Arizona’s last influenza season was record breaking. More than 35,000 people in Arizona were reported to be sick with flu – more people than during the 2009 H1N1 pandemic! Similarly, the rest of the country was hit hard last season with nearly one million Americans hospitalized and over 80,000 dying from flu. Getting your influenza [...]
As the holidays approach, visiting friends and family residing in nursing homes and assisted living facilities is a top priority for many. The visits, while strongly recommended by those involved in health care and aging, are sometimes very emotional. We highly recommend that visitors plan ahead to ensure that the time spent together is as [...]
Did you know many Americans gain between one and five pounds each holiday season? That doesn’t sound like much, but most people never manage to lose those extra pounds. However, you can do something to enjoy holiday festivities without the weight gain. I am inviting you to join the 12th annual Eat Smart, Move More, Maintain, [...]
National Adoption Day was Saturday, November 17th, and this year 128 children were adopted in Maricopa County! This annual event is held to raise awareness for the foster-care children nationwide who are waiting to find their forever families. Adoptions for hundreds of children are finalized on this special day. Our Bureau of Vital Records Birth [...]
The thought of holiday celebrations can bring feelings of both warmth and excitement. We all look forward to Grandma’s special recipe or our favorite holiday dish. Thanksgiving is certainly no exception, and the last thing you need on your holiday plate is a big serving of Salmonella. Following a few simple pieces of advice can help [...]
As of November 20, 2018, the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) is proud to announce its partnership with the United States Army. The Partnership for Youth Success (PaYS) Program provides America’s youth with an opportunity to serve their country while they prepare for their future. PaYS partners guarantee soldiers an interview and possible employment [...]
November 12 - 18, 2018 is U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week. This annual week-long observance raises awareness of the threat of antibiotic resistance and the importance of appropriate antibiotic prescribing. This week helps increase awareness of improving appropriate use of antibiotics in communities, in healthcare facilities, and even on the farm! Antibiotics save lives, and are [...]
Dust Storm Weather 6/6/06 A dust storm rolls into the Valley of the Sun Tuesday evening. The Arizona Center, St. Mary's Basilica and Chase Ballpark are in the foreground in downtown Phoenix, AZ. Photo by Rob Schumacher/The Arizona Republic Valley Fever Awareness Week is here! Did you know that valley fever (coccidioidomycosis) is [...]
During a disaster, local, state, and federal governments can declare a state of emergency to free up emergency funding and waive certain regulatory requirements that can impede rapid response. The steps for issuing such a declaration are often complicated by differing laws at the various levels of government. Additionally, it is not always clear how [...]
Halloween could be scary for different reasons than you think because on average, twice as many kids are killed while walking on Halloween than any other day of year! However, simple steps can be taken to ensure your children stay safe. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends making sure your children are seen. This can [...]
