northwest health district alert:

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Widespread Flu Activity in Georgia, Protect Yourself and Prevent the Spread of Flu

ATLANTA – If you have not gotten a flu shot yet, do not wait any longer. Flu activity is already widespread in Georgia – earlier than we’ve seen in recent years. “Every individual over the age of six months should get a flu vaccine – not just for their own protection, but to protect others around them who may be more vulnerable to the flu and its complications,” says Kathleen E. Toomey, M.D., M.P.H., DPH commissioner. “It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies that protect against flu to develop in the body, so now is the time to get a flu shot.”

Atlanta – The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) will begin offering the new bivalent COVID-19 booster this week, as shipments of the vaccine arrive in the state. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommend the bivalent booster manufactured by Pfizer for individuals aged 12 and older; and they recommend the bivalent booster by Moderna for adults aged 18 and older. “All boosters we’re giving at our ten Northwest Georgia health departments will be these new bivalents,” says Dr. Gary Voccio, health director for the Georgia Department of Public Health Northwest Health District.

Monkeypox Vaccination Offered at Atlanta Black Pride Events

Atlanta – The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) and metro Atlanta health districts are offering monkeypox vaccinations at various locations and times during Atlanta Black Pride. A list of vaccination sites and hours of operation can be found on the DPH website. In most cases, walk-ins are welcome.

Monkeypox Vaccine and Testing In Northwest Georgia Available by Appointment to Eligible Residents

ROME, GA: The Georgia Department of Public Health Northwest Health District has received limited doses of monkeypox vaccine as part of the distribution of federally funded JYNNEOSTM vaccine to public health districts throughout Georgia. These vaccines are available at no cost to the individual. However, due to a limited number of doses, the vaccines are available online by appointment only, depending on supply, and only for people who are currently eligible for the vaccine.

Monkeypox Transmission in Public Settings, How to Prevent Spread of Infection

ATLANTA –The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) continues to closely monitor the current outbreak of monkeypox in the state. As of today, there are 625 confirmed monkeypox cases in Georgia. Testing and vaccination are available in health districts throughout the state; however, vaccine supplies from the federal government remain limited.

Kiosk for COVID-19 PCR Testing now open in Calhoun

Rome, GA: The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) is offering COVID-19 PCR testing at kiosks placed in communities across Georgia. In most locations, these kiosks offer access to COVID-19 testing 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  Currently, the only kiosk in Northwest Georgia is located in the entrance to the Emergency Department at AdventHealth Gordon Hospital, 1035 Red Bud Road, Calhoun.

Monkeypox Vaccine Availability in Northwest GA/Disponibilidad de la vacuna contra la viruela del mono en el noroeste de GA

Monkeypox Vaccine Availability: While not available to the general public, monkeypox vaccine is available through all Northwest Georgia county health departments for individuals meeting certain criteria.

Monkeypox Vaccine Availability in Georgia

 Atlanta – The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) has begun receiving limited doses of monkeypox vaccine. To date, Georgia has received approximately 3,000 doses of JYNNEOS vaccine – enough for 1,500 individuals since this is a two-dose vaccine series. The vaccine has been distributed upon request to health departments and for vaccination events in two counties. Allocations of monkeypox vaccine from the federal government will increase as production of the vaccine ramps up. 

High Temperatures in Georgia Raise Health Concerns 

ATLANTA – With temperatures expected to be in the high 90’s throughout the state for the next several days, and at times feeling like more than 100 degrees with the humidity, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) is urging Georgians to avoid prolonged exposure to the heat and sun and to limit strenuous outdoor activity to prevent heat related illnesses. To protect your health when temperatures are extremely high, remember to stay cool, stay hydrated and stay informed.

DPH Urges Parents to Talk to Their Pediatricians for Guidance During Baby Formula Shortage  

Atlanta – The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) is urging parents unable to find baby formula typically used for their child to contact their pediatrician about appropriate nutritional and safe feeding alternatives. Georgia WIC is working with WIC agencies statewide, local grocers and retailers, and formula manufacturers to help locate formula for clients, especially those in need of specialized formula.