Influenza Still Increasing in AZ
Yesterday afternoon's weekly flu report shows that influenza is still circulating widely in AZ... with a steep increase in the last couple of weeks. The strain that’s circulating is mostly Type A - H3N2 which can be more severe than the 2009 H1N1, especially for seniors. There are plenty of B strains going around too. But you can still find a vaccine through Stop the [...]
Program Spotlight: Lab Licensure
Those of you that actually read these posts know that we run Arizona’s benchmark public health laboratory. But many of you might not know that we also license and inspect clinical and environmental labs in AZ and even some in other parts of the country through our Clinical and Environmental Laboratory Licensing and Compliance programs. Our Clinical Lab Certification is [...]
New M2 Petitions on Horizon Again
Last January we accepted petitions from the public to add PTSD 1; PTSD 2; Depression; Migraines; and Generalized Anxiety Disorder to the list of conditions that qualify patients to receive a Medical Marijuana Registration Card. Because my guiding principle for making the decision was to use science and research to make the decision, we contracted with the U of A College of Public Health to [...]
Regulatory Reform Update
We’re continuing to make significant progress in our licensing regulatory reform efforts. Our overall goal is to simplify and streamline our regulations so they align with our strategic plan and map to improve public health outcomes. The new regulations will more acutely focus on health and safety criteria- and will put more emphasis on outcomes. We’ve held numerous meetings with [...]
Mental Health First Aid Hits National Stage
Mental Health First Aid reached the national stage this week in the Presidents message. This week’s Now is the Time document developed by the Fed’s advocates expanding Mental Health First Aid Training for teachers and adults who work with kids. The proposal also includes funding to help identified children and teens find treatment if they need it. Mental Health [...]
Selling Food
Food marketing to children and teens is a major public health concern. Earlier this year, the Walt Disney Company announced it will no longer accept advertisements for junk food on its child-directed television, radio, and online sites. Disney also updated its nutrition standards for foods that can be advertised to children. The food and beverage industry spends $2 billion per [...]