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Governor Fletcher Bans Smoking at State Offices
Executive Order will take effect August 1

Governor Ernie Fletcher signed an executive order today to prohibit smoking in state offices and common areas occupied by the executive branch beginning Aug. 1. State government joins a growing list of Kentucky businesses, organizations and cities to enact smoking bans, following the passage of House Bill 55 by the 2006 Kentucky General Assembly.

Officials from the Health and Family Services and Finance and Administration Cabinets, the Kentucky League of Cities, tobacco control advocacy groups and representatives from state universities joined Governor Fletcher to show support for the ban. The move comes on the heels of HB 55, which takes effect July 12 and gives the executive branch, local governments and universities the authority to prohibit smoking in government-owned buildings across the state.

Smoke-free policies are considered crucial steps in reducing the amount of exposure to secondhand smoke, also called environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), and reducing smoking rates. In late June, the United States Surgeon General issued a report on the harmful effects of secondhand smoke, including premature disease and death in nonsmoking kids and adults.

"Smoking is a principal cause for lung disease and heart disease and has been associated with numerous types of cancer," said William Hacker, M.D., commissioner of the Department for Public Health and acting undersecretary for health for CHFS. "Our tobacco prevention and cessation program strongly advocates smoking bans on a local level. I’m glad to see state government follow in the footsteps of other entities around the state and the nation that have already taken this important step."

Dr. William Hacker stands behind Governor
Fletcher as the tobacco ban order is signed.

According to DPH, tobacco use accounts for 7,691 deaths a year in Kentucky and 400,000 deaths nationwide. Kentucky has the highest smoking rate in the country and the second highest prevalence of pregnant women who smoke.

Finance and Administration and CHFS will lead efforts to ensure the smoking ban is put into effect beginning Aug. 1. Additional prevention and cessation programs designed to encourage employee wellness will continue. Since April, state employees have had access to a new smoking cessation benefit through the state health insurance plan. The benefit covers up to three months of nicotine replacement therapy for employees using the Kentucky Tobacco Quit Line or attending a Cooper/Clayton tobacco session class (offered at local health departments). State employees can learn more about this benefit at the Personnel Cabinet's Wellness Works Web site at personnel.ky.gov/wellness/smokecess

For help quitting, call toll free (800)-QUITNOW or the tobacco coordinator in your local health department.

The preceding was a press release from Clay County native and current Commissioner, Kentucky Department for Public Health, William D. Hacker. Read the entire press release at....
Kentucky Department for Public Health

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Clay County women encouraged to sign up with UK health registry

The Division of Women’s Physical and Mental Health in the Cabinet for Health and Family Services is working with the University of Kentucky Center for the Advancement of Women’s Health to promote and encourage women to take part in the first-of-its kind statewide registry to track women’s health trends.

"The UK Women’s Health Registry is a great beginning in efforts to track health trends across generations of Kentucky women," said Joyce Jennings, director of the Cabinet’s women’s health division. "The registry will help us better understand the impact of geographic, cultural, socioeconomic and other factors on the health of women in the commonwealth."

Research has shown that women and men respond differently to some medical treatments, present with different symptoms for the same diseases and generally experience health issues in different ways. Women also encounter stressors and other health influences that may affect their health differently than men.

According to Leslie J. Crofford, M.D., director of the UK Center for the Advancement of Women’s Health, one of the objectives of the registry is to generate long-term women’s health research data to improve the design and delivery of treatment and prevention options based on Kentucky women’s needs. The registry may also help increase women’s participation in UK medical research.

Registry participants receive health information and periodic status reports. Clinical trials offered through the registry program offer women access to new drugs and alternative therapies, specialty physicians, support systems and, in some cases, monetary compensation.

All personal information is safeguarded and confidential. Medical researchers must meet rigorous approval and screening criteria to qualify for access to registry information. Participation in both the registry and associated clinical trials is voluntary.

The registry survey is available online at www.kywomensregistry.com. You may also request a mail-in survey by calling [phone] or toll-free [phone].

The preceding was a press release from Clay County native and current Commissioner, Kentucky Department for Public Health, William D. Hacker. Read the entire press release at....
Kentucky Department for Public Health

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DPH Urges Kentuckians to Use Caution During Extreme Heat

With temperatures hovering into the 90s across the commonwealth, the Department for Public Health advises Kentuckians to be mindful of the dangers sweltering heat can bring.

“It’s important to follow some standard safety guidelines when temperatures begin increasing to the levels we are experiencing now,” said William Hacker, M.D, acting undersecretary for health and public health commissioner for the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. “Though we tend to associate summer with sports, activity and spending time outdoors, there are some dangers we need to be aware of once the thermometer starts to rise.”

The current heat wave calls for temperatures of 90 degrees or more, along with ozone levels that can be hazardous to citizens. Most at risk are young children, the elderly and people with health problems such as asthma - all of whom are susceptible to heat-related illnesses.

By taking the following precautions, citizens can remain safe and comfortable during the hot days of summer.

· Drink plenty of fluid. Increase your normal fluid intake regardless of your activity level. You will need to drink more fluids than your thirst level indicates. This is especially true for people 65 years of age and older who often have a decreased ability to respond to external temperature changes. In addition, avoid drinking beverages containing alcohol, because they will actually cause you to lose more fluid.

· Wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen. Choose lightweight, light colored, loose fitting clothing. In the hot sun, wear a wide-brimmed hat that will provide shade and keep the head cool. Sunscreen should be SPF 15 or greater and applied 30 minutes before going out into the sun.

· Stay cool indoors. The most efficient way to beat the heat is to stay in an air-conditioned area. If you do not have an air conditioner, consider visiting a mall or public library.

· Schedule outdoor activities carefully. If you must be out in the heat, try to plan your activities so that you are outdoors either before noon or in the evening. Rest periodically so your body’s thermostat will have a chance to recover.

· Use a buddy system. When working in the heat, monitor the condition of your co-workers and have someone do the same for you. Heat-induced illness can cause a person to become confused or lose consciousness.

· Monitor those at high risk. Those at greatest risk of heat-related illness include:

· Infants and children up to 4 years of age
· People 65 years of age or older
· People who are overweight
· People who overexert during work or exercise
· People who are ill or on certain medications for blood pressure or diuretics

“It’s also just as important to remember to use common sense,” added Hacker. “Do not leave infants, children or pets in a parked car. Also, don’t forget to give your pet plenty of fresh water and provide shade and a place to get cool.”

The preceding was a press release from Clay County native and current Commissioner, Kentucky Department for Public Health, William D. Hacker. Read the entire press release at....
Kentucky Department for Public Health

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TB Prevention and Control Program to Have Seminar
DPH Reaches Out to Stakeholders Across the State for TB Education

The Kentucky Tuberculosis Control Program, a part of the Department for Public Health, is planning its 11th Annual Kentucky Tuberculosis Management Seminar, focusing on TB surveillance and management as well as concerns regarding prevention and control.

The seminar will be Sept. 20-22 at the Galt House in Louisville. All health care providers, nursing home and long-term care facility administrators, jailers and others with an interest in prevention and management of this communicable disease are encouraged to attend.

Registration is required for the seminar at a cost of $25, and continuing education contact hours will be offered. Registration is available via the TRAIN network at ky.train.org.

"This is a great mechanism to keep stakeholders updated on tuberculosis news and developments," said Melissa D. Hopkins, social work consultant/health planner for TB Prevention and Control. "The annual seminar gives us a chance to let more health care providers know the status of the disease in the state and across the nation. The seminar also provides an opportunity to update clinicians on current best practices for identification and treatment of tuberculosis, as well as other pertinent topics like combating racial health disparities and understanding immigration policies as they pertain to public health."

David Ashkin, M.D., director of the A.G. Holley Tuberculosis Hospital in Florida, will be the keynote speaker at the seminar. A.G. Holley is the last of the original American sanatoriums that continues to be dedicated to tuberculosis.

Speakers from DPH include Kentucky TB Control Program Manager Linda Jackson, Communicable Disease Branch Manager Robert Brawley, M.D.; and Division Director of Epidemiology and Health Planning Kraig Humbaugh, M.D. Several health care providers and public health officials will also address conference attendees on a variety of topics.

The TB program is authorized by statute to coordinate TB control activities in the state. These activities are designed to render and maintain as non-infectious all individuals who have TB disease; to ensure non-infected people do not become infected; and to ensure individuals who are infected but who do not have TB disease remain non-infectious.

The event is not limited to Kentucky health care providers. Interested health care providers and others located outside Kentucky are welcome to attend the seminar, one of only two held annually in states that are a part of the Southeastern National Tuberculosis Center.

The preceding was a press release from Clay County native and current Commissioner, Kentucky Department for Public Health, William D. Hacker. Read the entire press release at....
Kentucky Department for Public Health

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Office of Inspector General Levies $1.4 Million in Fines Against Oakwood

The Cabinet for Health and Family Services' Office of Inspector General (OIG) has served notice to Oakwood of nearly $1.4 million in fines to date for uncorrected regulatory violations.

"Ensuring the health and safety of the residents at Oakwood remains our top concern," said CHFS Secretary Mark D. Birdwhistell. "Under state law, fines are used to push facilities to correct serious issues that could endanger the safety of residents. The Cabinet will continue to hold Oakwood accountable until conditions at the facility improve."

The facility was notified that the fines to date related to 12 Type A citations that have not been corrected. Penalties will continue until the violations have been corrected and the facility will receive future notice of fines levied for other Type A citations. The fines are assessed on a per Type A citation basis. As provided for in state law, the OIG triples the usual $5,000 fine per Type A citation to $15,000 if the facility has received a citation during the previous year for violation of the same regulation. In addition, CHFS is required to assess a civil penalty of $500 per day for each day that the situation underlying a Type A continues uncorrected beyond the date specified in the citation for correction.

The facility has 20 days to determine whether it will appeal the fines. As part of the appeal process, the facility may seek to lessen the fines or negotiate a payment structure. Liberty Healthcare is not responsible for payment. By law, a portion of the fines paid for Type A citations go to the Kentucky Board of Nursing's Incentive Scholarship Fund.

The preceding was a press release from Clay County native and current Commissioner, Kentucky Department for Public Health, William D. Hacker. Read the entire press release at....
Kentucky Department for Public Health

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Governor Fletcher Authorizes Tamiflu Stockpile to Protect Kentuckians
Medicines Would Aid Response to Flu Pandemic

Governor Ernie Fletcher has authorized the Department for Public Health (DPH) to order a stockpile of antiviral drugs to help protect Kentuckians in the event of an influenza pandemic.

"It is vital that we prepare now to protect Kentuckians in the event of an influenza pandemic," said Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Mark D. Birdwhistell. "History demonstrates the devastating toll that such pandemics can have. Because these antiviral drugs can help us prevent or lessen the severe illness associated with pandemics, we must take the federal government's recommendation to build this stockpile."

Kentucky has asked the federal government to reserve the full 432,381 courses of antivirals recommended to the state by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In addition, the CDC has committed to having 613,703 courses of antivirals earmarked for Kentucky in the federal stockpile by the end of 2007. The total of 1,046,084 courses will be enough to cover 25 percent of the state's population.

"We are proceeding with the diligence Kentuckians deserve in our preparations for a possible influenza pandemic," said William D. Hacker, M.D., DPH commissioner and acting undersecretary for health. "This stockpile will be a key asset to our response in the event of a pandemic."

The state will work with the federal government over the next six months to develop a purchase plan for the drugs Tamiflu and Relenza, available to states at a 25 percent discount. The estimated cost to the state will be $6 million. The recommendation to cover 25 percent of the population comes from estimates of previous illness rates during pandemics.

Governor Fletcher hosted a state summit on pandemic flu planning with top federal health officials earlier this year in Frankfort. Kentucky's local health departments followed that effort with a series of 50 summits aimed at local planning covering all 120 counties.

According to the federal Department for Health and Human Services, pandemic flu is virulent flu that causes a global outbreak, or pandemic, of serious illness. Although currently there is no circulating pandemic flu strain, this step will help prepare the state for a possible flu pandemic. More information on pandemic flu readiness is available at:

www.chfs.ky.gov/dph/epi/preparedness/pandemicinfluenza.htm

www.pandemicflu.gov.

The preceding was a press release from Clay County native and current Commissioner, Kentucky Department for Public Health, William D. Hacker. Read the entire press release at....
Kentucky Department for Public Health

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Fall Fling to benefit child victims of sexual abuse

The Children's Advocacy Center of the Bluegrass will hold its ninth annual Fall Fling Sept. 23 at Donamire Farm on Old Frankfort Pike in Fayette County from 6-11 p.m. University of Kentucky Women's Basketball Coach Mickie DeMoss is the honorary chairperson for the event.

The Fall Fling is the center's main fundraiser. This year's event features a raffle for a 2007 Saturn SKY sponsored by Quantrell Auto Group. Fling patrons also will enjoy dinner provided by South Van Events and dancing to the sounds of Subject.

Live and silent auctions offer guests the chance to bid on prizes including three-nights' stay at a Greenbriar Cottage; a week's stay at a Lake Tahoe condominium; a Chip Gannasi VIP racing package; Commonwealth Stadium corporate box seats; and lower-arena UK men's basketball season tickets. Tickets to the Fall Fling are $100 per person.

Proceeds from the Fall Fling support the work of the child advocacy center, a critical source of support, assistance, referrals and vital resources for child victims of sexual abuse in Central Kentucky. It is one of 15 fifteen regional centers designated to provide services and funded in part by the state Cabinet for Health and Family Services.

Sherri Stover, program administrator for the Cabinet's Division of Child Abuse and Domestic Violence Services, said one in three girls and one in four boys are sexually abused before age 18. In nine out of 10 cases, children know their abusers.

"Children's advocacy centers are a heartbreaking necessity that offer compassion and sensitivity to child victims of abuse," Stover said.

Kelly Roberts, executive director of the Bluegrass child advocacy center, said the annual Fall Fling traditionally enjoys outstanding local participation. " We're grateful for the incredible community support we've always received," Roberts said. "We hope even more area businesses and residents will attend and support the Fall Fling this year to help us sustain and expand services to children in crisis."

The event's platinum sponsor is 84 Lumber. Gold sponsors are Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Johnson Controls and the UK Chandler Medical Center.

For more information about the Children's Advocacy Center of the Bluegrass, visit the center's Web site at



For more information about the Fall Fling or to purchase event tickets and chances on the car raffle, call [phone].

The preceding was a press release from Clay County native and current Commissioner, Kentucky Department for Public Health, William D. Hacker. Read the entire press release at....
Kentucky Department for Public Health

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Toys Recalled Due to Lead Content
Items Distributed at Local Libraries to Be Returned to Distributor

The Kentucky Departments for Public Health and Libraries and Archives have learned that 14 public libraries in the state have distributed numerous children’s toys containing excessive levels of lead, a health threat to young children if significant levels enter the bloodstream. The toys, bendable cats and dogs, were given away to children throughout Kentucky as part of various libraries’ summer reading programs. A recall was recommended by the product distributor following a test by the Indiana State Department of Health that indicated the toys’ lead content to be in excess of the maximum allowable by current federal regulations.

“We are working closely with the Department for Libraries and Archives to ensure this situation is mitigated,” said William Hacker, M.D., CHFS’ acting undersecretary for health and public health commissioner. “The 14 libraries that distributed the toys have been contacted and families who received the toys will be notified. All toys will be recalled.”

In total, 324 toy packages containing 12 toys each were distributed. Kentucky is one of 36 states participating in this year’s summer reading program which will have to recall the toys that were manufactured in China. Libraries that distributed the toys include Laurel County Library; Lexington Public Library; and Jackson County Public Library. Libraries and Archives is recommending these libraries post signs to notify patrons of the recall. DPH will assist with the notification and offer guidance about the dangers of childhood lead exposure, one of the most significant health risks for young children.

“Recalled toys should be taken away from children and returned to the nearest public library,” said Justin Carey, program coordinator for DPH’s Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program.

Chronic exposure leading to an elevated blood lead level in children can cause numerous health problems for young children, including hearing loss, and liver and kidney damage. Such developmental problems can have a lasting impact in terms of performance in school and an overall impact on quality of life. According to DPH, the hazard category that accounts for the greatest number of recalled items in the past year is excessive lead content. Children can be exposed to lead when they put one of the toys in their mouths or touch the toy and place their hands in their mouths.

For more information on childhood lead poisoning prevention, please contact the Kentucky Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program at [phone] or visit

www.putthelidonlead.org

For general information about lead poisoning or testing your home for lead hazards, contact the National Lead Information Center at (800) 424-LEAD (5323), or visit

www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead

The preceding was a press release from Clay County native and current Commissioner, Kentucky Department for Public Health, William D. Hacker. Read the entire press release at....
Kentucky Department for Public Health

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More Kentucky Cities are Kicking Butt, taking personal freedoms

A growing list of communities around the commonwealth is saying no to cigarettes and secondhand smoke exposure, enacting smoke-free policies in public areas and businesses as a way to better protect the health and welfare of employees and patrons. To date, Lexington, Louisville, Morehead, Georgetown, Frankfort, Daviess County, Letcher County and Kentucky state government have adopted policies that prohibit smoking inside buildings, public facilities and, in some instances, on the outside campuses of facilities and public sidewalks. The cities of Ashland and Elizabethtown are in the process of adopting similar smoke-free policies in their communities.

“We commend local governments for taking this bold step toward improving the health status of Kentuckians,” said Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Mark D. Birdwhistell. “Exposure to secondhand smoke poses a very real and serious threat to a person’s lungs and cardiovascular health. We need to do everything we can to reduce the amount of secondhand smoke exposure.”

CHFS supports smoke-free policies because they’re considered a crucial step in reducing the amount of exposure to secondhand smoke and reducing smoking rates. Last month the United States Surgeon General issued a report that concluded exposure to even small amounts of secondhand smoke poses a risk to a person’s health. According to the Kentucky Department for Public Health, tobacco use accounts for almost 7,700 deaths a year in Kentucky and 400,000 deaths nationwide. Kentucky has the highest smoking rate in the country and the second highest prevalence of pregnant women who smoke.

“We can’t force people to quit smoking, but we can put restrictions on where people are allowed to smoke. These actions not only lessen the amount of secondhand smoke in our environment, but we believe they also cause people to smoke less and encourage them to quit,” said Irene Centers, program manager for the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Program. “We’re extremely pleased to see so many of our communities joining the smoke-free movement.”

Smoke free ordinances have proven successful across the United States, where cities like Los Angeles and New York have been smoke-free for several years. Some nations, including Ireland and Italy, also have gone entirely smoke-free.

“Opponents of smoke-free ordinances say smoking is a personal right. However, I would suggest to those elected officials contemplating similar legislation to consider – rather than a rights issue – it is a health issue,” said Kathy Carter, a Frankfort city commissioner. “I applaud the cities that took the initiative to go smoke-free and encourage others to follow their lead. Let’s make Kentucky a smoke-free state.”

State government buildings went smoke-free on Aug. 1. Additional prevention and cessation programs designed to encourage public employee wellness will continue. The general public can get assistance to quit smoking by calling Kentucky’s Tobacco Quit Line. For help, call toll free at (800)-QUITNOW or contact the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Specialist in your local health department.

The preceding was a press release from Clay County native and current Commissioner, Kentucky Department for Public Health, William D. Hacker. Read the entire press release at....
Kentucky Department for Public Health

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Well-known National Suicide Hotline to Shut Down

The Kentucky Department for Mental Health and Mental Retardation Services has learned that the well-known national suicide prevention hotline, 1-800-SUICIDE, is scheduled to go out of service within the next week.

“The entire suicide prevention community is working diligently to ensure that every person calling for help during a suicidal crisis is answered. The American Association of Suicidology is working closely with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and our sister organizations to accomplish this goal,” said Amy Kulp, deputy director of AAS.

Help is available and immediately accessible through 1-800-273-TALK, which provides suicide intervention. All participating organizations are certified and accredited local crisis centers so that callers can continue to receive counseling or emergency services close to home.

”Counselors and other mental health professionals need to be aware of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline so those in need are able to reach immediate counseling services, “said Jason H. Padgett, the state’s suicide prevention program administrator. “At this time, several organizations are working to ease the transition of calls to 1-800-273-TALK and to ensure callers in distress have immediate access to competent crisis services.”

For more information, visit the Lifeline organization’s Web site at www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org. All calls to the Lifeline are private and confidential.

The preceding was a press release from Clay County native and current Commissioner, Kentucky Department for Public Health, William D. Hacker. Read the entire press release at....
Kentucky Department for Public Health

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Governor Ernie Fletcher has proclaimed September Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month in Kentucky

Governor Ernie Fletcher has proclaimed September Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month in Kentucky, with many events planned statewide to educate and inform Kentuckians about the impact of suicide on the commonwealth.

“Kentucky has the 12th highest rate of suicide in the nation,” said Governor Fletcher. “The impact of suicide on our citizens – both victims and survivors – is tragic. Learning to talk openly and honestly about suicide and educating ourselves about prevention can preserve our state’s future and ensure good mental health for all of our citizens.”

Many events will take place during National Suicide Prevention Week, September 10-16. The observance was designed to raise awareness about the dangers of suicide and to increase prevention efforts across the nation. Events are planned to inform Kentuckians about the prevalence of suicide, educate about prevention, and reduce suicide rates in the state.

“Awareness and knowledge are the most powerful tools we have in curbing suicide rates,” said Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Mark D. Birdwhistell. “I want to encourage more Kentuckians to educate themselves about suicide and get involved in prevention efforts. Far too many Kentuckians have fallen victim or lost a loved one to this tragedy.”

According to the Department for Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an average of 502 suicide deaths have occurred in the state per year since 1981. In 2003, suicide deaths outnumbered homicide deaths 3 to 1. In Kentucky, suicide is the second leading cause of death for people age 15 to 34; third for people age 10 to 14; and fourth for those age 35 to 54.

"Experts believe most suicidal individuals do not want to die, they just want to end the pain they are experiencing,” said Jason Padgett, the state’s suicide prevention coordinator. “According to the American Association of Suicidology, when suicidal intent or risk is detected early, lives can be saved,”

Warning signs a person may be considering suicide include when someone:

· Threatens to hurt or kill him/herself, or talks of wanting to hurt or kill him/herself

· Looks for ways to kill him/herself by seeking access to firearms, available pills or other means

· Talks or writes about death, dying or suicide, when these actions are out of the ordinary for the person

· Exhibits hopelessness, rage, uncontrolled anger or seeks revenge

· Acts reckless or engages in risky activities, seemingly without thinking

· Feels trapped, like there’s no way out

· Increases alcohol or drug use

· Withdraws from friends, family and society

· Exhibits anxiety or agitation

· Is unable to sleep or sleeps all the time

· Experiences dramatic mood changes

· Says there is no reason for living; no sense of purpose in life

If someone exhibits these signs, he or she needs immediate help. A concerned friend or family member can take action by contacting a mental health professional or by calling 800-273-TALK (8255) for a referral. For more information on suicide prevention, visit the Kentucky Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation’s Web site at mhmr.ky.gov/mhsas/kspg.asp; or contact Jason Padgett at [phone] or [e-mail].

The preceding was a press release from Clay County native and current Commissioner, Kentucky Department for Public Health, William D. Hacker. Read the entire press release at....
Kentucky Department for Public Health

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September is Food Safety Education Month

Governor Ernie Fletcher has proclaimed the month of September as Food Safety Education Month in Kentucky.

Using the theme, “Don’t Compromise – Clean and Sanitize,” the Food Safety Branch in the Department for Public Health, the Kentucky Grocers Association, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Department of Agriculture invite the public to participate in several events that focus on procedures necessary for proper cleaning and sanitizing.

“Americans are aware of food safety now more than ever before,” said Christine Atkinson, manager of Kentucky’s Food Safety Branch.

Through National Food Safety Education Month, Atkinson’s department has the opportunity to highlight what state, local and industry partners are doing to educate employees and customers on proper food safety procedures. During September, state and local health departments, food service operations and retail markets will conduct training activities for restaurant and food industry professionals, as well as communicate the importance of food safety to the public. Presently, 48 counties in Kentucky have enacted local ordinances requiring restaurant food handler and/or manager training and certification.

“Training Kentucky’s food professionals to prepare and handle food safely is a top priority for our organization and the restaurant and food industry,” said Atkinson. “We must also remember that food safety is equally important at home.”

The preceding was a press release from Clay County native and current Commissioner, Kentucky Department for Public Health, William D. Hacker. Read the entire press release at....
Kentucky Department for Public Health

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Clay County Registered Sanitarians Get Help Tracking Continuing Ed Hours

Kentucky’s Department for Public Health has announced a new Web site to improve information access for the state’s 600-plus environmental health professionals. Thanks to the application of Web technology, sanitarians (commonly known as environmental health specialists) can track their course work and continuing education hours online from any Internet access point. This new system will track up to the required 10 contact hours each year.

“Keeping with Governor Fletcher’s commitment to improve efficiency in state government, we have developed a new Web process to allow all registered sanitarians to track course work online,” said Guy Delius, secretary of the registered sanitarian examining committee. “We’ve developed what we feel is a very user-friendly, interactive Web site that will benefit both sanitarians as well as the oversight committee. All that is needed to access your information is Internet access and the member’s registration number.”

The registered sanitarian committee worked cooperatively with the cabinet’s information technology staff to produce the new Web site.

“It’s great to see collaboration between public health and information technology,” said William Hacker, M.D., acting undersecretary for health and public health commissioner. ”By pooling our in-house resources, we have been able to dramatically improve a system that before had been time-consuming. There will no longer be delays for registered sanitarians pursuing continuing education hours.”

Anyone who carries out environmental public health activities for the state of Kentucky or local county government needs to be registered as a sanitarian. Kentucky registered sanitarians are required by statute to complete continuing education courses or specific training to keep up with changing regulations, compliance standards and trends in the field on an annual basis.

Kentucky registered sanitarians help ensure the health and safety of the state’s citizens by monitoring restaurants, supermarkets, food processors, milk producers, hotels, motels, schools, boarding homes, youth camps, new home building, public swimming pools, lead paint content and radon gas exposure in homes, tattoo studios and many other environmental health aspects that could impact the public.

“Our public health sanitarians provide a safety net for our state’s most precious resource, our citizens,” said Delius. The registered sanitarian Web Site can be accessed at:
chfs.ky.gov/dph/sanitarians.htm.

The preceding was a press release from Clay County native and current Commissioner, Kentucky Department for Public Health, William D. Hacker. Read the entire press release at....
Kentucky Department for Public Health

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DPH Advises Consumers to Avoid Bagged Fresh Spinach
Advisory Linked to E. coli Outbreak in Kentucky, Several States

The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is recommending that consumers avoid the consumption of bagged fresh spinach as a safety measure to avoid possible E. coli infection. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Friday issued an alert about an outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 in multiple states that may be associated with the consumption of bagged fresh spinach. DPH has been notified that one of the cases suspected to be part of this outbreak involves a female teenage resident of Paducah. She is currently hospitalized in Tennessee.

Three additional E. coli O157:H7 cases have been reported that fit the pattern of the outbreak. Two of the newly reported cases affect women in their late 50s from Oldham County; one of the women is hospitalized. The other case is in a school-age child from Jefferson County who is currently hospitalized. At this time, state health officials are working with staff at the local health departments in these counties to determine the source of the infections. Other states that have reported illnesses to date include: Connecticut, Idaho, Indiana, Michigan, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah and Wisconsin.

“E. coli infection is a serious threat to public health. As an added safety measure, we advise that consumers avoid all brands of packaged spinach for the time being,” said William Hacker, M.D., acting undersecretary for health for the Cabinet for Health and Family Services and public health commissioner. “Additionally, physicians should report all E. coli cases, if diagnosed, to the local health department.”

E. coli infections are relatively common, generally resulting in diarrhea, sometimes with bloody stools. Although most healthy adults can recover completely within a week, some people can develop a type of kidney failure known as Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). High-risk populations such as children, elderly and immune-compromised individuals are often more susceptible to illness. The condition can lead to serious kidney damage and even death.

Prior to the case involving the western Kentucky resident, DPH data shows 12 reported E. coli cases in Kentucky in 2006 and 11 cases in 2005. These cases were not believed to be linked to packaged produce. To date, 50 cases of E. coli O157:H7 associated with this outbreak have been reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including eight cases of HUS, and one death.

“Many of the ‘bagged’ processed produce products are pre-washed by the manufacturer and should be safe for consumption without washing, as the marketing labels attest,” said Guy Delius, assistant director for the division of public health protection and safety. “Certainly a prudent step to further safety is to wash again at home. Other produce which is raw and not washed prior to consumer purchase should absolutely be washed thoroughly at home prior to consumption.”

Though bagged spinach is the suspected cause in the recent outbreak of E. coli O157:H7, there are several other possible sources of E. coli. To avoid infection, the CDC recommends that all ground beef and hamburger be thoroughly cooked and not to eat ground beef patties that are still pink in the middle; if served an under-cooked burger, ask for a new bun and plate; in the kitchen, keep raw meat separate from other foods and wash hands, counters and utensils with hot soapy water after they touch raw meat; never place cooked ground beef on a plate that held raw patties; wash meat thermometers in between tests of patties that require further cooking; drink only pasteurized milk, juice or cider; and wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, especially those that will not be cooked.

The CDC also advises that children under 5 years of age, immune-compromised people, and the elderly should avoid eating alfalfa sprouts until safety can be assured. Methods to decontaminate alfalfa seeds and sprouts are being investigated. It is also important to drink municipal water that has been treated with chlorine or other effective disinfectants and to avoid swallowing lake or pool water while swimming.

The FDA is working with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state and local agencies to determine the source of the outbreak and scope of the problem. At this time, the investigation is ongoing. KDPH and FDA will keep consumers informed of the investigation as more information becomes available.

If you believe you have experienced symptoms of illness after consumption of raw bagged spinach please consult your health care provider. If you have a question you may contact your local health department or the Food Safety Branch at [phone].

The preceding was a press release from Clay County native and current Commissioner, Kentucky Department for Public Health, William D. Hacker. Read the entire press release at....
Kentucky Department for Public Health

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DPH Continues to Investigate E. coli Outbreak
Two additional cases

The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) reported today two additional cases of E. coli O157:H7 have been confirmed by lab testing and are being reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in relation to an outbreak of the illness in 19 states.

The newly confirmed cases bring the total number of people in Kentucky with cases of E. coli potentially related to the national outbreak to six.

The two newly reported cases involve females in their 20s from Hopkins County and McCracken County. Both have received outpatient medical care.

A teenage McCracken County resident and a school-age child from Jefferson County who were hospitalized last week have been discharged from the treating hospitals. One of the Oldham County residents, a female in her late 50s, remains hospitalized. The other affected Oldham County female in her late 50s received outpatient medical care.

For updates on the E. coli outbreak in Kentucky visit the DPH Health Alerts Web site at healthalerts.ky.gov . Kentucky will report any additional cases to CDC daily by 1 p.m.; updates to the media will be available after that time each day. DPH will report all cases that meet the three criteria of CDC's case definition to be considered outbreak-related: occurring after Aug 1; lab confirmed E coli O157:H7; and matching genetic lab results.

At this time, DPH is recommending that consumers avoid the consumption of all fresh spinach and products that contain fresh spinach as a safety measure to avoid possible E. coli infection. This does not apply to frozen spinach products, or other fresh produce items.

“E. coli infection is a serious threat to public health. As an added safety measure, we advise that consumers avoid all brands of fresh spinach and products that contain spinach for the time being,” said William Hacker, M.D., acting undersecretary for health for the Cabinet for Health and Family Services and public health commissioner. “Additionally, physicians should report all E. coli cases, if diagnosed, to the local health department.”

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an alert last Friday about an outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 in multiple states that may be associated with the consumption of fresh spinach. State health officials are continuing to work with staff at the local health departments in counties with suspected cases to determine the source of the infections.

To date, 109 cases of illness due to E. coli infection have been reported to the CDC, including 16 cases of HUS and one death. Because illnesses continue to be reported, this is considered an ongoing investigation.

E. coli infections are relatively common, generally resulting in diarrhea, sometimes with bloody stools. Although most healthy adults can recover completely within a week, some people can develop a type of kidney failure known as Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). High-risk populations such as children, elderly and immune-compromised individuals are often more susceptible to illness. The condition can lead to serious kidney damage and even death.

Prior to the cases reported in the past week, DPH data shows 12 reported E. coli cases in Kentucky in 2006 and 11 cases in 2005. These cases were not believed to be linked to packaged produce.

Though spinach is potentially linked to the recent outbreak of E. coli O157:H7, there are several other possible sources of E. coli. To avoid infection, the CDC recommends that all ground beef and hamburger be thoroughly cooked and not to eat ground beef patties that are still pink in the middle; if served an under-cooked burger, ask for a new bun and plate; in the kitchen, keep raw meat separate from other foods and wash hands, counters and utensils with hot soapy water after they touch raw meat; never place cooked ground beef on a plate that held raw patties; wash meat thermometers in between tests of patties that require further cooking; drink only pasteurized milk, juice or cider; and wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, especially those that will not be cooked.

If you believe you have experienced symptoms of illness after consumption of raw spinach, please consult your health care provider. If you have a question you may contact your local health department or the DPH Food Safety Branch at [phone].

The preceding was a press release from Clay County native and current Commissioner, Kentucky Department for Public Health, William D. Hacker. Read the entire press release at....
Kentucky Department for Public Health