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ACHD is responsible for protecting the public health and environment for more than 1.2 million county residents in southwestern Pennsylvania.
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Our mission:
"To assure quality public health services by promoting individual and community wellness, preventing injury, illness and premature death or disability, and protecting the population from harmful effects of chemical, biological and physical hazards within the environment."
PUBLIC MEETINGS: Schedule (Board of Health next meets on Wed., November 3, 2010)
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Newsworthy & Noteworthy:
- Shigella / Shigellosis
- Smoking in Public Places
- Safe Sleep for Infants
- Injury Prevention
The Health Department asks for your help in curbing a growing outbreak of a diarrheal illness caused by the highly contagious shigella bacteria. This bacteria can be easily spread person-to-person or through contaminated food, water or beverages. The best way to prevent shigella infection, or shigellosis, is to wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 30 seconds, especially after using the toilet, changing diapers, handling any stool-soiled material and before eating or preparing food and beverages. (June News Release) (See our Shigella Fact Sheet for more information) Pennsylvania's Clean Indoor Air Act prohibits smoking indoors in most work and public places. The state Department of Health has set up several ways you can report violations. By telephone, the Clean Indoor Air Helpline is 1-877-835-9535. Online, go to the state's complaint form page (Link to Pennsylvania complaint forms).
All babies, regardless of sleep location, should be positioned on their backs for sleep. Many experts believe that infants should sleep in their own sleeping space such as a crib, bassinet, portable crib or sidecar in the same room with the parents during the early months. (Follow this link for more Safe Sleep Tips for Infants.) October is SIDS Awareness Month; download an informative brochure here (PDF, opens in new window). To schedule a presentation on gun safety, fire prevention, falls in the elderly, or bullying, call our Injury Prevention number at 412-247-7817.
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Most Requested Links:
REQUEST INFORMATION ABOUT IMMUNIZATIONS FOR TRAVEL OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES: (Online Form)
REPORTING FORMS:
• Infectious Disease (PDF)
• MRSA (PDF)
• Perinatal Hepatitis B Report (PDF) |
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There are no active consumer alerts. Information on recent alerts can be viewed here. |
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(click Topic for more info) |
National Preparedness Month
September is National Preparedness Month! This awareness month is designed to encourage all Americans to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies in your home, at your business, and in your community. Follow this link to see what ACHD's Emergency Preparedness and Response division is all about.
Recycling Information
Recycle your hard-to-recycle items from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Sept. 25 at 3001 Railroad Street, Pittsburgh 15201 (Map it!); and October 16 at Robinson Mall. Fee for recycling, check here for details (PDF, opens in new window). There will also be a collection of household hazardous waste (chemicals, cleaners and paint, etc.) from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., September 18 at Monroeville Mall, check here for an informational flyer. (PDF, opens in new window)
Raccoon Rabies Baiting Program
ACHD's 2010 Raccoon Rabies Baiting Program was completed during the final week of August. More information about the need for this program and what to do if you, your child or your pet comes in contact with the live bait can be found here. A printable version of this information can be downloaded here (PDF, opens in new window).
Flu Season is Upon Us
Flu refers to illnesses caused by a number of different influenza viruses. Flu can cause a range of symptoms and effects, from mild to lethal. Here are a few resources to help you understand more about Influenza.
Contests & Awards
Accepting Entries: The Allegheny County Immunization Coalition sponsors its 3rd Annual “Community Immunity” art contest for students in grades 9-12. The 2010 "Breastfeeding Friendly Place" Award winners were announced on August 1. See the winners here. Also, the 2010 ACHD Pittsburgh Regional Science and Engineering Fair Winners have been announced. See them here.
Farmers Market Nutrition Program
The WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program provides checks to eligible WIC participants to buy locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables. Jump to 2010 Farmers Market Nutrition Program for details.
Please Report Dead Birds
The PA Dept. of Health asks that residents please report sightings of dead crows, blue jays, hawks, owls, falcons, ravens, or buzzards. Use PA DOH's online Report a Dead Bird Form (link opens a new window).
New Air Quality Rule
A new "In-Use Off-Road Diesel Powered Mobile Equipment Engine Idling regulation" - §2105.93 of Article XXI - became effective May 1, 2010. Read it here (PDF).
Medical Reserve Corps
The Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) is a volunteer organization of active and retired medical and medically-allied personnel who would respond to major emergencies and public health initiatives. (Find out more and see how easy it is to join here)
River Water Quality Text Alerts
Recreational Boaters can register to receive river water quality (Combined Sewer Overflow) alerts texted to their mobile phone during the Summer recreational boating season. Learn more and subscribe here.
Uninsured/Underinsured Guide
Uninsured and Underinsured Resource Guide (Link)
Lead Exposure
Tips to Prevent Lead Exposure (Fact Sheet) "Renovate Right" to Reduce Risk of Lead Exposure (Details)
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