Niagara County Department of Health

COVID is still here and the flu season is upon us! Stay safe and healthy! Remember to:
1. Wash your hands often: with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
2. Avoid touching: your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
3. Stay home: from work and/or school if you are sick. Social distance and avoid close contact with people who are sick.
4. Cover your mouth and nose: with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
Please consider getting the flu, updated COVID-19, RSV, and pneumonia vaccine if eligible. Check today to see if you and your family are up to date on your recommended vaccines and talk to a healthcare provider you trust. To find NCDOH vaccination clinic and vaccines offered, visit our website at https://www.niagaracounty.gov/immunizationprogram or call (716) 278-1903. Together, we can prevent the spread of viruses and protect our community!

August 31 is recognized as International Overdose Awareness Day the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose, remember those we have lost to an overdose, acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind, and renew our commitment to end overdose and related harms. This campaign raises awareness of overdose, which is one of the world’s worst public health crises and stimulates action and discussion about evidence-based overdose prevention and drug policy. (DEA)

Our hearts go out to all the people who have lost a loved one. Grief can be a complex human emotion that almost everyone experiences differently. To recognize National Grief Awareness Day, you might take time for self-care, join a support group, and remember those you’ve lost. If you’re struggling to cope with grief, consider working with a therapist online or in person to get professional support.
Need help now? Contact the Su***de & Crisis Lifeline at 988.

Today is our last Fresh Air Friday from 1PM-3PM. Join us at Artpark – 450 S. 4th Street, Lewiston NY 14092 for some FREE family fun!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: The Niagara County Department of Health (NCDOH) confirmed a case of rabies in a kitten found on Prospect Street in the City of Lockport on August 28, 2024. The approximately 4-week-old kitten, taken in by a nearby family, displayed aggressive scratching behavior and was examined by a local veterinarian on August 25. Due to signs of a potential neurological disorder and paralysis, the decision was made to euthanize the kitten for rabies testing. After confirmation that the kitten tested positive for rabies, the NCDOH began evaluating individuals who had direct physical contact with the animal for possible post-exposure rabies vaccination.
Bats, raccoons, skunks, and fox are all common wildlife carriers of the rabies virus. Domestic pets, such as dogs, cats and ferrets are susceptible to contracting rabies if unvaccinated. It is possible that a rabid animal can shed (share) the virus by direct contact before symptoms appear visible. A rabid animal can only be confirmed by submitting a laboratory sample.
Animal rabies continues to be a serious public health concern in Niagara County. Rabies is a viral disease that nearly always results in death of the animal that is not adequately protected with a rabies vaccination.
The Niagara County Department of Health would like to remind County residents of the following precautions to prevent exposure to rabies from wildlife and domestic animals:
• Do not feed, touch or adopt wild animals, stray dogs or feral cats
• Be sure your dogs and cats are up to date on their rabies vaccinations. Vaccinated pets serve as a buffer between rabid wildlife and humans. Protect pets with rabies vaccination to reduce your risk of exposure to rabies. Dogs and cats that receive their first rabies vaccine are protected for a one-year period. A dog or cat’s second and subsequent vaccination will protect from rabies for up to three years. Pets too young to be vaccinated should be kept indoors. By law all cats, dogs, and ferrets must have current rabies vaccinations from four months of age and on. The NCDOH conducts free rabies clinics. The dates for scheduled clinics are posted on our website.
• Keep family pets indoors at night. Do not leave them outside unattended or let them roam free.
• Do not attract wild animals to your home or yard. Keep your property free of stored birdseed or other foods that may attract wild animals. Feed pets indoors. Tightly cover, or put away garbage cans. Board up any openings to your attic, basement, porch or garage. Cap your chimney with screens.
• Encourage children to immediately tell adults if they are bitten or scratched by any animals. Tell children not to touch any animals they do not know.
• If a wild animal is on your property, let it wander away. Bring children and pets indoors and alert neighbors that are outside. You may contact a nuisance wildlife control officer who will remove the animal for a fee; or if there is danger, you can call your local law enforcement agency.
• If your pet has been in a fight with another animal, wear gloves to handle it. Isolate it from other animals and people for several hours. Call your veterinarian. Your vaccinated pet will need a booster dose of rabies vaccine within five days of the exposure. Unvaccinated animals exposed to a known or suspected rabid animal must be confined for six months or humanely euthanized.
Report all animal bites or contact with wild animals to the NCDOH Environmental Division at (716) 439-7444. For additional information on rabies, please visit www.niagaracounty.gov/rabies.

Just a reminder that tomorrow is Fresh Air Friday! Please join us tomorrow at
Artpark – 450 S. 4th Street, Lewiston NY 14092 from 1-3pm. This is our last Fresh Air Friday event.

Look for us at the Niagara County Peach Festival. We will be offering information about the programs and services we offer, and our RV will be available for diaper changing and breastfeeding. Hope to see you there!

5 Things you and your community can do to protect your water
1) Use a rain barrel to collect rainwater
2) Plant a tree to prevent erosion
3) Do not throw away leftover paint or flush away unwanted medication down the toilet
4) Organize a stream/beach cleanup
5) Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth or washing the dishes when water isn’t needed

Take a few minutes to develop a tornado emergency plan.
• Identify a safe place in your home for household members and pets to gather during a tornado.
• Make sure everyone understands the tornado warning system in your area.
• Teach your family how to administer basic first aid, how to use a fire extinguisher, and how and when to turn off water, gas, and electricity in your home.
• Learn the emergency dismissal policy for your child's school.
(CDC)

Va**ng has many harmful effects on the body. Quit Va**ng Today! Text:DropTheVape to 88709.
Get the free New York State Department of Health’s resource, 24/7 confidential support and advice from other young people. This will help you stay strong!

One in five people, or 20%, of Americans have a sexually transmitted infection (STI). The best way to stay safe from the long term effects of STIs is to get tested regularly. The Niagara County Department of Health offers confidential testing, treatment, and counseling at our Sexual Health Center, located at 1001 11th Street, Niagara Falls 14301. The Center is walk-in only and open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9AM-3PM. GET TESTED – PROTECT YOURSELF – PROTECT YOUR PARTNER

Did you know that smoking can cause more damage to your lungs other than lung cancer? It can cause conditions like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asthma attacks, and damaged air sacs and airways. Quit smoking today to reduce your risk of developing lung disease later on!
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To make an appointment with the Healthy Neighborhoods Program that conducts door-to-door visits to improve the quality of life by improving the environmental health and safety conditions in the home call (716) 439-7479.

We all want to enjoy this nice weather but it’s important to stay safe when being outside. Reminder to stay out of the heat between 11AM and 3PM when the sun is at its hottest and stay hydrated. Most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, so be sure to apply sunscreen regularly, wear clothing that covers, sunglasses and a hat. (CDC)

Prepare for the new school year by making sure your child is immunized. To find NCDOH vaccination clinic and vaccines offered, find more info on our website www.niagaracounty.gov/immunizationprogram Appointments are required. To schedule an appointment, call (716) 278-1903.

Millions of kids take the bus to and from school each day! Before the school year starts, talk to your kids about these safety tips!

Fresh Air Fridays is at the Kenan Center today, from 1-3 PM! ☀

This Friday's theme is about being a "Team Player" 🤝

This is a free, family-friendly program with activities, snacks, and prizes! Community partners will be onsite with resources and information for families, including information on childhood development, childhood immunizations, lead prevention, child safety, and more. Come join us for an afternoon of fun in the sun! 😁

Thank you to the P3 Center for Teens, Moms and Kids, and the Healthy Moms Healthy Babies Coalition for hosting this program today at the Kenan Center!
433 Locust St. Lockport, NY

Today is Fresh Air Friday from 1PM-3PM. Join us at The Kenan Center – 433 Locust Street, Lockport, NY 14094 for some FREE family fun!

Just a reminder that tomorrow is Fresh Air Friday! Please join us tomorrow at
The Kenan Center – 433 Locust Street, Lockport, NY 14094. This event will be occurring weekly until August 30.

Have you visited any of Niagara County’s Farmers Markets this summer? If not, it’s not too late! Go to any of these farmers markets to get locally grown, farm-fresh produce. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables is a great way to maintain a nutritious and balanced diet while supporting farming communities local to Niagara County. Confirm locations and hours before visiting.

Did you know? Bats are one of the most commonly reported rabid animals. If you find a bat in your home, try to safely capture it for rabies testing. By testing the bat for rabies, health officials can decide if rabies vaccination is needed.

Here are some tips to capture a bat:
- Close the doors and windows, and turn on the lights.
- Find a container like a box or a can large enough for the bat to fit in, and a piece of cardboard large enough to cover the container opening. Punch small air holes in the cardboard.
- Put on leather work gloves. When the bat lands, approach it slowly and place the container over it. Slide the cardboard under the container to trap the bat inside.
- Tape the cardboard to the container to secure the bat inside. Contact our Environmental Health Division at 716-439-7444 to have the bat tested for rabies.

For further information please watch the NYSDOH YouTube video on “How to catch a bat” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=puP8qbATPKg

Together, we can protect children, families, and communities through routine vaccination. Check today to see if you and your family are up to date on your recommended vaccines and talk to a healthcare provider you trust. (CDC.gov)
To find NCDOH vaccination clinic and vaccines offered, visit our website at https://www.niagaracounty.gov/immunizationprogram Or call (716) 278-1903.

August is World Cancer Support Month. This month stands as a beacon of solidarity and hope for those affected by all cancers across the globe. This dedicated month serves as a reminder of the immense strength, resilience, and compassion that unite individuals, families, and communities in the face of this challenging disease.

Join us for a FREE year-long diabetes prevention program that begins September 4, 2024. Classes will be held on Wednesdays from 1-2pm. This program begins with 16-weeks of weekly class sessions focused on lifestyle changes, healthy eating, and physical activity. After the 16-weeks will be three months of biweekly sessions, then 5 months of monthly sessions to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. For more information or to register, call (716) 278-8596.

Meet our newest fellow Bryan! He is working for the Public Health Emergency Preparedness Division of Niagara County Department of Health. He will be assisting with developing and improving public health response plans and engaging and expanding our Medical Reserve Corps.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers overall. Every year, on August 18 it is observed as World Breast Cancer Research Day to emphasize the urgent need of finding a cure. This day also aims to raise awareness to show support and compassion towards people living with breast cancer.

Remember to schedule your yearly physical! Seeing a primary care provider at least once per year is important to maintain good health, catch chronic disease before they progress, and stay up to date with vaccinations and screening. Schedule your check-up today!

Back to school season is coming soon! Make sure to save some time in your summer schedule to get your child caught up on all their regular vaccinations. Check out required school vaccinations for New York here: https://www.health.ny.gov/prevention/immunization/schools/school_vaccines/

August is Immunization Awareness Month! Getting vaccinated against preventable diseases is the best way to build up your immune system to protect yourself and others from getting sick. To find NCDOH vaccination clinic and vaccines offered, find more info on our website www.niagaracounty.gov/immunizationprogram. Appointments are required. To schedule an appointment, call (716) 278-1903.

Today is Fresh Air Friday from 1PM-3PM. Join us at Pendleton Park 6570 Campbell Boulevard, Lockport, 14094 for some FREE family fun!

Just a reminder that tomorrow is Fresh Air Friday! Please join us at Pendleton Park 6570 Campbell Boulevard, Lockport, 14094. This event will be occurring weekly until August 30.