Lead poisoning can happen to anyone. Children under age 6 years are at a higher risk for lead poisoning because children’s growing bodies take in more lead than adults. No amount of lead is safe. Even small amounts of lead can harm a child’s brain. Children with lead poisoning do not always look or act sick. A blood test is the only way to know if your child has lead poisoning.
How Could My Child be Exposed to Lead?
Common sources of lead:
Peeling or deteriorated paint in older homes
Dirt outside
Work clothes and shoes if household members work with lead
Drinking water from lead service lines and faucets
Some imported home remedies and imported cosmetics
Some ceramic dishware
Some imported candies, foods, and spices
Some toys, jewelry, and other objects
Polluted air (from aviation gas, shooting ranges, some industry and construction sites)
Orange County Health Care Agency Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (CLPPP) provides free case management and environmental investigations for children with elevated lead levels, community outreach, and education to keep you informed about lead poisoning and lead poisoning prevention. Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (CLPPP) or call CLPPP at (714) 567-6220.
(Santa Ana, CA) - June 27 marks National HIV Testing Day (NHTD), which promotes testing and early diagnosis of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). This year’s NHTD theme is Level up your self-love: check your status. Now is the time to take an HIV test. Knowing your status is the first step to engaging in prevention or treatment services that enable individuals, regardless of their status, to live a long and healthy life.
There were 7,044 people living with HIV in Orange County at the end of 2023. Of those, 77% were receiving care. Untreated, HIV infection can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), which in turn can cause serious illness and death. Advances in HIV treatment have resulted in people living with HIV having longer and healthier lives. However the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that an additional 1,494 Orange County residents have HIV and don’t know it – some of whom will develop AIDS before knowing they have HIV. Additional HIV/AIDS data in Orange County includes:
During 2023, there were 266 Orange County residents newly diagnosed with HIV.
Of the newly diagnosed, 80% were linked to care in 30 days or less.
Of the newly diagnosed, 21% learned they had AIDS at the same time, indicating they were living with HIV for years before getting ill. They had been to a health care setting like an emergency room, a community health center, or their doctor, but were not tested for HIV.
The CDC recommends that people between 13 and 64 years of age get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. For those at high risk for HIV, including men who have sex with men (MSM), transgender individuals, and persons who inject drugs, the CDC recommends testing at least once per year as part of routine health care.
If you have never been tested for HIV, ask your health care provider for an HIV test. For those who test negative and are at high risk for HIV, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), a medication to prevent HIV, is available. Please contact the following agencies for information on free, confidential HIV testing, as well as for information on free or low-cost PrEP services available in Orange County:
AltaMed: Testing is offered Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call (714) 500-0491 or visit altamed.orgor https://www.instagram.com/growproud. AltaMed will be participating in The Greater Than AIDS Campaign (www.greaterthan.org) offering free HIV testing in partnership with Walgreens at 1826 W. Orangethorpe Ave, Fullerton, CA 92833 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 27.
APAIT Health Center: Testing is offered Monday - Friday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call (714) 636-1349 or visit www.apaitonline.org/ for more information. In recognition of NHTD, testing hours will be extended from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and walk-ins are encouraged on Thursday, June 27. In addition, APAIT will be participating in The Greater Than AIDS campaign (www.greaterthan.org) offering free HIV testing in partnership with Walgreens located at 12001 Euclid St., Garden Grove, CA 92840 and Walgreens located at 128 S. State College Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92806 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on NHTD at both Walgreens locations.
Families Together Orange County: Testing is offered at three locations: Tustin, Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Garden Grove, Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Fountain Valley - Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call (800) 597-7977 or visit https://familiestogetheroc.org/.
OC Health Care Agency/17th Street Testing & Treatment Clinic: Walk-ins accepted based on availability. Clinic hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call (714) 834-8787 to make an appointment or visit http://www.ochealthinfo.com/std for more information.
The LGBTQ Center Orange County: Testing is offered Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. To make an appointment or for more information call (714) 953-5428 or visit www.lgbtqcenteroc.org/. For HIV self-testing, the TakeMeHome Program offers free confidential HIV self-test kits that can be ordered online for individuals (17 or older) who are at risk for HIV and have never tested or who have not tested in the past six months https://takemehome.org.
ABOUT THE OC HEALTH CARE AGENCY The OC Health Care Agency (HCA) is a regional interdisciplinary health jurisdiction and an accredited health department, charged with protecting and promoting individual, family and community health through partnership and coordination of public and private sector resources. Visit www.ochealthinfo.com to learn more about services and resources.
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"Aumentando el nivel de amor propio: verifique que está sano." El Día Nacional de la Prueba del VIH es el jueves 27 de junio
(Santa Ana, CA) – El 27 de junio se celebra el Día Nacional de la Prueba del VIH (NHTD, por sus siglas en inglés), que promueve las pruebas y el diagnóstico temprano del VIH (virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana). El tema del NHTD de este año es Aumentando el nivel de amor propio: verifique que está sano. Ahora es el momento de hacerse una prueba de VIH. Conocer su condición es el primer paso para participar en servicios de prevención o tratamiento que permitan a las personas, independientemente de su estado, vivir una vida larga y saludable.
A finales de 2023, hubo 7.044 personas que vivían con el VIH en el Condado de Orange. De ellos, el 77% recibía atención. Si no se trata, la infección por el VIH puede conducir al SIDA (síndrome de inmunodeficiencia adquirida) que, a su vez, puede causar enfermedades graves y la muerte. Los avances en el tratamiento del VIH han hecho que las personas que viven con el VIH tengan vidas más largas y saludables. Sin embargo, los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC, por sus siglas en inglés) estiman que otros 1.494 residentes del Condado de Orange tienen VIH y no lo saben, y algunos desarrollarán SIDA antes de saber que tienen VIH. Datos adicionales sobre el VIH/SIDA en el Condado de Orange incluyen:
Durante el 2023, hubo 266 residentes del Condado de Orange recién diagnosticados con VIH.
De los recientemente diagnosticados, el 80% se vinculó a la atención en 30 días o menos.
De los recientemente diagnosticados, el 21% se enteró de que tenía SIDA al mismo tiempo, lo que indica que vivieron con el VIH durante años antes de enfermarse. Ellos habían estado en un entorno de atención médica como una sala de emergencias, un centro de salud comunitario o con su médico, pero no se les hizo la prueba del VIH.
Los CDC recomiendan que las personas entre 13 y 64 años se hagan la prueba del VIH al menos una vez como parte de la atención médica de rutina. Para las personas con alto riesgo de contraer el VIH, que incluye hombres que tienen relaciones sexuales con hombres (HSH), las personas transgénero y las personas que se inyectan drogas, los CDC recomiendan pruebas al menos una vez al año como parte de la atención médica de rutina.
Si nunca le han hecho la prueba del VIH, pídale a su proveedor de atención médica que le haga una prueba del VIH. Para aquellos que dan negativo a la prueba y tienen un alto riesgo de contraer el VIH, se dispone de profilaxis previa a la exposición (PrEP), un medicamento para prevenir el VIH. Por favor, póngase en contacto con las siguientes agencias para obtener información sobre las pruebas de VIH gratuitas y confidenciales, así como para obtener información sobre los servicios de PrEP gratuitos o de bajo costo disponibles en el Condado de Orange:
AltaMed: Las pruebas se ofrecen de lunes a viernes, de 8 A. M. a 4:30 P. M. Llame al (714) 500-0491o visite altamed.org o https://www.instagram.com/growproud. AltaMed participará en la campaña “Greater Than” contra el SIDA (www.greaterthan.org) y ofrecerá pruebas gratuitas del VIH en asociación con Walgreens en 1826 W. Orangethorpe Ave, Fullerton, CA 92833 de 9 A. M. a 4 P. M. el 27 de junio.
APAIT Health Center: las pruebas se ofrecen de lunes a viernes, de 10 A. M. a 4:30 P. M. Llame al (714) 636-1349 o visite www.apaitonline.org/ para obtener más información. En reconocimiento al NHTD, los horarios para realizarse la prueba se extenderán de 9 A. M. a 8 P. M. y, si no tiene cita, se recomienda acercarse el jueves 27 de junio. Además, APAIT participará en la campaña “Greater Than” contra el SIDA (www.greaterthan.org) que ofrece pruebas gratuitas del VIH en asociación con Walgreens ubicado en 12001 Euclid St., Garden Grove, CA 92840 y Walgreens ubicado en 128 S. State College Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92806 de 10 a. m. a 7 p. m. en el NHTD en ambas ubicaciones de Walgreens.
Families Together Orange County: Las pruebas se ofrecen en tres ubicaciones: Tustin, de lunes a viernes de 9 A. M. a 8 P. M., sábados de 9 A. M. a 4 P.M.; Garden Grove, de lunes a viernes de 9 A. M. a 6 P. M., sábados de 9 A. M. a 4 P. M.; Fountain Valley, de lunes a viernes de 9 A. M. a 6 P. M. Llame al (800) 597-7977 o visite https://familiestogetheroc.org/.
Agencia del Cuidado de la Salud del Condado de Orange/17th Street Testing & Treatment Clinic (Clínica de Tratamiento y Pruebas): Se aceptan visitas sin cita previa según disponibilidad. Horario de la clínica: Lunes, miércoles, jueves y viernes de 8 A. M. a 4 P. M. y martes de 10 A. M. a 4 P. M. Llame al (714) 834-8787 para hacer una cita o visite http://www.ochealthinfo.com/std para obtener más información.
El Centro LGBTQ Condado de Orange: Las pruebas se ofrecen los martes, de 10 A. M. a 8:30 P. M., miércoles y jueves, de 6 P. M. a 9 P. M., y los viernes, de 10 A. M. a 6 P. M. Para hacer una cita o para obtener más información, llame al (714) 953-5428 o visite www.lgbtqcenteroc.org/. Para realizarse la prueba del VIH usted mismo, el Programa TakeMeHome ofrece kits confidenciales gratuitos de prueba del VIH que se pueden pedir en línea para las personas (17 años o más) que están en riesgo de contraer el VIH y nunca se han hecho la prueba o que no se han hecho la prueba en los últimos seis meses https://takemehome.org.
Para obtener más sitios de pruebas e información sobre los servicios de VIH en el Condado de Orange, por favor, llame al (714) 834-8335 o visite www.ochealthinfo.com/phs/about/dcepi/hiv/sites.
ACERCA DE LA AGENCIA DEL CUIDADO DE LA SALUD DEL CONDADO DE ORANGE La Agencia de Cuidado de la Salud de OC (HCA) es una jurisdicción regional interdisciplinaria de salud y un departamento de salud acreditado, encargado de proteger y promover la salud individual, familiar y comunitaria a través de la asociación y la coordinación de recursos del sector público y privado. Visite www.ochealthinfo.com para obtener más información sobre servicios y recursos.
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“Nâng cao tự ái của bạn: Hãy kiểm tra tình trạng của bạn” Ngày Xét Nghiệm HIV Toàn Quốc là Thứ Năm, 27 Tháng Sáu
(Santa Ana, CA)– Ngày 27 Tháng Sáu đánh dấu Ngày Xét Nghiệm HIV Toàn Quốc (NHTD), nhằm phát động việc xét nghiệm và chẩn đoán sớm HIV (virus gây suy giảm miễn dịch ở người). Năm nay chủ đề của NHTD là Nâng cao tự ái của bạn: Hãy kiểm tra tình trạng của bạn. Bây giờ là thời điểm phải đi làm xét nghiệm HIV. Hiểu rõ tình trạng của bạn là bước đầu tiên để tham gia vào những dịch vụ ngăn ngừa hay chữa trị để giúp các cá nhân, bất kể tình trạng của họ, được sống một cuộc sống lâu dài và khỏe mạnh.
Đã có 7,044 người bị nhiễm HIV tại Quận Cam vào cuối năm 2023. Trong số này, 77% đã nhận được sự chăm sóc. Không chữa trị, bị nhiễm HIV có thể đưa tới bị bệnh AIDS (mắc phải hội chứng suy giảm miễn dịch), từ đó có thể gây bệnh năng và tử vong. Những tiến bộ trong việc điều trị đã giúp những người bị nhiễm HIV có cuộc sống lâu dài và khỏe mạnh hơn. Tuy nhiên Trung Tâm Bài Dịch Liên Bang (CDC) ước tính rằng có thêm 1,494 cư dân Quận Cam đã bị nhiễm HIV mà không biết được điều đó – một số trong những người này sẽ khai triển bệnh AIDS trước khi biết được rằng họ đã bị nhiễm HIV. Các dữ liệu bổ xung HIV/AIDS tại Quận Cam bao gồm:
Trong năm 2023, đã có 266 cư dân Quận Cam mới được chẩn đoán nhiễm HIV.
Trong số những chẩn đoán mới, 80% được kết nối với sự chăm sóc trong 30 ngày hay ít hơn.
Trong số những chẩn đoán mới, 21% đã biết là họ đã vướng phải bệnh AIDS cùng lúc, cho thấy rằng họ đã sống trong tình trạng HIV từ nhiều năm trước khi họ bị bệnh. Họ đã đến cơ sở chăm sóc sức khoẻ như phòng cấp cứu, trung tâm y tế cộng đồng hoặc bác sĩ của họ nhưng không được xét nghiệm HIV.
Cơ Quan CDC khuyến nghị những người từ 13 đến 64 tuổi nên xét nghiệm HIV ít nhất một lần trong quá trình chăm sóc sức khỏe định kỳ. Đối với những người có nguy cơ cao bị nhiễm HIV, bao gồm những người đàn ông có quan hệ tình dục với đàn ông (MSM), các cá nhân chuyển giới, và những người chích thuốc kích thích, Cơ Quan CDC khuyến nghị xét nghiệm ít nhất một lần trong quá trình chăm sóc sức khỏe định kỳ.
Nếu bạn chưa bao giờ xét nghiệm về HIV, hãy yêu cầu bác sĩ gia đình của bạn cung cấp một xét nghiệm về HIV. Đối với những người có kết quả xét nghiệm âm tính và có nguy cơ nhiễm HIV cao, có sẵn thuốc Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), một loại thuốc ngăn ngừa HIV. Xin liên lạc với những cơ quan sau đây để có thông tin về việc xét nghiệm miễn phí và bảo mật, cũng như để biết thông tin về các dịch vụ PrEP miễn phí hoặc chi phí thấp có sẵn ở Quận Cam.
AltaMed: Xét nghiệm được cung cấp từ ngày Thứ Hai đến Thứ Sáu, từ 8 giờ sáng đến 4:30 chiều. Gọi số (714) 500-0491 hay vào altamed.orghay https://www.instagram.com/growproud. AltaMed sẽ tham dự vào Chiến Dịch Vĩ Đại Hơn AIDS (www.greaterthan.org) cung cấp xét nghiệm HIV miễn phí cùng hợp tác với Walgreens tại 1826 W. Orangethorpe Ave, Fullerton, CA 92833 từ 9 giờ sáng đến 4 giờ chiều Ngày 27 Tháng Sáu.
Trung Tâm Sức Khỏe APAIT: Xét nghiệm cung cấp từ Thứ Hai – Thứ Sáu, 10 giờ sáng đến 4:30 giờ chiều. Gọi (714) 636-1349 hay vào www.apaitonline.org/ để biết thêm thông tin. Để công nhận NHTD, giờ xét nghiệm sẽ được gia tăng từ 9 giờ sáng đến 8 giờ tối và đến tận chổ không cần lấy hẹn trước cũng được chấp nhận vào ngày Thứ Năm, 27 Tháng Sáu. Thêm vào đó, APAIT sẽ tham dự vào chiến dịch Vĩ Đại Hơn AIDS (www.greaterthan.org) cung cấp xét nghiệm miễn phí HIV với sự hợp tác của Walgreens tọa lạc tại 12001 Euclid St., Garden Grove, CA 92840 và Walgreens tọa lạc tại 128 S. State College Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92806 từ 10 giờ sáng đến 7 giờ tối trên NHTD tại cả hai địa điểm Walgreens.
Families Together Orange County: Xét nghiệm được cung cấp tại ba địa điểm: Tustin, Thứ Hai đến Thứ sáu từ 9 giờ sáng đến 8 giờ tối, Thứ Bảy từ 9 giờ sáng đến 4 giờ chiều; Garden Grove, Thứ Hai đến Thứ Sáu từ 9 giờ sáng đến 6 giờ chiều; Thứ Bảy 9 giờ sáng đến 4 giờ chiều; Fountain Valley – Thứ Hai đến Thứ Sáu 9 giờ sáng đến 6 giờ chiều Gọi (800) 597-7977 hay vào https://familiestogetheroc.org/.
Cơ Quan Đặc Trách Y Tế Công Cộng/17th Street Bệnh Xá Xét Nghiệm & Chữa Trị: Đến tại chổ không lấy hẹn trước cũng được chấp nhận căn cứ trên việc còn chỗ trống. Giờ Bệnh Xá: Thứ Hai, Thứ Tư, Thứ Năm và Thứ Sáu,8 giờ sáng đến 4 giờ chiều và Thứ Ba, 10 giờ sáng đến 4 giờ chiều. Gọi (714) 834-8787 để làm hẹn hay vào http://www.ochealthinfo.com/std để biết thêm thông tin.
Trung Tâm LGBTQ Quận Cam: Xét Nghiệm được thực hiện vào Ngày Thứ Ba 10 giờ sáng đến 8:30 tối, Thứ Tư và Thứ Năm, 6 giờ chiều đến 9 giờ tối, và Thứ Sáu, 10 giờ sáng đến 6 giờ chiều. Để làm hẹn hay muốn biết thêm thông tin gọi số (714) 953-5428 hay vào www.lgbtqcenteroc.org/. Tự Xét Nghiệm HIV, Chương trình Đem Tôi Về Nhà (TakeMeHome Program) cung cấp bộ xét nghiệm HIV miễn phí bảo mật có thể tự đặt hàng trực tuyến cho mỗi cá nhân (từ 17 tuổi trở lên) là người có nguy cơ bị nhiễm HIV và chưa bao giờ xét nghiệm hay những người đã không xét nghiệm trong sáu tháng qua https://takemehome.org.
VỀ CƠ QUAN ĐẶC TRÁCH Y TẾ CÔNG CỘNG OC Cơ Quan Đặc Trách Y Tế Công Cộng OC (HCA) là cơ quan y tế tài phán liên ngành trong khu vực và là sở y tế được công nhận, chịu trách nhiệm bảo vệ và tăng cường sức khỏe cá nhân, gia đình và cộng đồng thông qua liên hệ đối tác và phối hợp các nguồn tài nguyên công và tư. Xin vào www.ochealthinfo.com để biết thêm về những dịch vụ và tài nguyên.
(Santa Ana, CA) - On June 25, 2024, the Orange County Board of Supervisors appointed Ian Kemmer, as the new Director of Behavioral Health Services (BHS), for the OC Health Care Agency (HCA). Kemmer brings 22 years of behavioral health experience to the role. He holds a Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). Kemmer will take over the role from Interim BHS Director, Annette Mugrditchian. Most recently, Ian served as the Assistant Deputy Director of Adult and Older Adult Mental Health Services at the HCA, where he was responsible for oversight of Adult Outpatient and Intense Outpatient Services; Recovery Support Services including Veteran supportive services; Housing and Supportive Services which includes 12 Long-Term Care programs, 325 permanent supportive housing units, five residential rehab units, and eight Bridge housing programs. In prior roles at the HCA, Kemmer led the development of Annual Provider Training, Medi-Cal auditing certified review process and oversight of the Managed Care Support Team. “In his tenure with the HCA, Ian has established himself as a dedicated and caring champion for behavioral health and is well-positioned to take over leadership of the HCA’s Behavioral Health team,” said Dr. Veronica Kelley, HCA Agency Director. “This is an unprecedented time of change for the public Behavioral Health system, and Ian will be an asset in transforming the HCA to navigate the future.” “I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as the new Behavioral Health Services Director for the HCA,” said Kemmer. “Throughout my career, I have worked tirelessly to improve the mental health and well-being of our community, and I look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the lives of those we serve. In recent years, mental health and substance-use disorders have become a critical focus of our community, with increasing recognition of the need for comprehensive care and support. I am looking forward to facing these changes head on as we transform our system for the better.” Kemmer will assume his new role as Behavioral Health Services Director beginning June 28, 2024.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is issuing this Health Alert Network (HAN) Health Advisory to notify healthcare providers, public health authorities and the public of an increased risk of dengue virus (DENV) infections in the United States in 2024. Global incidence of dengue in 2024 has been the highest on record for this calendar year; many countries are reporting higher-than-usual dengue case numbers. In 2024, countries in the Americas have reported a record-breaking number of dengue cases, exceeding the highest number ever recorded in a single year. From January 1 – June 24, 2024, countries in the Americas reported more than 9.7 million dengue cases, twice as many as in all of 2023 (4.6 million cases). In the United States, Puerto Rico has declared a public health emergency (1,498 cases) and a higher-than-expected number of dengue cases have been identified among U.S. travelers (745 cases) from January 1 – June 24, 2024.
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) would like to inform health care providers that the first known United States (U.S.) case of sexually transmitted Trichophyton mentagrophytes genotype VII (TMVII) was reported in June 2024 in a patient who had recently traveled to California. TMVII is a rare dermatophyte (e.g., ringworm or tinea) infection that causes highly inflammatory, painful, and persistent lesions, often affecting the anogenital or perioral areas, and may require weeks of oral antifungal treatment. Prior to this case, sexual transmission of TMVII had been reported in France, primarily among men who have sex with men (MSM), and among other persons in European countries returning from Southeast Asia who had engaged in sex tourism. Given the novelty of sexually transmitted dermatophyte infections and the potential for local spread in the United States, CDPH would like to inform clinicians of TMVII as a potential emerging public health concern and provide guidance on the clinical recognition, diagnosis, and treatment of patients who are suspected to have this infection.
Don’t let foodborne illness steal the joys of your holiday season. Staying healthy and food safe can be easy if you follow the right steps.
Who’s at risk for foodborne illness?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports an estimated 1 in 6 Americans (or 48 million people) get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die from foodborne diseases every year. 1
Pregnant people
Pregnant people are at increased risk of getting sick from food poisoning. Some foods pregnant people should avoid are:
Raw or undercooked poultry or meat
Unheated deli meat and cold cuts like hot dogs or dry sausages
Unpasteurized and raw milk and dairy products made from raw milk
Soft cheeses like queso fresco, queso blanco, brie, feta, and blue veined cheese
Raw or undercooked seafood
Smoked seafood (except in a cooked dish)
Unpasteurized juice or cider
Uncooked flour, including raw dough or batter
Any holiday punches or eggnogs that are alcoholic (due to effects of alcohol on the fetus, not because of foodborne illness)
Children under 5 years old
Growing bodies with developing immune systems can’t fight off illnesses like adults can. This puts children under 5 years old at higher risk for foodborne illness. Some foods children should avoid are:
Raw or undercooked foods including meat, poultry, and eggs
Unpasteurized milk or juice
Raw or undercooked oysters and seafood
Honey (if your child is under 1 year old)
Learn more about people at higher risk for foodborne illness:
CDC: Safer Food Choices for Pregnant People English | Spanish
FoodSafety.gov: People at Risk: Children Under Five English | Spanish
HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics [AAP]): Food-Borne Illnesses Prevention English | Spanish
Food Poisoning Warning Bells
Food poisoning symptoms can last a few hours and up to a few days. Some common symptoms to look out for are:
Diarrhea
Stomach pain or cramps
Nausea
Vomiting
Fever
Call your doctor if you/your child have any of these severe food poisoning symptoms:
High fever (over 102°F)
Bloody diarrhea
Diarrhea for more than three days
Frequent vomiting
Dehydration (dry mouth and throat, feeling dizzy when you stand up, decreased urine)
Resources
U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Holiday Food Safety English | Spanish
In the United States, the leading cause of death for infants 1 month to 1 year is Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID). This includes sleep related deaths such as accidental suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
There are about 3,400 sleep related deaths among US infants each year [1]. Infant deaths from accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed have been increasing due to unsafe sleeping practices [2]. In Orange County from 2010-2021, 104 babies died with SUID [3].
You can drastically reduce the risk by following the ABCs of safe sleep. Babies should sleep:
Alone
On their back
In a crib, bassinet or pack n’ play with no pillows, blankets or toys
Other recommendations to reduce the risk of SUID/SIDS are:
Use a firm and flat sleep surface such as a mattress covered by a fitted sheet in a safety approved crib or bassinet.
Do not put any other bedding or soft items in the sleep area.
Share your room, but NOT your bed, with your baby. Keep the baby’s bassinet or crib in your bedroom for at least the first 6 months.
If the baby falls asleep in a car seat, stroller, swing or infant carrier, move them to their crib or bassinet as soon as you can.
Don’t let babies sleep on a couch, armchair or nursing pillow – it’s dangerous.
Breastfeed your baby.
Consider offering a pacifier, with nothing attached, at nap time and bedtime.
Avoid putting hats on your baby when indoors to avoid overheating.
Give your baby “tummy time” for short periods of time while awake and someone is watching them.
Don’t smoke in the home or allow others to smoke around your baby.
Data source: California Comprehensive Death File. Population source: CA Dept of Finance, P-3 estimates. 2022 estimate downloaded 8/6/2023. 2021 and prior estimates from Conditions of Children supplemental tables. Orange County Health Care Agency.
As the air becomes crisper and the days become shorter, influenza (“flu”) season is entering its peak. During the fall and winter months, pregnant people, infants, and children under the age of 5 years or with special health care needs are among the most vulnerable to getting seriously ill. Preventing influenza is easier than treating it.
Why Get Vaccinated Against Influenza?
Flu can be a serious illness. Every year the flu causes millions of people to be ill, hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations and thousands of deaths.
Getting a flu vaccine is the first and most important action in reducing your risk of flu and its serious outcomes. Flu vaccine can keep you and your child from getting very sick from flu and lower your chances of serious illness, complications, and hospitalization.
Pregnant people are at high risk for flu complications. Flu vaccine during pregnancy can help protect pregnant people AND their baby from complications, such as
preterm birth
low birth weight
stillbirth
pneumonia
hospitalization
Babies younger than 6 months old have the highest rates of hospitalization and death but are unable to get a flu vaccine because they are too young. Giving flu vaccines to everyone in contact with these young babies helps protect the babies.
Certain children and adults have a higher risk of hospitalization for flu complications. It is especially important that these high risk people get a flu vaccine every year:
Children under 5 years of age, especially those under 2 years old.
Children and adults that have chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease
People 65 years of age and older.
Everyone six months of age and older should receive the flu vaccine every year.
For more information on flu in pregnant people:
MotherToBaby: Seasonal Influenza (the flu) English | Spanish
For more information on children with higher risk for flu complications:
HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics): Flu: A Guide for Parents of Children or Adolescents with Chronic Health Conditions English | Spanish
For more information on flu in infants and young children:
HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics): Protecting Babies & Young Children From Flu: What Parents Need to Know English | Spanish
Are flu vaccines safe for pregnant people, their developing babies, and children?
YES! Flu vaccines are safe. They have been studied extensively in hundreds of millions of Americans over more than 50 years and have an excellent safety record.
The flu vaccine is safe for pregnant women and their babies. Safety of flu vaccines for pregnant people and their babies is supported by several large studies.
Getting a flu shot while pregnant does NOT increase the risk of miscarriage or stillbirth
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that people who are or will be pregnant during influenza season receive a flu shot
There is no need to get special permission or written consent from your doctor to get vaccinated against flu at a worksite clinic, pharmacy, or other location outside of your doctor’s office
Getting a flu shot while pregnant protects mom and the baby. It is the most important action a person can take to protect against flu and its complications.
For more information, see the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s Flu Vaccine Safety and Pregnancy English | Spanish
What about if someone has an egg allergy?
People with egg allergy, even with severe egg allergy, may get ANY flu vaccine that is otherwise appropriate for their age and health status.
No additional safety measures are needed beyond those recommended for receipt of any vaccine.
For more information, see CDC’s Flu Vaccine Safety Information English | Spanish
What Everyday Steps Can I Take to Help Protect Against the Flu?
The flu is spread from person to person when an infected person coughs, talks or sneezes. In addition to getting a yearly flu vaccine, you (and your family) should:
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing. Wearing a mask around others if you are sick (and over age 2 years) can help protect others.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Keep their distance from people who are sick.
Stay home if sick. Sharing is not caring when it comes to the flu.
For flu, the CDC recommends that people stay home for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone (except to get medical care or other necessities), without using fever-reducing medicine.
Breastfeed your baby if you are able to.
Breastfeeding baby is a great way to help protect your baby! Breastmilk has antibodies and other substances in it that can help protect your baby from the flu and other infections.
Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces in the home often.
To learn more about proper handwashing:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Stop Germs! Stay Healthy! Wash Your Hands English | Spanish
To learn more about flu vaccines for children:
HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics): Which Flu Vaccine Should Children Get? English | Spanish
To learn about flu vaccines during pregnancy:
HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics): Is It Safe To Get A Flu Shot If I Am Pregnant? English | Spanish
If you don’t have a provider, call the Health Referral Line (1-800-564-8448) or see http://www.coccc.org for information about free or low cost medical services in Orange County.
By the age of 2 years, most children have had RSV infection. RSV is a virus that usually causes mild respiratory illness, such as runny nose, cough and cold symptoms. Some children, especially young babies, are more likely to get severe RSV. Last year, Orange County saw record levels of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) hospitalizations among children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that every year 58,000 to 80,000 children under the age of 5 years end up in the hospital because of RSV. No one wants to see their child sick in the hospital.
Why is RSV Dangerous to My Child?
RSV is the most common cause of hospitalization for children under 1 year old.
Some RSV complications include:
Difficulty breathing
Bronchiolitis
Pneumonia
Other infections, like ear infections.
Some children are high risk for severe RSV, including:
Babies under 1 year old, especially under 6 months old
Premature babies
Children younger than 2 years old born with a heart condition or who have chronic lung disease
Children with weakened immune systems or neuromuscular disorders, especially those who can’t swallow or clear mucus on their own.
To learn more about RSV:
HealthyChildren.org: RSV: When It’s More Than a Cold English | Spanish
CDC: RSV in Infants and Young Children English | Spanish
To learn more about RSV warning signs in babies:
American Lung Association: Understanding RSV English | Spanish
What Should My Family Do to Stay Protected Against RSV?
Get vaccinated if you are pregnant and your baby will be born during RSV season
RSV vaccine is recommended for all pregnant people who are 32-36 weeks pregnant during RSV season (generally September through January).
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Should I get the RSV vaccine during pregnancy? English
Talk to your pediatrician about whether your baby is eligible for the new RSV antibody shot (nirsevimab) and if it is available. The RSV antibody shot is recommended for:
Babies younger than 8 months of age who are born during or entering their first RSV season.
Children aged 8-19 months entering their second RSV season who are at increased risk for severe RSV, including:
Children who have chronic lung disease from being born prematurely and who require medical therapy for their lung disease
Children who are severely immunocompromised
Children with severe cystic fibrosis
American Indian and Alaska Native children.
Since the nirsevimab RSV immunization is new, supply is limited this season and will be given to those most likely to have severe RSV. Those eligible include babies who:
Weigh less than 11 pounds and are eligible for the lowest dose
Are younger than 6 months old
Are 6 to 7 months old and have a medical condition that makes them more likely to have severe RSV
Identify as American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) and:
are younger than age 8 months, OR
are 8 through 19 months old AND live in a remote region.
Babies at higher risk who can’t get the new RSV immunization this season may be able to get a different RSV immunization, palivizumab, for the 2023–2024 RSV season.
For more information on RSV immunization in infants, visit HealthyChildren.org Is the RSV Immunization Available for Infants? English | Spanish
Breastfeed your baby, if you’re able to.
Follow these every day steps to reduce the spread of illnesses:
Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds and help your children do the same.
Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.
Keep your child away from people who are sick.
Wear a mask around your child if you or other family members are feeling sick.
Frequently clean and disinfect surfaces in your home.
Where Can I Get an RSV Vaccine or Immunization?
For pregnant people :
Contact your health care provider for more information about the RSV vaccine.
Visit your local pharmacy.
If you don’t have a provider, call the Health Referral Line (1-800-564-8448) or see http://www.coccc.org for information about free or low cost medical services in Orange County.
For babies under 8 months old or infants/toddlers who are at high risk for severe RSV disease:
The nirsevimab RSV immunization is in limited supply this season. Contact your pediatrician for more information.
If you don’t have a provider, call the Health Referral Line (1-800-564-8448) or see http://www.coccc.org for information about free or low cost medical services in Orange County.
Set to open in 2025, campus will serve children, adolescents, adults and families
(Santa Ana, CA)– The County of Orange Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a Master Services Agreement (MSA) with Mind OC, the 501C3 nonprofit organization which is the fiscal agent for public and private funds to support Be Well OC, on May 21, 2024. The approval allows Be Well OC to expand its provision of a wide range of critical and comprehensive mental health and substance use disorder services to Orange County residents in collaboration with the OC Health Care Agency’s (HCA) Behavioral Health System.
“Orange County is a place where community members can find support, resources, and hope on their journey to mental health wellness. I am grateful we can extend the reach of our County’s Behavioral Health System,” said, Chairman Donald P. Wagner, OC Board of Supervisors, Third District. “Our expanding partnership with the Be Well campuses will provide best-in-class clinical services for mental health and substance use for children, adolescents, adults and families.”
Services funded under the MSA that will be provided at Be Well’s Irvine campus include:
Sobering Center
Adult Clinically Managed Withdrawal Management
Adult Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Residential Treatment
Adult Co-Occurring Residential Treatment
Adolescent Residential SUD Treatment
Perinatal SUD Residential Treatment
Adult Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU)
Children’s Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU)
“Orange County is leading the way in Behavioral Health with the expansion of Be Well OC, co-locating mental health care and substance use disorder services all under one roof -- something not yet done in the state,” said Vice Chairman Doug Chaffee, OC Board of Supervisors, Fourth District. “We are breaking down barriers towards accessing mental health services and serving as a model for other counties to build upon.”
The Irvine campus, currently under construction and scheduled to open in May 2025, has been supported through a variety of stakeholders and partners. The Board of Supervisors approved $40 million for the construction of the Irvine campus. In addition, $15 million was approved by the CalOptima Health Board of Directors, $37.6 million in Behavioral Health Continuum Infrastructure Program (BHCIP) grant funding from the State of California (secured by the OC Health Care Agency), $12 million for capital was secured by Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris, $2 million in Federal dollars was secured by Congressman Lou Correa (CA-46) in the Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23) omnibus appropriations bill, along with additional investments from MemorialCare, Hoag and Kaiser Permanente.
“In 2015, through the Orange County Board of Supervisors Mental Health Ad Hoc Committee, we reexamined local mental health services, leading to the creation of the first Be Well OC campus in Orange,” said Supervisor Andrew Do, First District. “With this second, substantially larger facility in Irvine, Be Well OC has solidified its place as a public-private partnership model for our state and the rest of the country.”
The Be Well OC Irvine campus is located on 22 acres of county-owned property that was deeded to the County of Orange as part of on the former Marine Corps Air Station El Toro. The long-term vision for the Irvine Campus is to provide a full continuum of mental health, substance use, and wellness services for children, adolescents, families and adults in Orange County, from urgent care to residential treatment to community wellness support.
“Orange County has become a leader in transforming behavioral health care,” said Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento, Second District. "The new campus in Irvine, developed in partnership between the Orange County Health Care Agency and Mind OC, will help us fulfill our commitment to providing the quality treatment every patient deserves, regardless of their financial circumstances. I am pleased to see the expansion of these services, which will increase accessibility for everyone in need.”
The Campus will be developed in three areas, beginning with Area 1 which includes approximately 75,000 square feet of building space to house an array of adult services, including crisis stabilization mental health urgent care, a sobering center, and residential and outpatient programs. The community has been instrumental in identifying the types of services and programs needed to help children, adults and families reach their optimal mental health.
“Hope starts here in Orange County. Our vision for transforming the mental health system of care for South County’s children, youth and families continue to grow at the Be Well Irvine Campus,” said Supervisor Katrina Foley, Fifth District. “With doors opening next year, residents of all economic levels will soon have access to critical mental health and substance use treatment while offering a place for families to support their loved ones in crisis. This latest expansion of services at the Be Well Irvine Campus proves Orange County’s commitment to fostering health, wellness, and resiliency programs for our community.”
Area 2 is planned for child, youth, and perinatal specialty programming, expanding both residential and outpatient services capacity while supporting the entire family. Area 3 will expand opportunities for community connections by providing space for educational programs and classrooms, centralized support and navigation services, community meetings, faith and culture event space, and youth and senior centers.
“Be Well OC represents systems change that makes mental health care accessible to all,” said Rick Afable, MindOC Board Chair. “We appreciate County of Orange and the OC Health Care Agency leadership and the support of our many public, private, academic and faith-based partners who are part of the Be Well movement. The Board’s approval of the MSA accelerates the expansion of Be Well’s programs and services, building upon the success of those offered at our Orange campus. By incorporating additional mental health and substance use disorder programs tailored for children, adolescents, pregnant women and families, we will continue to change the conversation about mental health and wellness in Orange County and beyond.”
In addition to much needed clinical services, the Irvine location will provide wrap-around wellness support to families and the entire community, including a multi-entity health care collective integrating public and private health systems across Orange County with youth and community education and enrichment. Services will be available to all Orange County residents regardless of insurance or ability to pay.
"Our Be Well OC collaboration represents yet another crucial step forward in our continuing commitment to comprehensive mental health and substance use disorder services for Orange County residents,” said, Dr. Veronica Kelley, OC Health Care Agency Director. “Partnering to provide a wide range of programs tailored to various age groups and needs, we are fostering a community where support and resources are readily accessible to all."
The Campus’ design is intentional - low density, modern, simple, warm and inviting—creating a sense of dignity, belonging and hope to those seeking help.
