http://www.odh.ohio.gov Official news releases issued by the Ohio Department of Health\'s Office of Public Affairs. For questions pertaining to these documents, call (614) 644-8562. en-us Friday, 19 October 2012 http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/Ticks%20In%20Ohio%20Release%20101912.ashx 10/19/12 COLUMBUS - Hunters and outdoors enthusiasts should be aware of a relatively new tick in Ohio, the blacklegged “deer” tick, according to the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) in conjunction with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources' (ODNR) Division of Wildlife. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/Additional%20Facilities%20Being%20Contacted%207%20OH%20cases%20101612.ashx 10/16/12 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) is encouraging all health care providers to follow-up with patients who received any injectable products from New England Compounding Center (NECC)since May 2012. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided states with a list from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of all facilities that purchased NECC products during that time frame. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/Ohio%20Identifies%20Additional%20Meningitis%20Cases%20101112.ashx 10/11/12 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) has linked two additional cases of meningitis to steroid injections produced at New England Compounding Center. This brings the total number of cases to three in Ohio: a 65-year-old man from Hamilton County; a 39-year-old female from Morrow County; and a 40-year-old female from Crawford County. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/Resources%20Mobilized%20by%20ODH%20AOHC%20OPHA%2010%208%2012.ashx 10/8/12 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Ohio local health districts, including the Association of Ohio Health Commissioners (AOHC) and the Ohio Public Health Association (OPHA), are mobilizing community resources to ensure all patients of four healthcare facilities are doing okay after receiving epidural injections with a potentially contaminated steroid that may cause meningitis. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/Recall%20Expanded-%20One%20Ohio%20Case%2010%206%2012.ashx 10/6/12 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) today announced that a case of fungal meningitis in a 65-year-old man was likely caused by a tainted epidural steroid injection from New England Compounding Center in Framingham, Mass. This disease is not communicable and cannot be spread person to person. A county of residence is not being released to protect the man's identity. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/Epidural%20Steroid%20Linked%20to%20Meningitis.ashx 10/5/12 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) released today the names of healthcare facilities in the state that received a recalled epidural steroid injection. Local health departments and facilities have been working diligently to contact any patient who received the treatment which is most frequently used to treat back pain. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/State%20Health%20Department%20Receives%20National%20Recognition%20through%20ASTHO%20Award.ashx 9/18/12 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) was last week presented with the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) 2012 Vision Award at the annual meeting of the association in Austin, Texas. ODH was recognized for its work with the Ohio Perinatal Quality Collaborative (OPQC), a public/private partnership, in addressing preterm birth issues through its 39-Week Project. The project has resulted in an eight percent statewide increase in full-term deliveries and is credited for saving approximately $27 million in annual health care costs. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/83112%20First%20H3N2v%20associated%20death%20news%20release.ashx 8/31/12 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) today announced the first known H3N2v-associated death. The 61-year-old female Madison County resident passed away earlier this week. Testing at the Ohio Department of Health Laboratory confirmed that the individual had been infected with the H3N2v influenza virus. The patient had multiple other underlying medical conditions, but the influenza virus may have contributed to the death. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/1st%20Human%20WNV%20Death%202012.ashx 8/29/12 COLUMBUS - Ohio's first human death in a 2012 West Nile Virus (WNV) case was reported today by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), which also continues to see widespread WNV human infection. The 76-year-old Hamilton County man was hospitalized with encephalitis. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/8%2024%2012%20H3N2v%20news%20release.ashx 8/24/12 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Departments of Health (ODH) today announced additional confirmed cases of Influenza A H3N2v, bringing the total number of cases statewide to 98. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) points out that the virus does not spread easily from person#45;to#45;person but limited human#45;to#45;human infection has occurred. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/Influenza%20A%20H3N2v%20Confirmed%20Cases%20Map.ashx 8/24/12 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Departments of Health (ODH) today announced additional confirmed cases of Influenza A H3N2v, bringing the total number of cases statewide to 98. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) points out that the virus does not spread easily from person#45;to#45;person but limited human#45;to#45;human infection has occurred. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/2012%20ODH%20Fall%20Rabies%20Vaccine%20Baiting%20Press%20Release.ashx 8/20/12 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Departments of Health (ODH) and Natural Resources (ODNR), in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Wildlife Services program and local health departments (LHDs) will begin fall oral rabies vaccination (ORV) operations this month in 14 northeast and eastern Ohio counties. Weather permitting, baiting will begin Friday, August 24 and will cover 4,334 square miles of the state's northeastern and eastern border. Bait distribution should be complete within ten business days. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/2012OralRabiesVaccineMap.ashx 8/20/12 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Departments of Health (ODH) and Natural Resources (ODNR), in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Wildlife Services program and local health departments (LHDs) will begin fall oral rabies vaccination (ORV) operations this month in 14 northeast and eastern Ohio counties. Weather permitting, baiting will begin Friday, August 24 and will cover 4,334 square miles of the state's northeastern and eastern border. Bait distribution should be complete within ten business days. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/81412%20H3N2v%20news%20release.ashx 8/14/12 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) announced today additional confirmed cases of Influenza A H3N2v, bringing the total number of cases statewide to 54. Those with confirmed cases of H3N2v are between the ages of 6 months and 36 years old. To date, five of the confirmed cases in Ohio were hospitalized, but they have since been treated and released. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/81012%20H3N2v%20news%20release.ashx 8/10/12 COLUMBUS - Today the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) and the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) announced the launch of an outreach plan to increase awareness of H3N2v at county fairs. A representative from ODA and ODH, or a local designee such as the fair veterinarian or health commissioner, will visit every fair to make in-person contact with swine exhibitors and reinforce the importance of preventing the spread of flu. As part of that outreach, ODA has set guidance for fair boards. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/8812%20H3N2v%20Update%20News%20Release.ashx 8/8/12 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) today announced that 15 additional cases of Influenza A variant H3N2 have been confirmed in Ohio. There are currently 30 cases of H3N2v statewide; all individuals had direct contact with swine at fairs and no human-to-human passage of the virus has been confirmed. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/8812%20H3N2v%20Update%20News%20Release.ashx 8/6/12 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) today announced that 15 additional cases of Influenza A variant H3N2 have been confirmed in Ohio. There are currently 30 cases of H3N2v statewide; all individuals had direct contact with swine at fairs and no human-to-human passage of the virus has been confirmed. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/8%206%2012%20Additional%20H3N2v%20Cases%20Confirmed.ashx 8/6/12 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) today announced that additional cases of Influenza A variant H3N2 have been confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). There are currently 14 humans cases identified in Butler County, linked to swine exposure at the Butler County Fair; and one confirmed human case in Clark County, linked to swine exposure at the Ohio State Fair. Those with confirmed cases of H3N2v are between the ages of 3 and 36 years old, and to date, none of the confirmed cases have resulted in hospitalization. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/8312%20State%20Officials%20Continue%20Flu%20Surveillance%20and%20Prevention.ashx 8/3/12 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Departments of Agriculture (ODA) and Health (ODH), along with local health officials and representatives from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), continue to monitor influenza-like illness in animals and humans throughout the remainder of the Ohio State Fair as well as county fair season in Ohio, and today reminded Ohioans to exercise common sense health practices while around animals. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/nr080212.ashx 8/2/12 COLUMBUS - The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) today confirmed that nine of 10 suspected influenza cases in Butler County have tested positive for the H3N2v strain. The 10th case is still being tested. The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) and the Butler County Health Department are actively investigating human illnesses associated with the Butler County Fair. The strain matches the flu virus that recently infected four people with swine exposure at a county fair in Indiana. All individuals in Butler County’s investigation also had direct contact with swine but none are currently hospitalized. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/2012%20WNV%201st%20human%20case.ashx 8/1/12 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Departments of Health (ODH) and Agriculture (ODA), along with the Butler County Health Department are actively investigating human illnesses associated with the Butler County Fair. Preliminary laboratory results on ten samples indicate similarities to the influenza virus, (H3N2)v. All individuals in Butler County#39;s investigation had direct contact with swine, however the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have not yet confirmed any of the cases. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/2012%20WNV%201st%20human%20case.ashx 7/27/12 COLUMBUS - Ohio's first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in 2012 was confirmed today by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), which also reported a sharp increase in the number of WNV-positive mosquitoes. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/BMI%20Screening%20Report%20Press%20Release.ashx 7/25/12 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) today released the first report on Body Mass Index (BMI) screenings of Ohio's school children. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/news/ODH%20partnering%20with%20WebMD.ashx 6/21/12 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) today announced it has teamed with Medscape of WebMD, a leading online-source of information for healthcare professionals, to communicate urgent public health messages to its physicians, pharmacists and nurse members in Ohio. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/~/media/ODH/ASSETS/Files/web%20team/features/TwoHumanIllnessesinOhioLinkedtoSalmonellainRecalledDogFood.ashx 5/4/12 COLUMBUS - Following the announcement of human illnesses linked to the Salmonella Infantis outbreak associated with dog food, the Ohio Department of Health and the Ohio Department of Agriculture are encouraging safe handling of pet food. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/1E49D5266E65416C99B79FA0CB6B89F9/Ohio%20to%20Expand%20PCMH.pdf 1/18/12 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH), in partnership with the Governor's Office of Health Transformation (OHT), today announced that Ohio will invest $1 million to assist primary health-care practices around the state transition to a patient-centered medical home (PCMH) model of care and expand the number of PCMH practice sites in Ohio. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/64C58895977C4D5BAA13533A6DD59E23/Youth%20Risk%20press%20release.pdf 11/15/11 COLUMBUS - Results of the newest Youth Risk Behavioral Survey (YRBS) released today by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) show that Ohio's teens know it is important to stay safe on the road, but are still not making the best choices when it comes to food and physical activity. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/CC13928E232546DAAA752FA23EF5FC61/Rabies%20vaccinations%20(2).pdf 10/21/11 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) wants to remind Ohioans that rabies in wildlife continues to pose a risk to pets and people. Rabies is almost always 100 percent fatal once a person or animal begins to show symptoms. Protecting pets by keeping them current on their rabies vaccine is an important buffer between wildlife rabies and human exposure. Indoor animals should also be vaccinated as rabid bats are frequently discovered by pets in the home. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/779BF14EFCD442D59E051A7E8E06576C/Workplace%20BF%20Award%20Release.pdf 09/2/11 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) recently awarded its new Healthy Ohio Breastfeeding Friendly Employer Award to 18 businesses throughout Ohio. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/A454C47B15C74FCB8ADF4BD7888C0895/Final%20Executive%20Summary%20Smoke%20free%20Impact%209-1-11.pdf 09/1/11 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Departments of Health (ODH) released a collection of five reports today that analyzed the health, behavioral and economic impacts of the statewide smoking ban. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/A2390E128D7548059E134ECD5C7D89A7/Smoke%20Free%20Release%209-1-11.pdf 09/1/11 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Departments of Health (ODH) released a collection of five reports today that analyzed the health, behavioral and economic impacts of the statewide smoking ban. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/FD94D331FDC8498F84BC9221FE14AA4E/2011%20ODH%20fall%20rabies%20baiting.pdf 08/31/11 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Departments of Health (ODH) and Natural Resources (ODNR), in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services program and local health departments (LHDs), will begin fall oral rabies vaccination (ORV) operations Tuesday, Sept. 6 in 14 northeast and eastern Ohio counties. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/2F55462C77EE480AACA06F8E6F20616E/2011fallrabiesbaitmap.pdf 08/31/11 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Departments of Health (ODH) and Natural Resources (ODNR), in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services program and local health departments (LHDs), will begin fall oral rabies vaccination (ORV) operations Tuesday, Sept. 6 in 14 northeast and eastern Ohio counties. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/FFF985B430F6474BA48C2C45963F2C68/NR%20083011b.pdf 08/30/11 COLUMBUS - Smoke-Free Workplace Act Impact on Ohioans. A look at the health an economic effects of the smoking ban. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/AA0BECC2C1F1441C996C14C364FF0AF6/Human%20West%20Nile%20Virus%20press%20release.pdf 08/30/11 COLUMBUS - Ohio's first two clinical human cases of West Nile virus (WNV) in 2011 were confirmed today by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH). http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/AA0BECC2C1F1441C996C14C364FF0AF6/Human%20West%20Nile%20Virus%20press%20release.pdf 08/30/11 COLUMBUS - Ohio's first two clinical human cases of West Nile virus (WNV) in 2011 were confirmed today by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH). http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/D23AEE69E8E749D8B6BFF83BCDB2F794/WNV11.pdf 06/23/11 COLUMBUS - Ohioans reminded to take steps to prevent mosquito bites and to remove areas of standing water. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/34EAE7002AEA40C6AFB66966705E2821/Salmonella%20Altona%20Investigation%20Announcement%2006-09-2011%201100.pdf 06/9/11 COLUMBUS - Departments of Health and Agriculture advise Ohioans to take precautions when handling live poultry. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/E2DD5DFD1D284DAA85F1CBE2D76CFB64/NR060111.pdf 06/1/11 COLUMBUS - Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Director Ted Wymyslo M.D. today accepted a check for $2.1 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The funds will be used by ODH and its partners to identify and properly remediate lead hazards in homes in 36 counties. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/ADBD1969A77A4DD7AE319584B2934BD5/NR052711.pdf 5/27/11 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) will host a press conference to announce the receipt of $2.1 million in lead hazard control funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Officials from ODH, HUD and local community action agencies will be available to discuss how the grant money will help Ohio families with children who have been lead poisoned or are at-risk of becoming lead poisoned. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/6AEA1038E90B4AA084137BF0AA48DDEC/2011%20spring%20rabies%20baiting%20release.pdf 4/25/11 COLUMBUS - The Ohio departments of Health (ODH) and Natural Resources (ODNR), in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services (USDA WS) program and local health departments (LHDs) will begin spring oral rabies vaccination (ORV) operations Monday, May 2, in five northeastern Ohio counties. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/F55B021D8669471B9FFF5DE02570BCAF/NR042011.pdf 4/20/11 COLUMBUS - An Ohio Department of Health (ODH) study released today estimates that Ohio's H1N1 vaccination efforts prevented 64 deaths, 1,400 hospitalizations and 310,402 cases of influenza during the 2009 H1N1 pandemic. The study also estimates that Ohio's vaccination efforts saved the state $8.4 million in H1N1 related hospitalization costs. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/7CB5739ACB3C4E57ACEBB9FCEC616EB1/NR041511.pdf 4/15/11 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) today is reminding Ohio food service operators to be suspicious of individuals calling or entering establishments claiming to be state health inspectors. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/C0E8514C56654193A6BECD4189EE20D7/NR033011.pdf 3/30/11 COLUMBUS - The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute today released the second year of the County Health Rankings, a comprehensive report that ranks the overall health of nearly every county in all 50 states by using a standard way to measure how healthy people are and how long they live. The Rankings will help everyone in Ohio better understand that where people live, learn, work and play influences their overall health. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/A23B3F64BF644DE9A3E320B23C9372E6/NR030211.pdf 3/2/11 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department Health (ODH) today released the 2004-2010 Third Grade BMI Report, a comprehensive account of state and county level overweight and obesity prevalence among Ohio#39;s third graders. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/74C1CD220CB444209A6464BCD70876EF/nr020411.pdf 2/4/11 COLUMBUS - Today the Ohio Emergency Management Agency (Ohio EMA) and the Ohio Department of Health's (OHO) Office of Health Preparedness announced a new Web site. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/A721D0D1A1EC4469A2F9E5E122EBDE06/NR020111.pdf 2/1/11 COLUMBUS - The Office of Healthy Ohio (OHO) will recognize 33 Ohio businesses for healthy worksite practices. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/CD584D3142084093A6DEC69C9C41A04F/NR010511.pdf 1/5/11 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) today released the Ohio Bed Bug Workgroup report. Workgroup members from a diverse group of professional backgrounds and perspectives, including pest management, housing, government, and public health worked together to develop 10 recommendations which outline strategies that will assist future bed bug prevention and control efforts. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/53FFEE55B23C4439B46E6DB1EBB604B1/NR121710.pdf 12/17/10 COLUMBUS - Ohioans can now obtain certified birth certificates at local health departments across the state. The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) today announced an improvement in customer service for individuals wishing to purchase a certified copy of an Ohio birth record. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/F802F0D3C1E445F1833FAB807F56B7A2/NR111710.pdf 11/17/10 COLUMBUS - A decision out of the 10th District Court of Appeals this week upholds Ohio's Smoke Free Act requiring Zeno's of Victorian Village to abide by the smoking ban. The ruling supports the case against Zeno's filed by Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray and Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Director Alvin D. Jackson, M.D in August 2009. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/EDC59AA96F084125B841075ADC676E06/NR111610.pdf 11/16/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) urges all Ohioans ages 6 months and older to get a flu vaccine. The 2010-2011 flu season has begun and ODH is reporting low levels of influenza viruses circulating across the state. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/1F439846F0CB4911A394EE7F23B6B765/NR110910.pdf 11/9/10 COLUMBUS - Today the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) and the American Heart Association (AHA) presented a plan to reduce the rates of heart disease and stroke in Ohio. The Ohio Plan to Prevent Heart Disease and Stroke 2008-2012 is the result of efforts from the Ohio Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Council. The plan lays out broad goals and specific objectives that will aid in reducing the burden of heart disease and stroke for Ohioans. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/58C4C557AD844B86B3D41EB39EA32449/NR100110.pdf 10/1/10 COLUMBUS - Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today received the Ohio Prescription Drug Abuse Task Force's (OPDATF) final report, which includes 20 recommendations to the Governor and leaders of the General Assembly. This report outlines significant steps toward addressing the issue of prescription drug abuse on a statewide level. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/E570185E90794653B1871251D4D3A2CC/NR092310.pdf 9/24/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio General Assembly recently passed House Bill (HB) 102, making it possible for expectant parents to receive standardized, objective information about umbilical cord blood banking. The new law helps them to make informed decisions about whether to participate in an umbilical cord blood banking program. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/61CD298F44CE4C2B86D5838303892665/NR092110.pdf 9/21/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) announced today the launch of "Prescription for Prevention," an educational campaign to prevent unintentional prescription drug overdoses in all impacted populations across the state. The campaign has a special focus on Southern Ohio, where the highest levels of prescription drug abuse have been reported. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/A74903956A1D40FE9DD84BED25533602/NR091510.pdf 9/15/10 COLUMBUS - The United States Congress proclaimed September as National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. To commemorate the month, the Ohio Department of Health's (ODH) Office of Healthy Ohio is highlighting new content and resources as well as its current initiatives through its Web site, www.healthyohioprogram.org. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/B7E7C2006C104C6A8E2D249A5ED4EEFF/NR083010.pdf 8/30/10 COLUMBUS - As a result of approximately $1 million in federal stimulus funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) Communities Putting Prevention to Work grant, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) is funding a media campaign and an online cessation tool to raise awareness and assist tobacco users in the critical effort to stop tobacco use. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/ABA03631445B468A872AEAC89202FB03/NR082410.pdf 8/24/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Immunizations Program Assessment Feedback Incentives Exchange (AFIX) project will honor 30 Ohio medical provider offices for outstanding performance in attaining high immunization rates and for making significant improvements in immunization rates. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/8CC5486621B541A1B0DDD29F29887E3B/NR082310.pdf 8/23/10 COLUMBUS - Ohio's first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in 2010 was confirmed today by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), which also reported a sharp increase in the number of WNV-positive mosquitoes. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/1D9922A895BC4C189B39207AC42E69D0/NR082010.pdf 8/20/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio departments of Health (ODH) and Natural Resources (OHNR), in partnership with the U.S. Department of agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services program and local health departments (LHDs) will begin fall oral rabies vaccination (ORV) operations Tuesday, Aug. 24 in 14 northeast and eastern Ohio counties. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/583CD795212D42E19703E53827F463B9/NR073010.pdf 7/30/10 Celina, OH - Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today, joined by several state agency directors, announced both short- and long-term action plans to help restore Grand Lake St. Marys, Ohio's largest inland lake. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/8409D37E42F54DDEBCE8AAE215FB51C4/NR070110.pdf 7/01/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) today announced changes to the Ryan White program, which provides assistance to eligible Ohioans living with HIV/AIDS. The planned changes are being implemented because of a combination of decreasing resources and increasing enrollment, costs of health insurance premiums and medications. These changes will impact current and potential future clients, and are designed to maintain core services for those most in need, both financially and medically. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/039092118F704A3BADCEB02AE06EA4C5/NR063010.pdf 6/30/10 COLUMBUS - The Office of Healthy Ohio (OHO) is currently accepting applications for the 2010 Healthy Worksite Awards. All worksites, regardless of size, public, private, for-profit or non-profit are encouraged to apply. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/D0025D4D443042D6A19B86D044C07A20/NR062410.pdf 6/24/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Zoonotic Disease Program has confirmed the first evidence of West Nile virus (WNV) in Ohio in 2010 in a mosquito pool collected in Franklin County. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/6B080316E8DF44479655D0B468DF7D68/NR060110.pdf 6/1/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (OPDATF) today announced the availability of three new heirloom birth certificates available for purchase through the ODH office of vital statistics. Heirloom birth certificates can commemorate a recent birth, celebrate a special birthday or be passed along from generation to generation as a family keepsake. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/C3921D225602472890F6DC082AE7EF5D/NR051710.pdf 5/17/10 COLUMBUS - Today, the Ohio Prescription Drug Abuse Task Force (OPDATF) submitted a status report and recommendations as first steps toward addressing the issue of prescription drug abuse on a statewide level. This report includes recommendations agreed upon by the 34-member committee as immediate first steps in combating the growing problem in Ohio. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/7DBD555D367F4732B4F9505B53CB5551/NR051210.pdf 5/12/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) recently announced plans to award $105,202.80 in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act 2009 (ARRA) funding to Ohio hospitals who have plans to initiate or expand existing electronic laboratory reporting of infectious diseases, including healthcare-associated infections (HAI). http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/AFA7B83D81A74102BEF7EF98F36E0E01/NR041610.pdf 4/16/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) today announced that it is seeking Requests for Proposal for a certified minority business enterprise to develop and implement a comprehensive evaluation plan covering the physical activity, nutrition and tobacco-free programs implemented by ODH as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Communities Putting Prevention to Work grant. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/1E74884749204C0292BC61FB3CFD6054/NR040810.pdf 4/8/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) has announced plans to release $330,000 in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act 2009 (ARRA) funding to raise immunization rates among infants and toddlers, residing in Ohio's metropolitan areas. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/471A3B01DB4245DE875B434DEB354315/NR040610.pdf 4/6/10 COLUMBUS - Recommendations from Statewide Prescription Drug Overdose Action Group Complete. Recommendations to Serve as Foundation for Governor Ted Strickland's Drug Abuse Task Force http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/C6398A54C0E64DD79E1397E1EB170631/NR040110.pdf 4/1/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) is reminding Ohioans that the H1N1 vaccine, which is the best defense against the flu, is still available across the state at pharmacies, local health departments, and doctor's offices. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/A992FE5710E5445F8076770D849C87B2/NR031910.pdf 3/19/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) recently announced additional immunization requirements for Kindergarten and 7th grade students for the 2010-2011 school year. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/C70F446522514220A34E8213B77C1F4B/NR021710.pdf 2/17/10 COLUMBUS - The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute today released its 2009 County Health Rankings Report. The County Health Rankings are the first to rank the overall health of the counties in all 50 states - more than 3,000 total - by using a standard formula to measure how healthy people are and how long they live. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/44B3713CB7684133A9C5656B8A11DA7A/NR021610.pdf 2/16/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) will host a conference call to discuss the Robert Wood Johnson/University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute's 2009 County Health Rankings Report scheduled for release at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, February 17. The County Health Rankings are the first to rank the overall health of the counties in all 50 states - more than 3,000 total - by using a standard formula to measure how healthy people are and how long they live. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/23B47E337BFC4667AD1D31AA29232177/NR012510.pdf 2/10/10 COLUMBUS - The Office of Healthy Ohio (OHO) will recognize 22 Ohio businesses for healthy worksite practices. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/1E71998508204362996C3D3D5DAC47F2/NR012810.pdf 1/28/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) this week submitted orders for 8,000 doses of H1N1 flu vaccine to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/1457A460ED024EC491DF3950C9433F8A/NR012510.pdf 1/25/10 COLUMBUS - The Office of Healthy Ohio (OHO) will recognize 22 Ohio businesses for healthy worksite practices. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/95996C65273F4E59A01FC5CD54A8AFED/NR012110.pdf 1/21/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) this week submitted orders for 16,200 doses of H1N1 flu vaccine to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/93B479D5791F40D3B0A366728A3732F7/NR012010.pdf 1/20/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) released a new H1N1 Public Service Announcement today, featuring Ohio State University alumnus and two time Heisman Trophy winner, Archie Griffin. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/E167A0671F584383825FE07430692009/NR011910b.pdf 1/19/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) today released its first comprehensive report on the impact of heart disease on Ohioans. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/E167A0671F584383825FE07430692009/NR011910b.pdf 1/19/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) today released its first comprehensive report on the impact of heart disease on Ohioans. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/70468C7CA72047D691A77F3A47C00E70/NR011910.pdf 1/19/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) is pleased to announce its plans to release $164,049 in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act 2009 (ARRA) funding to Ohio hospitals or hospital systems who seek to initiate or expand existing electronic laboratory reporting of selected hospital-acquired infections (HAI) and other reportable infectious diseases. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/3F89802769204D41BECA5D2986B65F56/NR011510.pdf 1/15/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health's (ODH) H1N1 Informational Line will be closed effective 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 15, 2010 and remain closed on Monday, Jan. 18, 2010. The informational line will reopen on Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2010 at 8 a.m. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/E9FEF75591D044778B995FDADBFA0165/NR011210b.pdf 1/12/10 COLUMBUS - As part of National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW) from January 10-16, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), working with its local, state, and federal partners, is encouraging those who have not received their H1N1 vaccination to do so. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/09B8BE084224436D90DAA545C0E3F7E8/NR011210a.pdf 1/12/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) on Monday submitted orders for 25,000 doses of H1N1 flu vaccine to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/516EC063C16943CB8C2FA9BE6F9E7CD7/NR010410b.pdf 1/4/10 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) submitted orders for 288,000 doses of H1N1 flu vaccine to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) last week. The vaccine will be shipped directly to 638 enrolled medical providers, including physicians, federally qualified health centers, and clinics. Also included were local health departments, hospitals, pharmacies and state institutions. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/D9739CE965594A0DB30E601AC15CD127/NR010410.pdf 1/4/10 COLUMBUS - Helping Ohioans make more informed health care decisions, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) has launched the Ohio Hospital Compare Web site. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/44ED6057D87A49998AA3A5C5ACD30386/NR123009.pdf 12/30/09 COLUMBUS - The State of Ohio Joint Information Center (JIC) will be closed effective 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 31 and remain closed on Friday, January 1, 2010. The State JIC will reopen on Monday, January 4, 2010 at 8 a.m. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/2093525B048C4D28A4954A66DF58E75A/NR122909b.pdf 12/29/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health's (ODH) H1N1 Informational Line will be closed effective 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30 and remain closed on Thursday, Dec. 31 and Friday, Jan. 1, 2010.* The informational line will reopen on Monday, Jan. 4, 2010 at 8 a.m. *Original Release stated Monday, Jan. 1, 2010. Correct date is Friday, Jan. 1, 2010 http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/E8D80D5B36D54E34943942DAED09A60B/NR122909.pdf 12/29/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health' (ODH) H1N1 Informational Line will be closed effective 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30 and remain closed on Thursday, Dec. 31 and Monday, Jan. 1, 2010. The informational line will reopen on Monday, Jan. 4, 2010 at 8 a.m. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/A7483F8FFE504D91AB45019AA47D5FA0/NR122809.pdf 12/28/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) submitted orders for 172,400 doses of H1N1 flu vaccine to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) last week. The vaccine will be shipped directly to 305 enrolled medical providers, including local health districts, hospitals, federally qualified health centers, nursing homes, pharmacies and state institutional facilities. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/A2CB93A65C794230836CCB942B38CEED/NR122309.pdf 12/23/09 COLUMBUS - The State of Ohio Joint Information Center (JIC) will be closed effective 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 24 and remain closed on Christmas Day. The State JIC will reopen on Monday, Dec. 28, 2009 at 8 a.m. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/57508E80504E4ED7856363E1FFD803C4/NR122209b.pdf 12/22/09 COLUMBUS - Ohio Department of Health (ODH) officials held two conference calls on Monday with leaders of the African-American and Hispanic communities. The purpose of the calls was to educate them further about the H1N1 flu virus and to ask for their assistance in spreading the message about the importance of getting vaccinated. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/A176D38981184B63AE45CE8900569C47/NR122209a.pdf 12/22/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health's H1N1 Informational Hotline will be closed effective 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 23 and remained closed on Thursday, December 24 and Christmas Day. The informational hotline will reopen on Monday, December 28, 2009 at 8 a.m. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/D9A00722302A4F9A957C5EC81B6ED291/NR122109.pdf 12/21/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) submitted orders for 416,400 doses of H1N1 flu vaccine to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) last week. The vaccine will be shipped directly to 1,913 enrolled medical providers in 88 Ohio counties, including local health districts, hospitals, and pharmacies. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/6ACD77DD36464192A86F059AC7DE869F/NR121809.pdf 12/18/09 COLUMBUS - As Ohioans wrap up their holiday shopping, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) is urging parents to consider giving their children a special gift this holiday season: an H1N1 vaccine. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/AE88318B9925402683FF84C79A6944A0/NR121409.pdf 12/14/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) submitted orders for 574,200 doses of H1N1 flu vaccine to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) last week. The vaccine will be shipped directly to 1,200 enrolled medical providers in 88 Ohio counties, including colleges, universities, local health departments and pharmacies. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/050542C2FFE34E9AAC4941BDFD3A4977/NR120909.pdf 12/09/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) has announced an innovative public-private partnership with four large retail pharmacy chains to ensure sufficient antiviral medications are available to Ohioans this flu season. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/FB925C53579644A4A7E35F224327AD6C/NR120709.pdf 12/07/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) submitted an order for 372,900 doses of H1N1 flu vaccine to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Friday afternoon. The vaccine will be shipped directly to 936 local health departments, hospitals, family physicians, federally qualified health centers, pediatricians, OB/GYNs, internists and other enrolled medical providers in 88 Ohio counties. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/7B4B359269B8486892C1A324BE995550/NR120409.pdf 12/04/09 COLUMBUS - As part of the next phase of the Ohio Department of Health's (ODH) strategy to provide vaccine to Ohioans, ODH today told its partners that after a final week of focused efforts to reach high risk populations, it will expand H1N1 influenza vaccine eligibility to all Ohioans beginning December 14. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/E262DD8602534529866BDBB78F25F325/NR120209.pdf 12/02/09 COLUMBUS - College students are at high risk for H1N1 influenza and should be vaccinated against the virus, Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Director Alvin D. Jackson, M.D., said today. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/B05F98C45D8047338D4AAD76C8A5587A/NR113009b.pdf 11/30/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) reminds parents and health care providers that children younger than 10 should receive two doses of H1N1 flu vaccine in order to achieve optimal protection against pandemic flu. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/2C8C24D3DFA54F8F8360538AA0762A39/NR113009a.pdf 11/30/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) submitted an order for 259,800 doses of H1N1 flu vaccine to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Wednesday afternoon. The vaccine will be shipped directly to 511 local health departments, family physicians, federally qualified health centers, pediatricians, OB/GYNs, internists and children's hospitals in 88 Ohio counties. One non-pediatric hospital will also receive vaccine. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/1536D361B0F449D1A42E169CCABC1654/NR112409c.pdf 11/24/09 COLUMBUS - The State of Ohio Joint Public Information Center will be closed effective 5:00 p.m. Wednesday and all day Thanksgiving Day. The State JIC will reopen on Friday, November 27, 2009 at 8 a.m. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/A55A0361C05D43DD80F5D2E9C72FB1EC/NR112409b.pdf 11/24/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) recently joined two social networking sites in its continuing efforts to protect and improve the health of all Ohioans. With its Facebook and Twitter accounts, ODH aims to reach new audiences, disseminate important public health information and receive followers' feedback on items that matter to them. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/96E148266D044C5AB3B9F1DFD476ED02/NR112409a.pdf 11/24/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) recently was awarded $139,565.42 in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding for state surveyors to provide greater oversight in non-accredited Medicare-certified Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASCs). http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/37FB269318DE4E798B86693CD9F6D416/NR112309.pdf 11/23/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) submitted an order for 438,900 doses of H1N1 flu vaccine to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Friday afternoon. The vaccine will be shipped directly to 879 local health departments, family physicians, federally qualified health centers, hospitals, pediatricians and OB/GYNs in 88 Ohio counties. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/8B6D0DCCA9AB46E29C62928CCEAB9186/NR111609.pdf 11/16/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) submitted an order for 182,700 doses of H1N1 flu vaccine to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Friday afternoon. The vaccine will be shipped directly to 467 local health departments, pediatricians and OB/GYNs in 88 Ohio counties. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/D0F7C7EB341143F39889FF57E44E9792/NR111009b.pdf 11/10/09 COLUMBUS - The State of Ohio Joint Information Center has issued a correction to a draft news release mistakenly released earlier today. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/7544192351324505BF37F06F2CA926B5/NR111009.pdf 11/10/09 COLUMBUS - While pandemic H1N1 flu has had an unusually strong impact on teenagers and young adults, those at highest risk for complications from seasonal flu - including young children, pregnant women, people with chronic medical conditions and the elderly - should also remember the importance of protecting themselves against seasonal influenza. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/DAC1503D19784A9FA93C6AE949C19075/NR110209b.pdf 11/02/09 COLUMBUS - Ohioans seeking H1N1 vaccine may find themselves standing in long lines at clinics due to large amounts of people taking part in H1N1 clinics across the state. Ohio Department of Health Director Alvin D. Jackson, M.D., today urged Ohioans to be patient while standing in lines for H1N1 vaccination clinics and to bring items to help pass the time. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/F8252A710C8C4E4298AD7172824717E9/nr110209.pdf 11/02/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) submitted an order for 389,500 doses of H1N1 flu vaccine to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Friday afternoon. The vaccine will be shipped directly to 298 local health departments and hospitals in 88 Ohio counties. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/3B10449461114148AD20C8122CA6F031/nr102709.pdf 10/27/09 COLUMBUS - Parents can take common-sense steps to protect their children from exposure to flu while trick-or-treating this week, Ohio Department of Health Director Alvin D. Jackson, M.D. said today. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/27BCD2C1B6A14D7B86F7723FE5865CAC/NR102309.pdf 10/23/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) submitted an order for 160,100 doses of H1N1 flu vaccine to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Friday afternoon. A total of 160,100 doses will be shipped directly to 314 local health departments and hospitals in 88 Ohio counties. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/038E8984391D4001B8C509B505877C46/NR101909.pdf 10/19/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) submitted two H1N1 flu vaccine orders on Friday and Saturday to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). A total of 219,800 doses will be shipped directly to providers' offices around the state. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/47B02726A3EC41D397E33E2B50F88395/NR101409.pdf 10/14/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) has expanded its H1N1 call center hours. Until further notice, the ODH H1N1 toll-free information line - 1-866-800-1404 - will be staffed from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday to answer questions from the public about influenza and the vaccine. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/0B46F5E7DFDB4A668356332C8D592653/NR101009.pdf 10/10/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) today submitted an order for more than 152,000 doses of H1N1 flu vaccine to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/44B328E608C64007B985329EA0E603BC/NR100809b.pdf 10/08/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) today received and repackaged 61,500 doses of nasal-spray H1N1 flu vaccine to more than 100 local health departments and hospitals across the state. The vaccine - approved for use in healthy people 2 to 49 - is slated to arrive in communities Friday and will be used to vaccinate health care workers and EMS workers who provide direct patient care. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/49897149062F4D0C8AA3D3D28CF1817A/NR100809.pdf 10/08/09 COLUMBUS - Clarification of ODH's oct. 7 news release. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/5553609B7A774EBD8BC60C214217EFF4/nr100709.pdf 10/07/09 COLUMBUS - Ohio officials are working together to protect Ohioans from the H1N1 virus, Gov. Ted Strickland said today, as he briefed media on Ohio's efforts with Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Director Alvin D. Jackson, M.D., and other officials. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/3A984BF8A7A44ABE885A30A48EDC7EAD/NR100209.pdf 10/02/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) today ordered 61,500 doses of H1N1 vaccine from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/EA56B8D10C414272858A30DDFC42F33B/NR100109.pdf 10/01/09 COLUMBUS - Ohio's roadways are about to become safer for children. Effective Oct. 7, children younger than 8, unless they are at least 4 feet 9 inches tall, must use a booster seat. This new law - combined with existing law requiring children younger than 4 years and less than 40 pounds to use a child safety seat; and children 8 to 15 to use a safety seat or seat belt - will make traveling safer for Ohio's children, said Ohio Department of Health Director Alvin D. Jackson, M.D. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/0FCDF528F1F44F5AB2AFB5EF06EE2500/NR091809.pdf 09/18/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH), Health Assessment Section is releasing the final Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry public health assessment document for the Lammers Barrel Factory Superfund site, in Beavercreek, Greene County. The ODH- produced report reviews available environmental data and makes conclusions and recommendations about potential public health implications posed by the site. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/C0E6976DB700421D9BD2A148B0A3E704/NR090409.pdf 09/04/09 COLUMBUS - The State of Ohio will receive an additional $29.8 million in federal pandemic preparedness funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to use toward vaccination for H1N1 flu in the coming months. This third phase of funding brings the total to $50.7 million issued to Ohio since July. The funds will be used to implement H1N1 vaccine planning completed in Phases I and II. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/5A88C90AF2A141A9AE027FE3DEFDFF31/NR090309.pdf 09/03/09 COLUMBUS - Ohio's childhood immunization rates are the third-highest in the country. Nearly 82 percent of Ohio children 19 to 35 months old have been fully immunized against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, measles, mumps, rubella, Haemophilus influenzae type B, hepatitis B and chickenpox, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) 2008 National Immunization Survey (NIS). Ohio's rate of 81.8 percent was bested by only Louisiana (81.9 percent) and Massachusetts (82.3 percent). http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/C2C05D48F18B4902B5F051A7AD384C7E/NR090209.pdf 09/02/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio departments of Health (ODH) and Natural Resources (ODNR), in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services program and local health departments (LHDs) will begin fall oral rabies vaccination (ORV) operations Sunday in 16 northeast and eastern Ohio counties. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/D11ABD8F8EAD41A38317E3DEED7489F4/NR083109.pdf 08/31/09 COLUMBUS - The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced last week that Muskingum Valley Health Centers will receive a loan for $2.3 million, through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. This is a portion of $54 million in community facilities projects that was part of last week's announcement. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/8A84E84C670248D8978B1B73A798E76B/nr082709.pdf 08/28/09 COLUMBUS - Ohio's first probable human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in 2009 was recorded today by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), which also reported a sharp increase in the number of WNV-positive mosquitoes. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/66AC9C8BE9E7497F92B13F1D31BA22D5/NewsSmokingBanSuitsFiled%20FINAL.pdf 08/14/09 COLUMBUS - Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray and Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Director Alvin D. Jackson, M.D., today announced the first lawsuits filed against Ohio establishments for violations of the Smoke-free Workplace Act. Complaints were filed in Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas against O'Neal's Tavern in Cincinnati and in Franklin County Court of Common Pleas against Zeno's in Columbus. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/398DBBDB07604D738A33ACAB4680EC1F/nr071009.pdf 07/10/09 COLUMBUS - The State of Ohio will receive $9.8 million in one-time pandemic preparedness funds for states and communities to use in their continued planning and preparations in the event a more severe form of H1N1 flu develops in the coming months. Ohio's share is part of a $260 million national program. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/1D59D32DB5F040638C9C0F493AD140B3/nr070909.pdf 07/09/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Zoonotic Disease Program has confirmed the first evidence of West Nile virus (WNV) in Ohio in 2009 in a mosquito pool collected in Franklin County. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/E625EB3AC5934EBE9E7B9DF320A7B7AD/nr070209.pdf 07/02/09 COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) announced today that a Butler County male in his 40s, who was infected with H1N1 influenza, died June 29. This is the first Ohio death linked to the pandemic strain of influenza. The patient had underlying health problems that may have contributed to his death. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/0B428BB7FFED4F779A558DCCACCF17F2/nr060309.pdf 06/04/09 COLUMBUS - Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Director Alvin D. Jackson, M.D., and other state health officials will update media on ODH's ongoing H1N1 planning, a new case-reporting system and prevention strategies during a conference call from 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday, June 4. Reporters should call 1-800-510-7500; pass code 4049981#; the call is limited to 99 participants. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/8528F483B6E949DC805B6D5BC0C3AB69/NR042609b.pdf 04/26/09 - COLUMBUS - Ohio - Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland, Ohio Department of Health Director Dr. Alvin Jackson, Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Henry Guzman and Ohio Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Nancy Dragani will hold a news briefing at 5:30 pm today, Sunday, Apr. 26 to discuss the confirmed case of the swine flu in Ohio and provide updates on the state's response to the case. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/B38DC668229641BCA13098FBD2859A2F/nr042309.pdf 04/23/09 - COLUMBUS - Pertussis - also known as whooping cough - sickens hundreds of Ohioans every year and the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) wants to help you protect yourself and your loved ones from this vaccine-preventable disease. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/E49BC8CCBE964B78937C6E6B4BB03137/nr041009.pdf 04/10/09 - COLUMBUS - Ohio received $7.5 million in federal stimulus to provide vaccines to uninsured and low income Ohioans, Vice President Joe Biden announced Thursday. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/5D4E6AD555A7484DBA01E61598B37895/nr033109.pdf 03/31/09 - COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department Health (ODH) Office of Healthy Ohio (OHO) today released the Ohio Obesity Prevention Plan, a multi-faceted plan to fight the causes and effects of obesity and overweight, which impact 35.6 percent of Ohio youth ages 10 to 17 and nearly two-thirds of Ohio adults. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/A156B15F551143459C675DA0CE74F58D/nr022509.pdf 02/25/09 - COLUMBUS - In an effort to better ensure access to oral health care and prevention services, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) is conducting several regional meetings to get input from consumers, providers and other stakeholders. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/E2F98098DCCB453A8878AD6CA89D7320/nr021109.pdf 02/11/09 - A second Ohio death has been linked to the multistate Salmonella outbreak, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) reported today. The patient was an elderly female from Medina County; the earlier patient was an elderly female from Summit County. ODH is now reporting 92 cases between Oct. 10, 2008, and Jan. 24, 2009; they range in age from 2 months to 98 years. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/CA9F971D9C9D40BF802124DCF01AA6DB/NR012309.pdf 01/23/09 - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) continues to participate with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in a multistate outbreak investigation of human infections due to Salmonella serotype Typhimurium that has been going on since October 2008. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/0CC09FBC6FFC4D5AA0CD1BFFC335C4B6/Salmonella.pdf 01/21/09 - Ohio is participating (with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) in a nationwide investigation to try to identify the contaminated food vehicle for an outbreak of salmonellosis that has been going on since October 2008. Ohio is reporting 65 cases. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/87206D0FCA754C20BEF7C4FAFD6062F5/nr011509.pdf 01/15/09 - Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Director Alvin D. Jackson, M.D., and Healthy Ohio Business Council Chair Joelyn Ridder will present the fifth-annual Healthy Ohio-Healthy Worksite awards at 10:30 a.m. Feb. 27 at the Columbus Hilton at Polaris. The ceremonies will be held during Health Action Council Ohio's Kick Off conference that features national experts on health reform, health care systems and health benefits including Kathryn Wilber, American Benefits Council and Robert Carlyle, Aon Consulting- Canada. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/C9A3255349174874A608E7AE987F3ADD/nr010609.pdf 01/06/09 - The Ohio Department of Health is participating in a multi-state investigation with the Centersfor Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to try to identify the source for an outbreak of SalmonellaTyphimurium. Ohio ranks second in the nation for number of cases with 50 identified among Ohio residents. Cases, some of which date back to October 2008, match each other by their DNA fingerprint, and thus appear to have a common origin. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/35350996502F48598F0C806394479E9F/nr121708.pdf 12/17/08 - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Office of Vital Statistics (VS) will celebrate the 100th anniversary of its Dec. 20, 1908, founding with a public eception slated for 10 a.m. Dec. 18 at the VS annex at 240 N. Fifth St., Columbus. Among the featured speakers will be ODH Director Alvin D. Jackson, M.D., DH VS Chief Kelly Friar, State Registrar Judith Nagy and keynote speaker Andrea Cambern of WBNS 10-TV. Tours of the VS office will follow and media and the public are welcome to attend. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/EDA19EA4B02846219119B2DF4FBA311B/nr112508.pdf 11/25/08 - Nonfatal, hospital-admitted falls cost the State of Ohio more than 6.2 billion annually in medical costs, lost wages and decreased quality of life, according to The Burden of Injury from Unintentional Falls in Ohio, 2002-2005, a report issued today by the Office of Healthy Ohio (OHO). Of this, 488 million was in medical costs, lost wages added up to 526 million, while decreased quality of lid fee accounted for 5.2 billion, according to the report. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/2F5A016F34ED43A8823D01EB2C4C8745/nr102708.pdf 10/27/08 - The Office of Healthy Ohio (OHO) recently granted more than $1.1 million to 14 local health departments to help reduce the risk of obesity in their respective communities. Poor nutrition and physical inactivity are driving an obesity epidemic that leads to preventable illness such as heart disease and diabetes as well as skyrocketing health care costs. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/5C839441340C41D49A91E9D86739DA0C/nr102208.pdf 10/22/08 - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Health Assessment Section has released the final public health assessment document for the South Dayton Dump and Landfill Superfund site in Dayton, Montgomery County, Ohio. The report reviews available environmental data and makes conclusions and recommendations about potential public health implications posed by the site. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/3244A5A32044496586EB4F3CAEEEF69C/nr102108.pdf 10/21/08 - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Health Assessment Section has released for public comment a draft of the public health assessment document for the Lammers Barrel Factory Superfund site in Beavercreek, Greene County, Ohio. The report reviews available environmental data and makes conclusions and recommendations about potential public health implications posed by the site. The public is asked to review the document and to provide comments or questions to ODH by Dec. 22. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/1DDB5CBBEEDD442BBCDF3FA922278D8C/nr100708.pdf 10/7/08 - More than 1.5 million Ohioans reside in areas that have been federally designated as having a shortage of primary care providers. These shortages impact residents' ability to access care in many rural and urban communities throughout the state. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/5856E4FBABBA44029BD57B15D629BA7A/nr100208.pdf 10/2/08 - Fifteen cities, three villages, two counties and one neighborhood will be honored for promoting good health for their residents. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/626565BB05884C1B8C5A0EAB10035C35/nr092208.pdf 9/22/08 - The health care industry plays a big role in the economies of Ohio's 79 rural counties, and is directly responsible for nearly 10 percent of employment in rural Ohio, according to a report by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) and the Ohio University Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Affairs. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/E9F746CD01D0413B9F529C9ED9BBB21F/NR091908.pdf 9/19/08 - First Lady Frances Strickland today announced an initiative to help tackle Ohio's childhood-obesity epidemic. "As I travel the state, I see the great promise our young people exhibit every day through their creativity, their intelligence and their hope for the future. We must do our part to ensure we give them the best start possible by teaching them to make healthy choices and lead healthy lives," Frances Strickland said. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/87903224CCE1439C917B5E13B151401D/NR091208.pdf 9/12/08 - Obesity threatens Ohio children's health today more than ever. To help address this troubling trend, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) and the Office of Healthy Ohio (OHO) will convene experts from around the state and nation to begin development of a coordinated and comprehensive state action plan to address this critical public health issue. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/62A1220A443141D18FFA26F7DA62CCF9/NR082608.pdf 8/26/08 - A hospital administrator from Paulding County, a physician from Jackson County and a program in Morrow County are this year's Ohio Department of Health (ODH) honorees for helping to increase access to quality care in rural Ohio. "This is a critical public health function," ODH Director Alvin D. Jackson, M.D., said of helping rural residents find the care they deserve and need. "I applaud this year's award winners and hope others will follow their examples and strive to make lasting contributions to the rural health care system." http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/5C0EE81D58EE49F5BF4A4F271E2CDBD0/NR082508.pdf 8/25/08 - The Ohio departments of Health (ODH) and Natural Resources (ODNR), in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services program and local health departments (LHDs), will begin fall oral rabies vaccination (ORV) operations Friday in 16 northeast and eastern Ohio counties. http://www.odh.ohio.gov/ASSETS/C4CBE7798F78452286DE00B0E478ABAF/NR062608.pdf 6/26/08 - The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Zoonotic Disease Program today confirmed the first evidence of West Nile virus (WNV) in Ohio in 2008. The WNV-positive mosquitoes from Cuyahoga County were submitted by the Cleveland Department of Public Health.