O.pdf Wed, 09 Nov 2011 8:27:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Butte County Public Health Department (BCPH) has been awarded a new traffic safety grant for a year-long program aimed at preventing deaths and injuries on our roadways. The"Everyone Rides Safe" occupant protection grant was awarded by the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and will aid in Butte County Public Health's ongoing effort to improve the safety of children traveling in vehicles. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-29-O.pdf Wed, 19 Oct 2011 9:27:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Butte County Public Health Department and Butte County Office of Emergency Management will be conducting an Animal Disaster Shelter Drill on October 18th in Oroville. The purpose of the drill is to exercise emergency response plans, policies and procedures as they pertain to animal sheltering. The drill will also allow county planners the opportunity to test the functionality and capabilities of a new shelter site on Del Oro Avenue for the first time. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-28-O.pdf Tues, 27 Sep 2011 8:30:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – Chico WIC is pleased to announce their move and re-opening Thursday, September 29, 2011 at their new location 2491 Carmichael Drive, Suite 400, Chico. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-27-O.pdf Thurs, 22 Sep 2011 15:05:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – Butte County Public Health Department's Traveling Safely Through Life Program urges parents and caregivers to have their children's car seats checked on National Seat Check on Saturday, September 24, 2011. As part of Child Passenger Safety Week, September 18-24, certified child passenger safety technicians will be available to inspect car seats and provide free hands-on advice from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM at the Toys R Us Parking lot in Chico. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-26-O.pdf Mon, 19 Sep 2011 15:14:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ On September 28, the Butte County Public Health Department Animal Control is participating in a low-cost Rabies Vaccination Clinics co-sponsored by the North Valley Veterinary Medical Association, City of Chico Animal Control and the Butte Humane Society. The goal of the clinics is to vaccinate more pets in Butte County and raise awareness about the importance of rabies prevention and control. The rabies clinic will coincide with World Rabies Day, a global rabies awareness and prevention campaign. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-25-O.pdf Mon, 12 Sep 2011 15:00:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – The Butte County Public Health Department continues to address the issue of childhood obesity in our community with another article to inform and educate the public regarding obesity. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-24-O.pdf Wed, 03 Aug 2011 07:56:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – For the past year, Butte County Public Health has been providing education and free hepatitis C (HCV) test kits to residents of drug treatment and homeless facilities. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-22-O.pdf Fri, 15 Jul 2011 14:51:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ The Butte County Public Health Department is offering parents another opportunity to get their child's Tdap booster shot before school starts next fall. As you may have heard, new California law (AB 354) requires all students entering 7th through 12th grades in the 2011-2012 school year to show proof of immunization with a pertussis vaccine booster called Tdap. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-21-O.pdf Tues, 05 Jul 2011 08:54:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – Summertime means more time spent in the sun swimming, camping, gardening, exercising, and barbecuing. During these activities, adults need to protect themselves from excessive sun exposure and they need to be especially vigilant to protect children from sunburn. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-20-O.pdf Fri, 01 Jul 2011 15:28:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ The Fourth of July is a fun filled weekend of fireworks, food and outdoor activities. Although we might find the sights and sounds of fireworks to be exhilarating, our pets in almost all cases do not feel the same. Pets are often startled and deeply distressed by the loud noises and bright lights of our beloved fireworks displays. It is not uncommon for them to do anything to "escape" the situation and they often end up lost, injured or in shelters. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-19-O.pdf Tues, 21 Jun 2011 17:02:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – A planned power outage affecting portions of Magalia, Stirling City, Forest Ranch and Butte Meadows will take place on Wednesday, June 22, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. With continued high temperatures forecasted throughout the county, the Butte County Public Health Department urges residents to remember precautions to prevent serious health conditions related to heat. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-18-O.pdf Tues, 14 Jun 2011 09:02:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – Butte County Public Health Department is making an effort to reduce obesity rates in the community. "There are some startling statistics with regard to childhood obesity in Butte County" according to Mark Lundberg, MD, Butte County Health Officer. Creating awareness of this significant health issue is the first step health department staff will take, followed by educating the public about how to reduce and prevent obesity among Butte County's children. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-17-O.pdf Fri, 06 Jun 2011 16:39:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – Beginning July 1, 2011, all students entering grades 7-12 must provide proof of having immunization against whooping cough (Tdap) before starting school. In light ofCalifornia's recent whooping cough (also known as pertussis) epidemic, there is no reason to wait for the new school year. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-16-O.pdf Wed, 18 May 2011 08:39:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – A recent disease outbreak of Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy (EHV-1) has been traced to horses who attended the National Cutting Horse Associations' Western National Championships in Odgen, Utah on April 30 – May 8, 2011. California horses who participated in this event may have been exposed to this EHV-1 virus. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-15-O.pdf Thur, 12 May 2011 09:27:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – Some 4,000 people in Butte County may be infected with the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and most of them don't know it. In recognition of May as National Viral Hepatitis Awareness Month, the Butte County Hepatitis C Task Force will offer free HCV testing at a fun family-friendly event taking place in Chico on Friday, May 13th from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Chico Downtown Plaza Park. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-14-O.pdf Wed, 11 May 2011 08:54:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ On Wednesday, May 18, 2011 the Butte County Public Health Department is co-sponsoring a low cost rabies vaccination clinic with the North Valley Veterinary Medical Association. The clinic will be held at the Butte County Animal Control Office located at 202 Mira Loma Drive in Oroville between the hours of 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-13-O.pdf Fri, 22 Apr 2011 08:53:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – The Butte County Public Health Department's Tobacco Education Program launches the "Clean Fun in Oroville" campaign, which is aimed at reducing tobacco litter from parks in the City of Oroville. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-12-O.pdf Mon, 18 Apr 2011 15:40:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – With just over a month of the school year left… the deadline for getting your child’s Tdap booster before next school year is fast approaching! The Butte County Public Health Department is providing after hours Tdap clinics as another opportunity to get your child vaccinated. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-11-O.pdf Mon, 10 Apr 2011 10:25:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – The sun is shining and families are heading to the streets with their bikes! Don’t forget your helmet! Each year, more than 20,000 bicyclists are admitted to hospitals and those hospitalized with head injuries are 20 times as likely to die. A bicycle helmet can reduce the risk of brain and head injuries by more than 85%. California law states anyone under the age of 18 must wear a certified bicycle helmet when bicycling, skateboarding, in-line or roller skating, or using a non-motorized scooter. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-10-O.pdf Fri, 08 Apr 2011 09:16:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – The Butte County Public Health Department (BCPHD) is proud to be participating in National Public Health Week. As part of a nationwide effort to increase community safety; the Public Health Emergency Response program is encouraging Butte County residents to take action by developing emergency plans and assembling complete emergency supply kits. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-09-O.pdf Fri, 08 Apr 2011 09:06:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – In celebration of Public Health Week April 4-11, 2011, parents are encouraged to contact a child safety seat fitting inspection station for assistance on how to properly install a child safety seat. These fitting stations are free and located throughout Butte County. The child safety seat checks are conducted by nationally certified child passenger safety technicians and are done by appointment. Butte County Public Health in collaboration with partner agencies offers this opportunity to parents to ensure children are transported as safely as possible. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-08-O.pdf Wed, 06 Apr 2011 08:14:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – Soon the temperature will be rising, and your family will be heading to a swimming pool to cool off. The Butte County Public Health Department wants your family to be safe whether you go to a public pool or enjoy the pool in your own back yard. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-07-O.pdf Mon, 06 Apr 2011 08:14:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – Injuries from animal bites are preventable”, said Linda Haller, Program Manager for Butte County Public Health’s Animal Control Division. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-06-O.pdf Mon, 04 Apr 2011 09:36:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – In recognition of National Public Health Week, April 4-11, the Butte County Public Health Department invites Butte County citizens to join forces in supporting this year's theme of, "Safety is NO Accident: Live Injury-Free." http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-05-O.pdf Tues, 01 Mar 2011 11:04:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – New California Law (AB 354) requires all 7th -12th grade children to be immunized against pertussis upon entry into school. Beginning next school year all children will need to show proof of receiving a Tdap booster shot before starting the 2011-2012 school year. In order to avoid the last minute rush next fall, Butte County Public Health Department is advising parents get their children vaccinated now! http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-04-O.pdf Tues, 08 Feb 2011 10:07:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – Having a healthy smile starts with a child's first tooth. February is National Children's Dental Health Month - a good time to make sure children have regular dental checkups and are brushing twice a day, usually after breakfast and before bed at night. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-03-O.pdf Tues, 08 Feb 2011 10:04:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – The Butte County Public Health Department has released a public notice of surface water and potential groundwater contamination in Honey Run Creek, Town of Paradise, as required by the Safe Drinking Water and Enforcement Act of 1986 (Prop 65). http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-02-O.pdf Thurs, 03 Feb 2011 08:57:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – The Butte County Public Health Department (BCPHD) has been selected to participate in a cutting-edge, national project that will measure disaster readiness and response at the local health department level. The Public Health System Indicators Project is funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and is designed to test newly developed tools for measuring a health department’s response to emergencies and pandemics. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/11-01-O.pdf Mon, 08 Nov 2010 17:20:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – In a continuing effort to save lives and prevent injuries on our county roadways, Butte County Public Health was awarded a $124,334 grant by the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS). This grant supports the department’s efforts to combat misuse or nonuse of child safety seats/booster seats and to increase teens’ knowledge on their driving risks. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/10-20-O.pdf Fri, 09 Oct 2010 14:29:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – Butte County Public Health Department, in cooperation with several Butte County School Districts, will be providing FREE flu and pertussis (whooping cough) vaccinations available for students, families, school staff and the public as follows: http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/10-19-O.pdf Mon, 27 Sep 2010 14:20:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – Butte County Public Health Department, in partnership with Chico Unified School District, will be providing FREE flu and pertussis (whooping cough) vaccinations on September 30, 2010, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (or while supplies last) at Pleasant Valley High School Valhalla Hall, located at 1475 East Ave in Chico. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/10-18-O.pdf Thurs, 23 Sep 2010 09:00:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – “Spread the Word, Not the Virus”, a new program at Butte County Public Health (BCPH), aims to identify Hepatitis C (HCV) infections in high-risk individuals throughout Butte County, and make referrals for treatment when appropriate. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/10-17-O.pdf Wed, 22 Sep 2010 08:55:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ On September 28, the Butte County Public Health Department is participating in the first of two low-cost Rabies Vaccination Clinics co-sponsored by the North Valley Veterinary Medical Association. The goal of the clinics is to vaccinate more pets in Butte County and raise awareness about the importance of rabies prevention and control. The rabies clinic will coincide with World Rabies Day, a global rabies awareness and prevention campaign. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/10-16-O.pdf Tues, 21 Sep 2010 08:55:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – Butte County Public Health’s Kids In Safe Seats program in collaboration with other countywide organizations is urging parents and caregivers to make sure their child safety seats are properly installed. ”National Seat Check Saturday” is being celebrated Saturday, September 25 as part of Child Passenger Safety Week (September 19-25, 2010). Certified technicians will be available to provide free hands-on child safety seat inspections and advice from 10:00 am -1:00 pm at the Toys R Us Parking lot in Chico. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/10-15-O.pdf Mon, 17 Sep 2010 08:38:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – Babies, children, and adolescents need regular health check-ups and immunizations to stay healthy. Since many medical conditions can be corrected if diagnosed in the early stages, early intervention may reduce the severity of health problems. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/10-14-O.pdf Wed, 08 Sep 2010 16:00:00 PDT Butte County, along with other California counties, is experiencing a peak year for pertussis (whooping cough). On average, 6 cases of pertussis are reported each year in Butte County. To date in 2010, 19 cases of pertussis have been reported, with no fatalities. At the current rate, California may have more cases in 2010 than any year since 1958. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/10-13-O.pdf Mon, 30 Aug 2010 16:30:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – Butte County Public Health Department will be offering FREE pertussis vaccinations for adults and children age 11 years and older during the month of September. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/10-12-O.pdf Wed, 18 Aug 2010 11:41:00 PDT A Chico woman has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV) according to Dr. Mark Lundberg, Butte County Health Officer. This is the first confirmed human case in Butte County for 2010. The elderly woman was hospitalized with neuroinvasive disease, the most severe form of WNV. At this time she is stable. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/10-11-O.pdf Thu, 03 Jun 2010 09:00:00 PDT Butte County Public Health Department continues to investigate the recent increase in salmonella cases reported to its offices. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/10-10-O.pdf Mon, 01 Jun 2010 08:00:00 PDT Summer time means more time spent outside swimming, camping, gardening, exercising, and barbecuing. Adults need to protect themselves from excessive sun exposure and they need to be especially vigilant to protect children from sunburn http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/10-09-O.pdf Fri, 26 May 2010 07:00:00 PDT Butte County Public Health Department has discovered additional Salmonella cases in an ongoing investigation which was prompted by numerous case reports of the food borne illness http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/10-08-O.pdf Fri, 21 May 2010 07:00:00 PDT Butte County Public Health Department has recently seen an increase in the number of reported Salmonella cases. The cause of the increase has yet to be determined, and an ongoing investigation is taking place http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/10-07-O.pdf Mon, 17 May 2010 11:00:00 PDT During the month of May, public health advocates are recognizing the 15th anniversary of National Hepatitis Awareness Month and, on May 19, World Hepatitis Day http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/10-06-O.pdf Wed, 28 Apr 2010 10:16:00 PDT April 24 through May 1st marks “National Infant Immunization Week”, an annual observance highlighting the importance of protecting infants and toddlers from vaccine-preventable diseases. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/10-05-O.pdf Fri, 23 Apr 2010 10:30:00 PDT Parents of young children are invited to participate in a Butte County Public Health Department Car Seat Check up event. This event is an opportunity for parents to ensure their child’s safety seat is correctly fitted and installed. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/10-04-C.pdf Thurs, 21 Jan 2010 14:40:00 PDT There are no longer any restrictions on who can receive H1N1 vaccine and everyone is encouraged to get vaccinated. Local hospitals are partnering with the Public Health Department to provide mass vaccination clinics for the public. A clinic will be held at Feather River Health Center at 5125 Skyway in Paradise on Sunday, January 24, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm (or as supplies last). There will be vaccine available for both adults and children. Please do not arrive before 10:30. For more information call 876-7283 http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/10-03-O.pdf Wed, 20 Jan 2010 14:40:00 PDT The Butte County Public Health Department urges the public to consider personal safety measures with regard to food and private wells in the event of severe weather which may cause power outages and flooding. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/10-02-O.pdf Mon, 11 Jan 2010 14:20:00 PDT If you have not yet received a pandemic H1N1 flu vaccination there is good news. There is enough vaccine available now that anyone, not just people in high risk groups, can be vaccinated http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/10-01-O.pdf Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:18:00 PDT Many local obstetricians recently received allocations of H1N1 (swine) flu vaccine, and pregnant women should not delay in getting it, according to Butte County Public Health Department. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-45-O.pdf Thurs, 19 Nov 2009 15:29:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Pandemic H1N1 flu (swine flu) has claimed the life of a Butte County man who was over 65 years old and had multiple underlying health conditions, Butte County Health Officer Mark Lundberg announced today. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-44-O.pdf Mon, 16 Nov 2009 09:20:00 PDT Children in Chico who have not yet received the pandemic H1N1 vaccine will have two more opportunities to do so this week. School-based vaccine clinics will be held on Tuesday Nov. 17th from 2:45 to 6:45 at Marsh Junior High School and on Thursday Nov. 19th from 3:30 to 7:30 at Pleasant Valley High School. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-43-O.pdf Mon, 06 Oct 2009 09:20:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ You can save the day for a homeless dog – an find a faithful companion who will be at your side for all of life’s adventures – by adopting a dog from your local shelters during American Humane’s Adopt-A-Dog Month in October. It’s the perfect time to visit the shelter, meet potential sidekicks and discover how much fun and happiness a dog can add to your life. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-42-O.pdf Thurs, 01 Oct 2009 17:10:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Many Butte County pediatricians and children’s health clinics will soon receive their first allocations of pandemic H1N1 vaccine, according to Butte County Public Health Department. Approximately 2,300 doses of Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine (LAIV), a nasal spray vaccine, have been allocated to Butte County at this time. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-41-O.pdf Thurs, 24 Sep 2009 09:56:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ On September 28, the Butte County Public Health Department is hosting a Rabies Vaccination Clinic co-sponsored by the North Valley Veterinary Medical Association. The goal of the clinic is to vaccinate more pets in Butte County and raise awareness about the importance of rabies prevention and control. The rabies clinic will coincide with World Rabies Day, a global rabies awareness and prevention campaign. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-40-O.pdf Wed, 23 Sep 2009 14:20:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Starting October 1st 2009, the first comprehensive revision since 1980 to the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program food packages (checks for food) will be implemented by California WIC agencies. The newly expanded food packages will closely align WIC’s food choices with current American Academy of Pediatrics feeding practice guidelines, and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. To facilitate a smooth transition, all WIC offices in California, including Butte County WIC, will be closed on September 29 and 30, as staff receive training and make necessary preparations. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-39-O.pdf Mon, 21 Sep 2009 9:19:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ The Butte County Public Health Department has mobilized a team of Public Health professionals to educate students attending Butte County schools on how to reduce the risk of influenza. “The Bug Stops Here” campaign is designed to teach students about the importance of proper hand washing and cough etiquette. Students will also be urged to stay home if they are sick as well as to roll up their sleeves and get vaccinated. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-38-C.pdf Tues, 15 Sep 2009 15:55:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, California – Butte County Public Health Department officials are reminding county residents that seasonal flu vaccine is available now, and people should get the vaccine early this year. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-37-O.pdf Tues, 08 Sep 2009 13:27:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Motor vehicles are the leading cause of death for children age 3 to 6 and 8 to 14 according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Nationally, in 2007, 6,532 passenger vehicle occupants 14 and younger were involved in fatal crashes. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-36-O.pdf Tues, 08 Sep 2009 10:39:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ The Butte County Public Health Department has released a public notice of environmental contamination for specific locations at the Gridley High School, as required by the Safe Drinking Water and Enforcement Act of 1986 (Prop 65). An investigation by California Division of Occupational Safety and Health and the Butte County District Attorney has determined that a contractor failed to employ proper work practices during removal of lead-containing paint before painting covers over walkways at the school. Subsequent investigation by the Butte County District Attorney’s Office and the Environmental Health Division of the Butte County Public Health Department confirmed the presence of elevated levels of lead in soil at lawn areas immediately adjacent to the repainted walkway covers. This contamination is likely the result of residual paint chips and paint dust from the painting project. Environmental Health staff observed that the lawn areas where samples were taken are used only minimally by students, due to barricades along the adjacent walkways. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-35-O.pdf Thurs, 27 Aug 2009 16:32:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ A Chico man has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV) according to Dr. Mark Lundberg, Butte County Public Health Officer. This is the first confirmed human case in Butte County for 2009. The middle-aged man experienced West Nile Fever, the milder form of the disease, and is recuperating. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-34-O.pdf Thurs, 27 Aug 2009 14:00:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. - Butte County Public Health is proud to promote Emergency Preparedness Month in September of 2009. To spread the message and inform employees/members of the community about preparedness, the Public Health Department is supporting the Seven Day Challenge. This seven day mock disaster allows participants the chance to test their level of preparedness in a simulated emergency environment. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-33-O.pdf Thurs, 25 Aug 2009 09:20:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. - On August 29 at the Beyond the Walls multicultural event in Oroville, dental professionals will be volunteering their time to conduct free dental screenings that meet the AB1433 requirement for school entry. The event will take place at Martin Luther King Jr. Park from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Screenings are available from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-32-O.pdf Thurs, 24 Aug 2009 11:20:00 PDT West Nile virus (WNV) activity has increased during the month of August in Butte County. The Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District (District) has detected positive WNV in (7) dead birds, (3) mosquito pools, and (1) sentinel chicken to date. Three of the seven positive birds are from the Chico and surrounding area and the other four are from the Oroville and south Oroville areas. Two of the positive mosquito pools are from Palermo and one from Richvale. The positive sentinel chicken is from Palermo. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/mv.pdf Thurs, 24 Aug 2009 10:42:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ On Saturday, August 29, the public is invited to the “Beyond the Walls” Multicultural Health Fair at Martin Luther King Jr. Park located at 2921 B Street in Oroville. The event, which runs from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, is sponsored by Beyond the Walls Ministry, the Hmong Cultural Center of Butte County, the Butte County Public Health Department and the California Family Health Council. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-31-O.pdf Thurs, 02 Jul 2009 16:42:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Fireworks displays will illuminate the skies this weekend during Fourth of July celebrations. As we enjoy these holiday festivities, it’s important for us to remember that this can be a very traumatic time for our pets. Loud noises can frighten animals causing them to panic, become disoriented, run away from home and all too often be hit by cars. In fact, animal shelters across the country report an increased number of lost animal companions after fireworks displays, and Butte County is no exception. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-30-O.pdf Wed, 01 Jul 2009 16:42:00 PDT BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Butte County Public Health (BCPH) continues to detect infections of the novel influenza A (H1N1) virus. Laboratory specimens are being sent from a sample of the patients who present to hospitals and clinics with influenza like illness (ILI). Eight more cases of novel H1N1 influenza have been reported to Butte County Public Health Department, bringing the total number of cases to thirteen. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-29-O.pdf Thu, 25 Jun 2009 16:42:00 PDT Butte County Public Health Department (BCPHD) continues to monitor and test for the novel influenza A (H1N1) virus. Statewide and locally, the number of cases is steadily increasing. As of 6/25/09, 68 Butte County residents have been tested for novel H1N1 infection. Five persons have tested positive; results are pending on 17 patients. The five confirmed cases include two middle-aged persons, two young adults, and one child. Four were outpatients, and one was hospitalized with underlying conditions. Three have recovered and two are still recovering http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-27-O.pdf Wed, 24 Jun 2009 08:25:00 PDT Butte County Public Health Department will be providing free rapid HIV Antibody testing in the field in commemoration of National HIV Testing day on June 27th. Testing will be available at the Oroville Rescue Mission from 9am to 11:30am on June 24th and at the Jesus Center from 1pm to 4pm on June 25th http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-26-O.pdf Fri, 19 Jun 2009 09:56:00 PDT To ensure children are properly restrained when riding in a vehicle, Butte County Public Health Department’s (BCPHD) ‘Traveling Safely Through Life Campaign’ is holding a free safety seat and booster seat checkup http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-25-O.pdf Thu, 11 Jun 2009 14:56:00 PDT Butte County Animal Control is celebrating the American Humane Association’s national Adopt-A-Cat Month this June. It’s the perfect time to promote cat adoptions because the spring and summer months typically bring a surge of cats to the nation’s shelters http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-24-O.pdf Tue, 09 Jun 2009 15:11:00 PDT Butte County Public Health Department (BCPHD) continues to monitor and test for the Novel H1N1 (Swine) influenza virus. BCPHD has sent 49 specimens to the state lab for testing. Of those, two have been confirmed as Novel H1N1 (Swine) influenza virus and 40 have tested negative for the virus. Six samples are still pending and one sample was insufficient for testing. The two confirmed cases were outpatient cases and both have recovered http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-23-O.pdf Mon, 01 Jun 2009 09:31:00 PDT Join us for a county-wide campaign to encourage Butte County residents to clean out their medicine cabinets and to drop off their prescription drugs to prevent their children and/or grandchildren from having access to these drugs. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-22-O.pdf Tue, 26 May 2009 08:29:00 PDT They’re baaack. Mosquitoes, that is. Warm weather and standing water provide the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes, and Butte County Public Health Department is urging the public to prevent mosquito breeding and prepare for the West Nile Virus (WNV) season. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-21-O.pdf Tue, 19 May 2009 17:00:00 PDT Butte County Public Health Department (BCPHD) has been monitoring and testing for the Novel H1N1 (Swine Flu) influenza virus. A recent patient in all likelihood will become Butte County’s first identified case of the Novel H1N1 influenza virus. Further testing is being done at the State lab to confirm the infection. This probable case is an adult male who was seen in the emergency room. He had symptoms of fever, cough, and a sore throat. His symptoms improved rapidly and he has almost completely recovered. There is no apparent spread of the infection to his immediate family or others. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-20-O.pdf Tue, 05 May 2009 17:02:00 PDT The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) today released new recommendations regarding school and childcare dismissal in response to infections of the novel H1N1 (swine) outbreak. Over the past week as more information has been collected about the cases nationally and within California, the CDPH has a clearer picture of the disease caused by this new flu virus. Most cases in the U.S. have not been severe and the illness appears to resemble seasonal influenza http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-19-O.pdf Mon, 04 May 2009 15:37:00 PDT Butte County Public Health Department reports there are still no confirmed cases of the novel H1N1 flu in Butte County. Thirteen specimens have been sent to the state laboratory for testing, and 8 have come back negative. The results of the other 5 tests are still pending http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-18-O.pdf Mon, 04 May 2009 08:00:00 PDT Although the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) reports an increase in the number of statewide swine flu cases (17 confirmed and 55 probable), most of the hundreds of specimens tested by the state lab have proved to be the regular seasonal flu. “This report is further confirmation that seasonal flu is still circulating in the state along with swine flu,” states Mark Lundberg, M.D. Health Officer at Butte County Public Health. In addition, CDPH reports that the majority of the cases have been mild with only 3 hospitalizations amongst the 72 confirmed and probable. To date, Butte County has no probable or confirmed cases of swine flu, however, the Public Health Lab continues to forward specimens to the state lab for further testing. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-17-O.pdf Thu, 30 Apr 2009 14:53:00 PDT Although the World Health Organization (WHO) raised the pandemic alert level yesterday, there are still no suspected cases of swine flu in Butte County. As of this morning, there are 109 confirmed cases throughout the nation, fourteen of them in California residents, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-16-O.pdf Wed, 29 Apr 2009 17:21:00 PDT Swine flu numbers continue to rise in the U.S., but there are still no suspected cases of swine flu in Butte County. The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised the pandemic alert to Level 5, and that should increase our preparations, but not cause alarm, according to Butte County Public Health Department. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-15-O.pdf Wed, 29 Apr 2009 12:18:00 PDT Swine flu numbers continue to rise in California and the nation. As of this morning, there have been ninety-one confirmed cases of swine flu nation-wide, fourteen of them in California residents, according to the Centers for Disease Control. To date there are no suspected cases of swine flu in Butte County. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-14-O.pdf Tue, 28 Apr 2009 17:00:00 PDT Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today declared a state of emergency in California due to the Swine Flu outbreak http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-13-O.pdf Mon, 27 Apr 2009 11:56:00 PDT The Butte County Public Health Department has mobilized to confront the Swine Influenza (swine flu) outbreak. To date there are no suspected cases of swine flu in Butte County. The Health Department is closely monitoring for local activity and is in communication with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and local hospitals and health care providers to disseminate correct testing and treatment information http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-12-O.pdf Mon, 27 Apr 2009 08:30:00 PDT Butte County Public Health’s Annual Immunization Update will be held on Tuesday April 28, from 8:00 AM to 12:15 PM, at the Southside Community Center located at 2959 Lower Wyandotte in Oroville. This seminar will provide updated vaccination information for doctors, nurses and other healthcare providers. This year the event coincides with National Infant Immunization Week, an annual observance highlighting the importance of protecting infants and toddlers from vaccine-preventable diseases. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-11-O.pdf Apr 20 – 26 marks West Nile Virus (WNV) and Mosquito and Vector Control Awareness Week and with warmer spring temperatures, mosquitoes are out. Horse owners are urged to vaccinate their horses against WNV now http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-10-C.pdf The Butte County Public Health Department - Tobacco Education Program identifies progress with a Smoke-Free Outdoor Dining campaign. In an effort to further reduce Butte county residents from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke, the Tobacco Education Program are visiting restaurants and coffee shop establishments in the Chico and Oroville areas that offer outdoor dining. The campaign’s focus is to work with local restaurant and coffee shop operators, providing education on the dangers of secondhand smoke along with data that supports reasons to adopt a voluntary smoke-free outdoor dining policy. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-09-C.pdf As part of Public Health Week (April 6-10, 2009) Butte County Public Health and Butte County Public Works are sponsoring a free collection event for home-generated medical sharps. On Wednesday, April 8th, from 10 am to 2 pm, the public will be able to dispose of home-generated used medical sharps, as well as household quantities of batteries, fluorescent tubes and compact fluorescent bulbs at the Paradise Ridge Senior Center, which is located at 877 Nunneley Road in Paradise. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-08-C.pdf Tuberculosis (TB) is still a problem in the United States and Butte County Public Health is doing something about it. Because homeless people are at higher risk for TB, the Health Department has teamed up with the Torres Shelter in Chico to test residents for this age-old disease http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-07-O.pdf Butte County Public Health Department is kicking off a campaign during Public Health Week (April 6 –10) to raise awareness about the important role public health plays in protecting the health of the community. The campaign utilizes stickers with the slogan “This is Public Health” placed in strategic locations around Butte County to build awareness of the many ways in which public health impacts our well being. Pictures of the sticker campaign are being uploaded to the Public Health website. In addition, Public Health is holding several free public events to provide health-related services to Butte County residents http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-06-O.pdf To help Butte County children survive car crashes, the Butte County Public Health Department’s “Traveling Safely Through Life” Program is holding a free car child safety seat and booster seat check up. Certified child passenger safety technicians will be on hand to assist parents on how to properly install their child’s safety seat. This free event will take place March 20, 2009 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Oroville Gold Town Plaza parking lot, 2470 Oro Dam Boulevard next to La Comida Restaurant. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-05-O.pdf Influenza (flu) cases are on the rise in Butte County. For the week ending February 28th, hospital and outpatient facilities participating in Butte County’s influenza surveillance program reported patients testing positive for influenza http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-04-O.pdf Butte County residents think that smoking in the movies influences young people to smoke and that smoking by actors should be prohibited in movies marketed to children, teen and families, according to a phone survey funded by the Butte County Public Health Department’s Tobacco Education Program (TEP). http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/09-01-O.pdf Butte County residents are turned off by secondhand smoke exposure at restaurant and coffee shop’s outdoor dining areas, according to a phone survey funded by the Butte County Public Health Department’s Tobacco Education Program (TEP). Forty-five percent of respondents said it discouraged them to visit a restaurant or coffee shop where they could be exposed to secondhand smoke in an outdoor dining area. About two-thirds of survey respondents would favor adoption of a voluntary policy by owners that designates these outdoor dining areas as smokefree http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-37-O.pdf The National Weather Service has issued an advisory calling for “COLDER AND UNSETTLED WEATHER” conditions beginning Friday December 12, and lasting well into next week. Snow levels are expected to drop to the 1,000 foot elevation by Saturday evening and remain at or near this level for several days. Heavy snow accumulations are possible over in the mountains. Wind gusts are also expected Saturday evening possibly reaching 35 MPH. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-36-O.pdf The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced the week of December 8-14, 2008, as National Influenza Vaccination Week. This event is designed to highlight the importance of getting an influenza shot. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-35-O.pdf Two local businesses are being recognized this week for excellence in preventing childhood drowning. Safe Kids Butte County and Butte County Public Health Department are joining Safe Kids California to recognize In Motion Fitness and North Valley Swim School for their innovative efforts to reduce drowning for young children utilizing their aquatic center. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-34-O.pdf Butte County Public Health Department (BCPHD) will extend outreach and educational efforts to the community on December 1 in honor of the 20th anniversary of World AIDS Day. This is a day when individuals and organizations from around the world come together to bring attention to the global AIDS epidemic. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-33-O.pdf Butte County Public Health Department is set to commence the “Traveling Safely Through Life Program”, a multifaceted two year vehicle occupant protection program aimed at preventing deaths and injuries on our roadways. This program targets parents and children at two developmentally “teachable” moments identified by data and national research, ages 5-9 and 14-16, in which children face increased risk of injury and death from motor vehicle crashes. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-32-C.pdf Fall is here and the weather is cooler. Children are back in school and illness can be just around the corner. There are many things that parents and care givers can do to keep children healthy. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, cold weather does not cause colds or flu. But the viruses that cause colds and flu tend to be more common in the winter, when children are in school and are in closer contact with each other. Frequent hand washing and teaching your child to sneeze or cough into the bend of his/her elbow may help reduce the spread of colds and flu. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-31-O.pdf On October 15 Butte County Public Health Department (BCPHD) will extend outreach and educational efforts to the community in honor of National Latino AIDS Awareness Day (NLAAD), which encourages Latinos across the U.S. to “Take the Test, Take Control.” On October 15 BCPHD and Chico State will offer free HIV testing to all students and staff from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the Chico State campus between Glenn and Siskiyou Halls using the Mobile Medical Unit (MMU). http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-28-O.pdf An E. coli 0157:H7 outbreak affecting twenty-seven people was recently investigated by Butte County Public Health (BCPH). The outbreak occurred among those who attended an event held in the community of Forest Ranch on September 6. The event was a fundraiser for the Forest Ranch Volunteer Fire Department. Cases ranged in age from two years old to one person in their 80’s. Four cases were hospitalized and are now home recovering. BCPH is monitoring for secondary cases with assistance from local healthcare providers. Cultures taken from leftover meat cooked at the event have grown E. coli 0157:H7 which matched the same bacteria isolated in the cases. The investigation continues to determine how the cooked meat was contaminated. Assisting BCPH has been the California Department of Public Health as well as the United States Department of Agriculture. In consultation with State and Federal health authorities, no meat recalls are indicated. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-27-O.pdf Dr. Mark Lundberg, Health Officer for Butte County Public Health Department (BCPHD), announced today that the number of identified E. coli O157 cases has risen to 24 and more are probable as the investigation into the outbreak continues. Four have been hospitalized. Public Health officials have been investigating the E. coli O157 outbreak in the County since early last week when it became clear that there was an abnormal amount of individuals becoming ill from E. coli. The outbreak is linked to an event held in Forest Ranch on Sept. 6 from noon to 6 p.m. The fundraiser event was for the Forest Ranch Volunteer Fire Department. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-26-O.pdf Dr. Mark Lundberg, Health Officer for Butte County Public Health Department (BCPHD), announced today that the number of identified E. coli O157 cases has risen to 21 and more are probable as the investigation into the outbreak continues. Four have been hospitalized. Public Health officials have been investigating the E. coli O157 outbreak in the County since early last week when it became clear that there was an abnormal amount of individuals becoming ill from E. coli. The outbreak is linked to an event held in Forest Ranch on Sept. 6 from noon to 6 p.m. The fundraiser event was for the Forest Ranch Volunteer Fire Department. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-25-O.pdf Butte County Public Health officials are investigating an outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 infection in Butte County. Three cases have been confirmed and a fourth case is probable. Three of these cases have been hospitalized. The outbreak is linked to an event held in the community of Forest Ranch on September 6th from 12-6pm. The event was a fundraiser for the Forest Ranch Volunteer Fire Department. The source of contamination has not yet been identified. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-24-O final.pdf Dr. Mark Lundberg, Health Officer for Butte County Public Health Department (BCPHD), today announced that a Chico woman has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV); the first confirmed human case in the Chico area this year. The woman observed only minor symptoms and is recovering. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-23-O.pdf Dr. Mark Lundberg, Health Officer for Butte County Public Health Department (BCPHD), today announced that a Butte County woman has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV), the first confirmed human case in the County this year. The woman observed only minor symptoms. She was not hospitalized and is recovering. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-22-O.pdf Today Butte County launched a discount card program to help consumers cope with the high price of prescription drugs. The county is making free prescription drug discount cards available under a program sponsored by the National Association of Counties (NACo) that offers average savings of 20 percent off the retail price of commonly prescribed drugs. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-21-O.pdf Proper child restraints saved the lives of two local children on the morning of April 21 when the vehicle their mother was driving overturned eastbound on Skyway. The incident attests to the importance of learning how to properly restrain children in vehicles. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-20-O.pdf Proposed amendments to the Butte County Animal Control Ordinance to be discussed on June 4 at a meeting open to the public. The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. in Oroville at Checkers Restaurant, located at 109 Table Mountain Blvd. The subcommittee of the Board of Supervisors, comprised of Supervisors Bill Connelly and Curt Josiassen, encourage public participation and comments http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-19-O.pdf Not only is the Silver Dollar Fair an opportunity to promote family fun, but family health and safety. Butte County Public Health Department (BCPHD) will sponsor a Mosquito Repellent Station, host a helmet giveaway and bike raffle and offer free sunscreen. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-17-C.pdf High temperatures are predicted in Butte County over the next few days, with local temperatures climbing into the triple digits for the first time this year. Butte County Public Health (BCPHD) warns that heat waves can cause unnecessary deaths and increases the chances of heat-related injuries. Children, the elderly and adults with disabilities may be more at risk for heat stroke and heat exhaustion. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-16-O.pdf New information on the Senior Health Improvement Program (SHIP) and Compulsive Hoarding is now available on the Public Health Website http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/nursing/nursing.html Today is World TB Day and local Public Health Departments around the globe along with the World Health Organization (WHO) want to raise public awareness of health threats associated with Tuberculosis (TB). http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-13-C.pdf On March 4, Butte County Public Health Department’s (BCPHD) Animal Control division is sponsoring a vaccination clinic from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at 2921 B. St. in Oroville at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-12-O.pdf The changes in the housing market are producing problems for homeowners and lenders throughout the country; especially in parts of California. The housing problem exists to a lesser degree in Butte County, but a side effect is still evident in some areas; it can be seen in the animals left behind ─ the pets that are casualties of foreclosures. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-11-O.pdf BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. ─ Influenza (flu) has officially arrived in Butte County, with multiple cases being diagnosed through laboratory confirmation. Communication with health care providers also indicates an increase of flu or flu-like illnesses http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-10-C.pdf Butte County Public Health Department’s (BCPHD) Animal Control division says a recent rise in canine distemper virus cases in Butte County and neighboring counties means pet owners need to be aware and take preventative measures to ensure the health and safety of their pets http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-09-O.pdf Butte County Public Health Department (BCPHD) to extend outreach and educational efforts to the community in honor of the eighth annual National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD) on Feb. 7, which encourages African- Americans across the U.S. to get educated, get tested, get involved and get treated for HIV/AIDS. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-08-C.pdf February is National Children’s Dental Health Month and Butte County Public Health Department, in collaboration with the Boys and Girls Clubs in Chico and Paradise, will be educating children and teens on dental health. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/07-27-c.pdf Tuesday California Department of Public Health (CDPH) will release an analysis report on pancreatic cancer trends in the Oroville area from 1988 to 2005. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-04-O.pdf The Butte County Public Health Department urges the public to consider the following information regarding their personal safety after last week’s emergency power outages: http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-03-O.pdf As of 5 p.m. Friday Jan. 4 there were approximately 43,000 residents in Chico, 15,000 residents in Oroville and 19,000 in Paradise without power; Gridley was beginning to have power restored. Butte County Public Health Department warns residents to be cautious of food that may not be safe to eat following the power outage. http://www.buttecounty.net/publichealth/news/08-02-O.pdf