Home Latest UpdatesMDHHS extends epidemic order, strengthens mask requirement for children04/16/2021News / Public ServiceOrder expands mask requirement to children ages 2-4 as recommended by American Academy of Pediatrics LANSING, MICH. Today, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) extended its Gatherings and Mask epidemic order. The Order – which preserves the strongest public health order in the Midwest – is designed to balance day-to-day activities while controlling the spread of COVID-19 and saving Michiganders’ lives. It includes expansion of mask requirements to children ages 2 to 4 to further protect the state’s residents. Although progress has been made, it is crucial that Michiganders continue to mask up and socially distance as the state takes steps to get back to normal. Expanding the mask rule to children ages 2 to 4 requires a good faith effort to ensure that these children wear masks while in gatherings at childcare facilities or camps. It takes effect April 26, 2021. This addresses the increase in cases among younger Michiganders and follows recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance. “Michigan continues to implement smart health policies and mitigation measures to fight the spread of COVID-19,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “This includes the requirement to wear a mask while in public and at gatherings, limits on indoor residential social gatherings larger than 15 people with no more than three households, and expanded testing requirements for youth sports. Additionally, the most important thing people can do right now is to get the safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine to protect themselves and their families, and help us eliminate this virus once and for all.” As of today, 29.5% of Michigan residents 16 and older had been fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and 44% had received at least a first dose. “More than 5.5 million doses of the safe and effective COVID vaccines have been administered in Michigan, and we are well on our way to vaccinating at least 70% of Michiganders ages 16 and up,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health at MDHHS. “However, I continue to be incredibly concerned about our state’s COVID-19 data. We are still very much fighting this pandemic and seeing concerning trends in new cases and hospitalizations. Michiganders need to be using every tool in our toolbox right now to get these cases and hospitalizations down. Just because something is open and legal does not mean you should be doing it. We all must continue doing what works to slow the spread of the disease by wearing masks, washing our hands, avoiding crowds and indoor gatherings, and making plans to get the safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible.” MDHHS had been closely monitoring three metrics for stabilization or declines over the past several weeks. Michigan’s metrics have been increasing for the past few weeks, although the rate of increase is declining. The presence of more infectious variants, such as the B 1.1.7 variant, threatens progress in control of the epidemic and MDHHS will be monitoring data closely. In recent days: Positivity rate: had increased for eight weeks but has seen a recent 5-day decline to 17.1%. However, this metric remains up 390% from the mid-February low and remains above the December peak of 14.4%. Statewide case rate: This metric has increased over the past eight weeks to 613.9 cases per million. The rate is more than 475% higher than the low in mid-February but remains below peak of 737.8 cases per million on Saturday, Nov 14. Hospital capacity: The percent of inpatient beds dedicated to those with COVID-19 is now at 18.8%. This metric peaked at 19.6% on Tuesday, Dec. 4, and is up 373% from the February low. “Nurses are exhausted. Many hospitals are close to 100% capacity. RNs around the state are being put in the impossible situation of having to decide which patient to attend to. Nurses are working up to 18 hours at a time, often without breaks,” said Jamie Brown, president of the Michigan Nurses Association. “We are begging for everyone in the community to do their part. Stay home. Wear a mask. Get a vaccine when you are able. We are barely able to keep our heads above water. We are in crisis. We need our communities’ help.” “We know that wearing a mask significantly reduces the spread of infection and should be part of the comprehensive strategy to reduce COVID-19—including for children age 2 and up,” said Michigan Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (MIAAP) President Dr. Matthew Hornik. “Use of masks does not restrict oxygen in the lungs even in children, it is recommended to wear a mask with layers to filter droplets effectively.” The order extension is through May 24. An infographic that highlights order requirements can be found on Michigan’s COVID-19 website. Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus. To learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine, visit Michigan.gov/COVIDVaccine. Like this:Like Loading...... BHSJ Community Health Agency Pauses Use of Johnson & Johnson Vaccine04/13/2021News / Public ServiceAll BHSJCHA clinics will use Moderna or Pfizer vaccine until otherwise directed Coldater, MI – The Branch Hillsdale St. Joseph Community Health Agency (BHSJCHA) is pausing all use of the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA and CDC have recommended this pause, and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has confirmed it. “We are stopping all use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine until we have more information and guidance,” says Health Officer, Rebecca Burns, “There is no impact on use of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines.” According to a joint statement from the CDC and FDA, as of April 12, more than 6.8 million doses of the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen ) vaccine have been administered in the U.S. CDC and FDA are reviewing data involving six reported U.S. cases of a rare and severe type of blood clot in individuals after receiving the J&J vaccine. People who have received the J&J vaccine who develop severe headache, abdominal pain, leg pain, or shortness of breath within three weeks after vaccination should contact their health care provider. Health care providers are asked to report adverse events to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System at https://vaers.hhs.gov/reportevent.html. “There are no clinics with Johnson & Johnson vaccine on our calendar this week, so none of our clinics will be canceled,” says Health Officer, Rebecca Burns. Moderna and Pfizer vaccine clinics will continue as scheduled this week with the exception of the Friday, April 16 clinic at Dearth Center which is being moved to Bronson High School. Moderna and Pfizer vaccine appointments can be scheduled on the BHSJCHA site at http://www.bhsj.org or a list of pharmacies scheduling vaccine appointments near you can be found at http://www.vaccinefinder.org. BHSJCHA is committed to promoting wellness, preventing disease, providing healthcare, and protecting the environment. For additional information, contact your local health department office or visit http://www.bhsj.org and follow us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/BHSJCHA. Like this:Like Loading...... Health Department Reminds Residents to Practice Mitigation Strategies04/13/2021News / Public Service14 Day Quarantine for Close Contacts of COVID-19 Reinstated Coldater, MI – The Branch Hillsdale St. Joseph Community Health Agency (BHSJCHA) has experienced an increase in the number of new COVID-19 cases being reported and variant spread, similar to the rest of Michigan, in the last few weeks. BHSJCHA is following MDHHS guidance on reinstituting a standard 14-day quarantine for close contacts of COVID-19 cases. This will remove the option of a 10-day quarantine for non-variant cases. Due to increased cases, there may also be a delay in contacting someone who tests positive for the virus or has been in close contact to someone who has COVID-19. If you receive a positive COVID-19 test result, isolate for a minimum of 10 days from the start of your symptom(s) or your positive test date if you didn’t have symptoms. Notify your close contacts that they may have been exposed and encourage them to quarantine for 14 days from their last date of contact with you. If you know you are a close contact, start self-quarantine. Residents are urged to continue taking precautions to slow the spread of the virus. Continued diligence with social distancing, hand hygiene, use of face coverings, and remaining at home if feeling signs of illness are crucial at this time. In addition to these personal prevention actions, community members 16 years of age and older are also strongly encouraged to consider receiving a COVID-19 vaccine to protect themselves and those around them. Vaccine appointments can be made on the BHSJCHA website at http://www.bhsj.org or a list of pharmacies scheduling vaccine appointments near you can be found at http://www.vaccinefinder.org. BHSJCHA is asking everyone to do their part in curbing this spike of COVID-19 cases in our community. BHSJCHA is committed to promoting wellness, preventing disease, providing healthcare, and protecting the environment. For additional information, contact your local health department office or visit http://www.bhsj.org and follow us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/BHSJCHA. Like this:Like Loading...... COVID-19 Variant Identified in Branch County04/05/2021News / Public ServiceBHSJCHA Reminds all to Continue COVID-19 Precautions Coldwater, MI – The COVID-19 variant B.1.1.7 has been identified in a Branch County COVID positive resident. The individual has been in isolation since initial COVID-19 diagnosis. Variant identification is learned after further testing of the initial specimen called sequencing. All three counties in the tri-county area have now had a sample identified as the B.1.1.7 variant. The COVID-19 virus, as expected with a coronavirus, has changed over the past year. The SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 variant originated in the United Kingdom and has been found throughout the United States, with the first case in Michigan recorded in January. The B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily and is believed to be more contagious. However, there is no indication that it affects the clinical outcomes or disease severity compared to the original strain. “Since the variant is more contagious, the virus could potentially infect more people with less exposure”, said Rebecca Burns, Health Officer of the Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency (BHSJCHA). “Which is why it is imperative our community strengthen prevention measures by wearing masks, physically distancing, avoiding crowds, washing hands frequently and getting vaccinated when it becomes available to you.” Based on available evidence, current tests and vaccines for COVID-19 also work against this new variant. Protective actions that prevent the spread of COVID-19 will also prevent the spread of the new variant B.1.1.7: Wear a face mask around others · Keep at least 6 feet apart from others · Wash hands frequently · Avoid crowded areas or gatherings · Ventilate indoor spaces if around others · Seek testing if ill or exposed. · Follow isolation or quarantine guidance if ill, exposed, or waiting on test results · Get vaccinated, all tri-county residents are invited to schedule an appointment to receive the vaccine BHSJCHA is committed to promoting wellness, preventing disease, providing healthcare, and protecting the environment. For additional information, contact your local health department office or visit http://www.bhsj.org and follow us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/BHSJCHA. Like this:Like Loading...... Special Weather Statement04/03/2021News / Public Service / WeatherSpecial Weather Statement until SAT 7:30 PM EDT Action Recommended Avoid the subject event as per the instructions Issued By North Webster – IN, US, National Weather Service Affected Area Hillsdale County Description …Elevated Fire Danger Through Early This Evening… A combination of dry fine fuels, such as grass and dead brush, relative humidity values in the 25 to 35 percent range and southwest winds gusting as high as 35 mph will increase the risk for grass, brush and ditch fires, as well as unmonitored campfire, to spread rapidly out of control this afternoon. Burning is not recommended. Make sure you are following any local laws that may be in place regarding burning in your location. If you must burn, ensure that the fire is constantly monitored and several options are available to quickly extinguish the fire. Contact your local fire department with any questions and if control of the fire is lost. Like this:Like Loading...... City of Hillsdale Hydrant Flushing Notice04/02/2021News / Public ServiceOn Sunday 4/4/2021 the Hillsdale BPU will begin the semi-annual fire hydrant flushing program in the City of Hillsdale between the hours of 9:00 PM and 5:30 AM, continuing daily between 7:30 AM and 3:30 PM and between 9:00 PM and 5:30 AM. It should take 2 weeks to complete, starting on the north end of the City and working south. During the flushing program residents can expect reduced water pressure, discoloration and momentary interruption of water service. The HBPU advises residents to please refrain from doing laundry during these hours of flushing as the discoloration may stain clothing. If your water is discolored, run the cold water tap for 10 – 15 minutes and it should clear up. The water is safe for consumption. If you have any questions call the HBPU office at 437-3387. The HBPU apologizes for any inconvenience and asks for your cooperation during our operations. Like this:Like Loading...... April is Alcohol Awareness Month – keep alcohol in check as consumption and binge drinking increases04/01/2021News / Public ServiceAs Michiganders continue to deal with pandemic-induced stress and anxiously look forward to getting back to a “new normal,” the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Director Elizabeth Hertel and the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) Chair Pat Gagliardi urge moderation in drinking as they recognize April as Alcohol Awareness Month. “The stresses of COVID-19 over the last year have stretched the limits of otherwise moderate drinkers and we’re seeing an increase in alcohol consumption and binge drinking that can result in long-term health issues,” said MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel. “Excessive drinking can compromise a person’s immune system, which is a big concern during this pandemic. Additionally, drinking in excess causes issues like depression and can affect your sleep and digestion in addition to other side effects. If you drink alcohol, be aware of how much you’re consuming and always do so in moderation.” Consider these statistics: The average Michigander consumed nearly 956 alcoholic drinks in 2020, an average of 18 drinks per week.* This exceeds “heavy drinking” as defined as 14 drinks per week for men and seven per week for women, by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Michigan ranked in the Top 10 among states that drank the most throughout 2020, beating the national average.* The prevalence for binge drinking among Michigan adults is higher than the U.S. median; is significantly higher among Michigan males (22.3%) than females (12.3%); and highest within the 25 to 34-year-old age group (26.8%), followed by the 18 to 24-year-old (26.1%) and 35 to 44-year-old (21.2%) age groups.** According to MDHHS, excessive alcohol use leads to approximately 3,205 deaths and 92,753 years of potential life lost in Michigan each year. Alcohol awareness starts with these important reminders: Know that alcohol products are increasingly more potent, such as hard liquors, including tequila and gin. Know what a standard “drink” is: 12 ounces of beer (5% alcohol content); 5 ounces of wine (12% alcohol content); or 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits or liquor (40% alcohol content) — gin, rum, vodka, whiskey, etc. Know consumption guidelines for healthy adults: one drink a day for women of all ages and men over age 65; up to two drinks a day for men under age 65. Don’t binge drink. For women, it’s those who drink more than four drinks in an outing and men who drink more than five. Know that heavy drinking can lead to chronic diseases, including problems with your liver, throat, larynx and esophagus. It can lead to high blood pressure, psychological problems and pancreatitis. And the risk of becoming an alcoholic. Never drink while pregnant. If you become pregnant, stop drinking alcohol. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation: Set limits on how much you’re drinking. Don’t relax your rules; stick with your usual limits on alcohol. Consider low- or no-alcohol drinks. Limit sugary cocktails that can impact your immune system especially if you already have underlying health conditions. “Alcohol is a controlled substance,” said MLCC Chair Pat Gagliardi. “I implore parents to set a good example for their kids about alcohol use. Talk to your kids about the dangers of underage drinking; drinking and driving and health issues attributable to drinking in excess. These are important lessons that can save lives and last a lifetime.” National Alcohol Awareness Month in America provides an opportunity to increase awareness of alcohol addiction and to bring understanding of alcohol’s causes, the effective treatments available, plus encouraging people that recovery is very possible. Alcohol Awareness Month was established in 1987 by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence to help communities reach out to the public and provide answers to end the stigma associated with alcohol abuse. For more information and resources available, please visit: MDHHS – Treatment (michigan.gov) or Ncadd.org/ It is the mission of the MLCC to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through the regulation of those involved in the importation, sale, consumption, distribution, and delivery of these alcohol products. Sources: * Americans consumed an average of 17 drinks per week in 2020 (drugabuse.com) ** 2018 Michigan Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Like this:Like Loading...... COVID-19 Variant Identified in Hillsdale County04/01/2021News / Public ServiceThe COVID-19 variant B.1.1.7 has been identified in a Hillsdale County COVID positive resident. The individual has been in isolation since initial COVID-19 diagnosis. Variant identification is learned after further testing of the initial specimen called sequencing. The COVID-19 virus, as expected with a coronavirus, has changed over the past year. The SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 variant originated in the United Kingdom and has been found throughout the United States, with the first case in Michigan recorded in January. The B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily and is believed to be more contagious. However, there is no indication that it affects the clinical outcomes or disease severity compared to the original strain. “Since the variant is more contagious, the virus could potentially infect more people with less exposure”, said Rebecca Burns, Health Officer of the Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency (BHSJCHA). “Which is why it is imperative our community strengthen prevention measures by wearing masks, physically distancing, avoiding crowds, washing hands frequently and getting vaccinated when it becomes available to you.” Based on available evidence, current tests and vaccines for COVID-19 also work against this new variant. Protective actions that prevent the spread of COVID-19 will also prevent the spread of the new variant B.1.1.7: · Wear a face mask around others · Keep at least 6 feet apart from others · Wash hands frequently · Avoid crowded areas or gatherings · Ventilate indoor spaces if around others · Seek testing if ill or exposed. · Follow isolation or quarantine guidance if ill, exposed, or waiting on test results · Get vaccinated, all tri-county residents are invited to schedule an appointment to receive the vaccine BHSJCHA is committed to promoting wellness, preventing disease, providing healthcare, and protecting the environment. For additional information, contact your local health department office or visit http://www.bhsj.org and follow us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/BHSJCHA. Like this:Like Loading...... Michigan Residents Reminded to Take Preventative Measures During Carbon Monoxide Safety and Awareness Month04/01/2021News / Public ServiceAs Carbon Monoxide Safety and Awareness Month kicks off today, Orlene Hawks, the director of the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), reminds Michiganders to take preventative measures to prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. “Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas produced by burning gasoline, wood, propane, charcoal or other fuel,” said Hawks. “As a result, carbon monoxide poisoning can happen to anyone if there are no safety measures in place. Take action today to ensure that your home is protected. Being aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide and taking preventative measures are the best ways to protect your family.” “Carbon monoxide (CO) detectors save lives,” said State Fire Marshal Kevin Sehlmeyer. “It is imperative that you have a functioning CO detector on every level of your home, near every sleeping area, and more than 12-inches from an interior corner to allow for proper airflow.” The National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Association (NCOAA) recommends that residents change the batteries in CO detectors powered by 9-volt batteries every six months and test the alarms monthly. The NCOAA also recommends that residents using CO detectors powered by 10-year lithium batteries test them monthly and consider replacing the alarm every five to seven years. It is important to check the specific CO alarm to determine the exact lifetime of the product. To bring attention to this important issue, Governor Whitmer has declared the month of April as Carbon Monoxide Safety Awareness Month. Each year across the United States, accidental CO poisoning is responsible for at least 50,000 emergency room visits and 430 deaths. Seventy percent of CO poisonings happen in the home, but only 12% of families in the US have properly functioning CO detectors installed in their homes. Exposure to carbon monoxide may be particularly dangerous for: Developing babies: Fetal blood cells absorb CO more readily than adult blood cells do. As a result, unborn babies are more susceptible to the negative health effects of CO poisoning. Children: Children have smaller bodies and breathe more rapidly than adults, making them more susceptible to CO poisoning. Older adults: Elderly individuals are particularly susceptible to the negative health effects of CO and may be more likely to develop brain damage following CO exposure. People who have heart disease: CO causes direct damage to the heart, which permanently impairs heart function. As a result, people who have pre-existing heart disease are at greater risk for serious adverse health effects following CO exposure. Those who are chronically exposed to CO: People who are repeatedly exposed to CO can have more severe health effects at lower levels of CO exposure. Follow these tips to ensure your safety: DO NOT use portable generators inside your home, garage, carport, basement, or any other enclosed space, such as a covered porch. DO NOT use charcoal or gas grills or camping stoves inside your home. Have your furnace or wood burning stove inspected annually by a professional. DO NOT use your gas oven or stove top to heat your home. DO NOT run a car in an enclosed space. DO use gasoline-powered equipment like generators outside only and at least 20 feet from your home. DO keep your generator away from doors, windows or air intake vents. DO keep airflow for furnaces and exhausts clear of snow and ice. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea, and confusion. At high levels, carbon monoxide can cause death within minutes. If you suspect you may be experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning, or your detector sounds an alarm, head outside immediately for fresh air and call 911. CO safety awareness is a top priority in Michigan. Residents are encouraged to visit www.miprevention.org and www.NCOAA.us to learn about this poisonous gas and ensure homes, workplaces, equipment, and appliances are equipped and maintained to protect themselves and loved ones against possible poisoning. Like this:Like Loading...... ALL BHSJ Residents May Register for a Vaccine03/23/2021News / Public ServiceAll people 16 and older now invited to schedule a COVID-19 vaccination in Branch, Hillsdale, and St. Joseph counties The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency (BHSJCHA) is announcing today that more individuals are invited to schedule their COVID-19 vaccination. The following individuals may now register: All residents of Branch, Hilldale, & St. Joseph Counties who are age 16 and older. BHSJCHA currently has all three COVID-19 vaccines available and individuals are encouraged to schedule for one of the vaccination clinics being held this week. While the Moderna, Pfizer, and Johnson and Johnson vaccines all prevent severe illness from Covid-19 and death, the Johnson and Johnson vaccine has the added benefit of only requiring one dose. “One vaccine is not better than another,” says Rebecca Burns, Health Officer. “Get whichever vaccine you can get as soon as possible. Any Covid vaccine received is better than none.” BHSJCHA is committed to promoting wellness, preventing disease, providing healthcare, and protecting the environment. www.bhsj.org Like this:Like Loading...... Share this:TwitterFacebookLike this:Like Loading...
