Tag Archives: Health

Coconino County Health officials confirm first death due to COVID-19

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FLAGSTAFF – Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) confirmed the first COVID-19 related death in Coconino County. The individual was a male in his 50s with underlying health conditions.

CCHHS is working to identify and contact anyone who may have been in close contact with the decedent. These individuals will be asked to quarantine or isolate as necessary and will be monitored by public health for fever and respiratory symptoms.

“Our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time,” said County Incident Commander and Deputy County Manager Dr. Marie Peoples. “We share in this family’s grief and are deeply committed to doing all we can to ensure the health and safety of our community. We urge everyone to take precautions to protect themselves and their family including washing their hands frequently, staying home when they are sick and contacting a healthcare provider for medical guidance. “

To date, there have been 18 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Coconino County. COVID-19 can be a serious disease, especially in elderly populations and people with underlying health conditions.

CCHHS urges people to continue to take precautions. The best ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then immediately throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

COVID-19 spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms are thought to appear within two to 14 days after exposure and consist of fever, cough and difficulty breathing. For people with mild illness, individuals are asked to stay home, drink plenty of fluids and rest. For people with more severe symptoms, such as shortness of breath, individuals are advised to seek healthcare.

Coconino County activated the County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) on March 12, 2020. The EOC coordinates the County’s response to the COVID-19 outbreak. For more information about COVID-19, please visit www.coconino.az.gov/covid19 or email COVID19Information@coconino.az.gov.

County COVID-19 drive-up swab testing to begin

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FLAGSTAFF – Coconino County established a drive-up COVID-19 specimen collection facility at Fort Tuthill. The site will be available for swab testing from noon – 4 p.m. on Monday, March 16. Beginning Tuesday, March 17, hours for drive-up testing will be from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

An order from a medical provider is required for testing. Testing sites are not open to the public and people without proper documentation will be turned away. Once complete, the specimen will be taken to a test site for COVID-19 testing.

Northern Arizona Health Care will initially support the collection process and materials needed to obtain specimens. Coconino County Public Works will assist with traffic control. Coconino County Parks & Recreation will support facility operations. Coconino County Health and Human Services and the Incident Management Team will provide support for the entire collection process and the Coconino County Sheriff will provide security.

The County has established a COVID-19 Information Line from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. daily for people who have questions. The Information Line number is 928.679.7300. People can also email questions to: COVID19Information@coconino.az.gov.

There is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19 infection. As a reminder, CCHHS recommends taking these actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including:

  • Get a seasonal flu shot
  • Wash hands frequently.
  • Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth.
  • Avoid contact with people who are sick.
  • Cover your mouth with your upper sleeve or with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Additional preparedness information from the CDC can be found at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/home/get-your-household-ready-for-COVID-19.html

Please go to www.coconino.az.gov/covid19 for more information.

Governor’s Office and County collaborate to promote child passenger safety

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FLAGSTAFF – The Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) Injury Prevention Program received a grant from the Arizona Governor’s Office of Highway Safety of $15,913 this fiscal year. From the grant, $14,138 will be spent on child passenger safety/occupant protection and $1,775 will go towards pedestrian and bicycle safety.

The CCHHS Injury Prevention Program has promoted child passenger safety and driver awareness with the Arizona Governor’s Office of Highway Safety since 2003.

The CCHS Injury Prevention Program will use the funding to provide under-served areas in Coconino County with car seat safety education and to participate in events that enhance the existing child safety program, materials and supplies.

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among children ages two to 14. Research shows that as children age, they are less likely to be in the appropriate child safety seat for their age and weight. Correctly used child safety seats are extremely effective and reduce the risk of injury and death approximately 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers. Children ages 4-8 using belt-positioning booster seats are 45% less likely to sustain injuries than those only using seat belts.

Child Passenger Safety is at the heart of the CCHHS Injury Prevention Program and teaches families how to safely transport their children. Certified child passenger safety technicians and instructors inspect child safety seats at several community events throughout the year and educate parents and caregivers.

For more information on the CCHHS Injury Prevention program, call 928-679-7262 or visit www.coconino.az.gov/health.

Mosquitoes test positive for West Nile virus

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FLAGSTAFF -– Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) officials found mosquitoes that tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV) in an area south of Lake Mary Road in Flagstaff. This is the first positive WNV in mosquitoes in Coconino County this year. No human cases have been reported in Coconino County since 2010 when two human cases were identified.

CCHHS staff has applied a non-toxic larvicide treatment to reduce mosquito populations in water pools in the affected area and in other locations in the County. CCHHS will continue trapping and testing mosquitoes in areas where there is mosquito activity until colder weather returns. Although this is the only area where mosquitoes have tested positive this year, WNV is endemic and could be present in other areas throughout the County.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, insect repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus or PMD–the synthesized version of oil of lemon eucalyptus—and IR3535 typically provide reasonably long-lasting protection.

People are encouraged to take the following precautions to prevent mosquito bites.

· Mosquitoes that carry WNV are most active at dusk and dawn. Stay indoors during these times or wear shoes and socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoor.
· Use screens on windows and doors. Repair holes in screens to keep mosquitoes outdoors.
· Use air conditioning, if available.
· Stop mosquitoes from laying eggs near your home. Once a week, empty and scrub, turn over, cover, or throw out items that hold water, such as tires, buckets, planters, toys, pools, birdbaths, flowerpots, or trash containers.

People should continue these preventive measures until cold weather returns and mosquito activity diminishes in the fall.

There is no specific treatment for WNV other than supportive care, and there is no vaccine available for humans. A WNV vaccination is available for horses. CCHHS encourages horse owners to discuss vaccinations with their veterinarian.

For more information or to report any concerns, call the Coconino County Health and Human Services Environmental Health office at 928-679-8750 or toll free 1-877-679-7272.

Two foxes test positive for rabies

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FLAGSTAFF – The Coconino County Public Health Services District (CCPHSD) confirmed that two captured foxes have tested positive for rabies.

The foxes were captured and tested following reports of attacks in the Country Club area and near Mars Hill in Flagstaff. The four individuals involved in the animal attacks are being treated with post exposure rabies prophylaxis. Two dogs were also bitten. Both are current on rabies vaccinations and are being quarantined by their owners for 45 days for observation.

CCPHSD is reminding individuals to use caution to protect against rabies exposure when walking, hiking, camping or in a situation where wildlife may be present. Health officials recommend the following precautions to protect against rabies:

  • Avoid wildlife, especially nocturnal mammals that are active during the daytime and animals that are exhibiting unusual wildlife behaviors which can include; showing no fear of humans, aggressive behavior, staggering and/or acting sickly.
  • Keep all pets current on vaccinations and obey leash laws.
  • Always keep pets away from wild animals.
  • Never pick up, touch, or feed wild or unfamiliar animals, even if they do not appear sick or aggressive.
  • Report any wild animal exhibiting erratic or aggressive behavior.
  • Seek immediate medical attention if you are bitten by, or have contact with, a wild animal.
  • Pet owners should seek medical care from their veterinarian if their pet is bitten by wildlife.

To report unusual wildlife sightings or behavior, call the Coconino County Public Health Services District Animal Management Program at 928-679-8756. To report a wildlife emergency, call 911.

For more information on rabies visit www.azhealth.gov/rabies.

Safety Tips for homemade apple cider

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FLAGSTAFF – The Coconino County Public Health Service District (CCPHSD) advises residents to protect themselves against potential foodborne illness from apple cider. There is an abundance of apples in Coconino County this fall due to the lack of an early frost and people may be using apples to make apple cider.

Foodborne illnesses have been attributed to the consumption of fresh, unpasteurized cider contaminated with a foodborne pathogen like E. coli O157:H7. Certain age groups are at a greater risk of complications from harmful bacteria such as children, the elderly and persons with compromised immune systems.

CCPHSD recommends taking the following precautions to protect against foodborne illness when making homemade apple cider:

Avoid using apples that have visible signs of decay or mold growth.
Wash apples thoroughly before pressing or grinding to make cider.
Use a fruit press or small kitchen appliances to crush the fruit.
Wash hands and sanitizing equipment.
Place washed and rinsed utensils and equipment in a mixture of 1 tablespoon household bleach per gallon of water for at least 1 minute.
Squeeze juice through a clean, damp muslin cloth.
Pasteurize cider to ensure safety. Heat to at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit and pour into warm jars to prevent breakage.
Store cider in the refrigerator for immediate use, or up to five days. Put cider in the freezer if you want to keep it longer.
Be sure to use strong, sound glass bottles that will not break during fermentation.
Boil unpasteurized apple cider before drinking it or drinking pasteurized cider or juice.

Caution: Young children, elderly and immunocompromised individuals should never drink fresh apple cider unless it has been heated to at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

After each day’s cider making, all equipment should be:

Rinsed with potable water to remove apple and cider residue.
Washed with warm soapy water and a clean brush.
Sanitized with bleach diluted with clean, potable lukewarm water in a ratio of one-tablespoon bleach to one-gallon clean water. All utensils and equipment that contacted cider should be rinsed with this sanitizing solution.

Learn more about steps that can help keep you healthy and your fruits and vegetables safer to eat at https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/communication/steps-healthy-fruits-veggies.html.

Free flu shots offered in Page, Arizona

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PAGE – The Coconino County Public Health Services District (CCPHSD) is offering free flu shots from 9 to 11:30 a.m., this Wednesday February 7, at the CCPHSD Northern Region office, 467 Vista Avenue in Page. No appointment is needed.

Influenza (flu) is still at elevated levels in Coconino County. Health Officials recommend that individuals who have not received a flu vaccination get one now. Getting a flu shot can reduce the risk of getting the illness and lessen the severity of the symptoms and complications associated with the flu.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a yearly flu vaccination as the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses. It is strongly recommended that everyone 6-months old and over get a flu shot each year.

It’s especially important that the following groups get a flu vaccination either because they are at high risk of having serious flu-related complications or because they live with or care for people at high risk for developing flu-related complications, including:

Pregnant women
Children younger than five, but especially children younger than 2-years old
Children with special healthcare needs
People 50 years of age and older
People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions
People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities
People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu, including:
Health care workers
Household contacts of persons at high risk for complications from the flu
Household contacts and out of home caregivers of children less than 6 months of age (these children are too young to be vaccinated)

Flu symptoms include fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, congestion, runny nose, headaches and fatigue. Complications of flu can include bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, dehydration and worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes and can cause death.

In addition to getting a seasonal flu shot, good health habits will help you stay well. These simple actions can stop the spread of germs and help protect you and others from getting sick:

Wash your hands frequently during the flu season.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Avoid contact with people who are sick.
Cover your mouth with your upper sleeve or with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
Don’t share eating utensils, cups and straws.
Stay home when you are sick.

CCPHSD offers appointments for Seasonal Flu Shot

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FLAGSTAFF – The Coconino County Public Health Services District (CCPHSD) is offering seasonal flu shots at the CCPHSD Clinic in Flagstaff. To schedule an appointment, call the Clinic at 928-679-7222 or toll-free at 1-877-679-7272.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a yearly flu vaccination as the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses. It is strongly recommended that everyone 6 months old and over get a flu shot each year.

The cost for a flu vaccination at a CCPHSD Clinic is $30 for adults and children. As a courtesy, the CCPHSD will bill an insurance company, but individuals seeking a flu shot should check with their insurance provider to determine whether they are covered. For people without insurance, the Vaccines For Adults/Children (VFA and VFC) programs are available to assist those that are unable to pay.

The following groups should get a flu vaccination because they are at high risk of having serious flu-related complications or because they live with or care for people at high risk for developing flu-related complications, including:

  • Pregnant women
  • Children younger than 5, but especially children younger than 2 years old
  • Children with special healthcare needs
  • People 50 years of age and older
  • People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions
  • People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities
  • People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu, including:
    Health care workers
    Household contacts of persons at high risk for complications from the flu
    Household contacts and out of home caregivers of children less than 6 months of age (these children are too young to be vaccinated)

Flu symptoms include fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, congestion, runny nose, headaches and fatigue. Complications of flu can include bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, dehydration and worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes and can cause death.

In addition to getting a seasonal flu shot, good health habits will help you stay well. These simple actions can stop the spread of germs and help protect you and others from getting sick:

  • Wash your hands frequently during the flu season.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
  • Avoid contact with people who are sick.
  • Cover your mouth with your upper sleeve or with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
  • Don’t share eating utensils, cups, and straws.
  • Stay home when you are sick.

Additional information is available at www.coconino.az.gov/health. Contact your health care provider or call the Coconino County Public Health Services District Clinic at 928-679-7222 or toll-free at 1-877-679-7272.

Increase in pertussis (whooping cough) reported in Coconino County

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FLAGSTAFF – The Coconino County Public Health Services District (CCPHSD) has confirmed an increase in pertussis (whooping cough) illness in Coconino County. CCPHSD is reminding individuals of the importance of vaccinations for both children and adults.

Early symptoms of pertussis are mild and cold-like, including runny nose, sneezing and coughing that becomes more persistent. Pertussis is easily spread when an infected person coughs. It can cause spells of violent coughing and gasping for breath in young children and can last weeks. Children often make a “whooping” noise when they breathe. This disease is most serious for babies under one year old, immunocompromised individuals and pregnant women.

Adults who get pertussis often have a cough, but don’t “whoop”. Unfortunately, many adults with pertussis are not treated and pass this disease on to others, possibly young children. Pertussis is easily spread from person to person. Transmission usually occurs by sharing close breathing space with an infected individual that is coughing or sneezing.

Any adults or children who have a cough that has lasted for over 14 days should be evaluated by their health care provider, especially if the illness includes coughing fits, vomiting after coughing, or whooping. Antibiotics are available to treat the infection and prevent further spreads of the disease.

Immunization is extremely important for the prevention and control of pertussis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend the DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis) vaccine for infants and children through age 6. Tdap vaccinations, which contain protection against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis, are recommended for preteens, teens and adults and should be given to 7 – 10 year olds who are not fully vaccinated against the illness. Pertussis vaccinations are required by the State of Arizona for school attendance. Please visit https://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/about/ for more information.

Pregnant women are encouraged to get Tdap with every pregnancy during weeks 27-36 regardless of previous vaccinations to provide optimal protection to the infant.

Adults who have close contact with infants (parents, grandparents, childcare providers and healthcare providers) should get a dose of Tdap. Getting vaccinated with Tdap – at least two weeks before coming into close contact with an infant – is especially important for families with, and caregivers of, new infants.

Vaccinations are available from healthcare providers or the Coconino County Public Health Services District Clinic, 2625 N. King Street, Flagstaff. Call the CCPHSD Clinic at 928.679.7222 for an appointment or for more information.

Covidien Initiates Voluntary Field Safety Alert for Multi-function Defibrillation Electrodes

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Sample photos from Coviden web site. For illustration only. Contact Coviden for exact models effected by recall.

Sample photos from Coviden web site. For illustration only. Contact Coviden for exact models effected by recall.

Dublin, Ireland — Covidien today announced that it has notified customers of a voluntary Field Safety Alert for certain Medi-Trace™ Cadence and Kendall™ Multi-function Defibrillation Electrodes due to a connector compatibility issue with Philips FR3 and FRx Defibrillators.

These electrodes will not connect with Philips FR3 or FRx AED units, and in the case of the use of Covidien defibrillation electrodes with the Philips FR3 AED units, could result in a delay of therapy. The FRx AED unit requires the pads to be pre-connected, and will issue a continuous alarm chirp to alert the user that the proper pads are not connected to the unit prior to use. The FR3, however, does not require pre-connection and the user will not discover the compatibility issue until the AED must be used. This may result in a delay in therapy.

Philips FR3 and FRx AED units should only be used with the Philips brand electrodes specified in the equipment manual.

Covidien has received two reports where customers attempted to use a Covidien electrode with a Philips FR3 AED unit. The mismatch of these devices contributed to a delay in resuscitation and may have contributed to the subsequent death of one patient.

Covidien alerted customers to the this issue by letter on September 18, 2014, and has revised labeling to clarify that use of these electrodes is incompatible with Philips FR3 and FRx AED units.

The Field Safety Alert requests that customers review the use of Covidien defibrillation electrodes in their facility to assure that Covidien electrodes are not placed for use with Philips model FR3 or FRx AEDs.

There are a total of 644,460 electrodes affected by this safety alert.

The following Covidien electrodes are affected:

  • 22660R – Medi-Trace™ Cadence Adult Multi-Function Defibrillation Electrodes Radiotransparent
  • 22660PC – Medi-Trace™ Cadence Adult Multi-Function Defibrillation Electrodes Pre-connect
  • 20660 – Kendall™ Adult Multi-Function Defibrillation Electrodes
  • 40000006 – Kendall™ 1710H Multi-Function Defibrillation Electrodes

In addition, similar private label electrodes produced by Covidien were also distributed under the following brands, and have the same connector compatibility issue:

  • MC1710H – MediChoice® Multifunction Electrode
  • M3718A – Philips HEARTSTART Multifunction Electrode Pads

The Field Safety Alert applies to all lot numbers distributed globally.

The Food and Drug Administration has classified this as a Class 1 Recall, the most serious recall where there is a reasonable risk of a serious adverse health consequences or death.

For further information or to report a problem, please contact Covidien Quality Assurance at 1-800-962-9888, option 8, then extension 2500 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. (eastern) or email Mansfield.productmonitoring@covidien.com