Tuesday, January 29, 2013
More than 3,200 cases of flu including eight deaths have been reported in Lehigh Valley through Jan. 26.
Flu-related emergency department visits continued declining last week, but current activity remains above average, according to the latest flu statistics released Jan. 29 by the Pa. Department of Health. This season's flu outbreak in Pennsylvania is still described as "widespread." Eight flu-related deaths -- four in Lehigh and four in Northampton counties -- have been documented in the Lehigh Valley. That number is up from two deaths last week. Westfield Hospital in South Whitehall Township will hold a free flu shot clinic from 3 to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 30. Statewide, 27 influenza-related deaths were reported last week, including one death of a child. Altogether, 102 flu-related deaths have been reported season-to-date. A majority (…
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Flu cases have doubled in Pennsylvania in recent weeks and it's a good time to review the symptoms - and get a flu shot
- THE NEIGHBORHOOD FILES
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Saturday, December 22, 2012
It's still not too late to get a flu shot. There's been a big increase in flu cases in Pennsylvania in recent weeks. The following health tip is from the Pa. Department of Health: Influenza, also known as the flu, is a contagious disease that is caused by the influenza virus. It attacks the respiratory tract in humans (nose, throat, and lungs). The flu is different from a cold. Influenza usually comes on suddenly and may include these symptoms: These symptoms are usually referred to as "flu-like symptoms." If you think you have the flu, or do get sick, stay home from work or school so that you don’t infect or make others ill.
Friday, December 14, 2012
Flu cases in Pennsylvania have gone from sporadic to widespread, state health officials warn
- LOCAL CONNECTIONS
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Friday, December 14, 2012
The Department of Health reports there has been a significant rise in influenza activity across Pennsylvania since Thanksgiving. The Department of Health is reporting flu activity has increased from sporadic to widespread throughout the state, meaning at least half of the state’s regions are experiencing outbreaks of influenza or increases in influenza-like illness. The flu made an appearance earlier this year than in most flu seasons, as widespread activity is usually not seen until January. The number of cases reported to the department more than doubled in the past week. “If you decided to wait, now is the perfect time to get vaccinated against the flu,” Acting Secretary of Health Michael Wolf said. “Ensuring that you and your family …
Monday, October 22, 2012
The Pa. Department of Health offers a free breast cancer early detection program called HealthyWoman
- BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
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Monday, October 22, 2012
A free breast and cervical cancer early detection program called the HealthyWoman Program is available through the Pennsylvania Department of Health. Free services for those meeting the eligibility standards include: To view a chart of Eligibility at a Glance click here or call 1-800-215-7494 to find out if you are eligible. If breast or cervical cancer is detected through the HWP, patients will be able to receive free treatment through the Department of Public Welfare’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Preventionand Treatment Program. Why is the HealthyWoman Program Important?
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Colored contact lenses popular for Halloween can damage eyes, the Pa. Department of Health warns
- NEWS
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Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Decorative or cosmetic contact lenses sold without a prescription can pose a serious health risk, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Health. The lenses are popular for Halloween, but they are also dangerous, health officials warn. “Contacts sold without a prescription at flea markets, costume shops, beauty salons, online and other places can cause serious damage to your eyes from improper fit,” said Department of Health Secretary Dr. Eli N. Avila. “Every eye has its own unique shape and curvature, and many of these decorative lenses lack proper instruction for use.” Contact lenses that are improperly fitted or used can cause the loss of an eye, blindness, impaired vision, corneal damage, infection and allergic reactions. Dr. Avila…
Mary Ellen Alu
9:15 pm on Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Kerry and Chris, LVH sent out a release last week saying the infant did NOT die from the flu, as first believed. http://uppermacungie.patch.com/articles/flu-f36a29e2 State also has a breakdown of deaths by age. Chart here.http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt?open=514&objID=557490&mode=2 more ›