RCAHD Health Updates Newsletter  10.26.22

Health updates for residents of the Roanoke City & Alleghany Health Districts (RCAHD) Forwarded from a friend? Subscribe here

Lead-Free Kids! Lead Poisoning Prevention Week October 23-29 Childhood lead poisoning is considered one of the most preventable environmental diseases among young children, yet an estimated 500,000 children under the age of six have elevated blood-lead levels. As we observe Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, RCAHD staff have joined with local government and non-profit partners to remind residents to take action to prevent and address lead poisoning.

While lead poisoning can affect a person at any age, we’re particularly concerned about the effects of lead in children. A simple blood test for your child can prevent permanent damage that will last a lifetime. There is no safe level of lead in blood. What health effects can lead poisoning cause? Which children should be tested for lead exposure? Read the Q & A on the RCAHD website

VIDEO: Hot Topics In Health "Lead Safety" Check out this locally-produced 3min video about keeping kids safe from lead poisoning, created in collaboration with Roanoke Valley Television (RVTV) and the City of Roanoke Lead Safe program.

Looking for a flu shot or COVID-19 booster?

It is safe to receive a flu shot and COVID-19 booster at the same time.  The best way to reduce your risk of severe sickness is to get vaccinated. Flu shots are typically available at no cost to the individual with most insurances. RCAHD offers sliding scale services to people without insurance. Flu vaccines are also available at pharmacies and doctors' offices. Visit our website for a list of RCAHD health department office locations near you! Walk-ins welcome while supplies last, but registration can speed up your check-in. Bring your insurance card!

This week's RCAHD clinics: Wednesday 10.25 Alleghany/ Covington Health Dept, 540-962-2173 Main St Missionary Baptist Church, Clifton Forge, 10-2pm Vinton Community Center, 1-6pm Thursday 10.26 Alleghany/ Covington Health Dept, 540-962-2173 Craig County Health Dept, 540-864-5136 Salem Farmers Market, 10am-noon Roanoke City Health Dept, 540-283-5050 Friday 10.27 Roanoke City Health Dept, 540-283-5050 Saturday 10.28 Melrose Library, 11am-1pm

RCAHD Newsletter Poll:

Are you planning to receive a COVID booster and flu shot this year? I have received (or plan to receive) my booster and flu shot Select COVID booster only Select Flu shot only Select I do not plan to receive either dose this year Select

RCAHD Health Situation Update 10.16.22 More dashboards at vdh.gov

We're Hiring! Would you like to join the efforts to help Virginia become the healthiest state in the nation? We are recruiting for the following positions: 1. Nutritionist Sr. - #07747 - Roanoke City - Closes 10/26/2022 2. Family Support Worker - #02575 - Roanoke City Early Intervention - Closes: 10/31/22 3. Nutritionist Supervisor Sr. - #RN046 - Roanoke City & Alleghany - Closes 11/3/2022 4. Program Support Tech (Billing Clerk) - (#RN022 & RN021) - Roanoke City - No Closing Date

Respiratory Bug Prevention Tips Get your flu shot and COVID-19 booster Stay home when sick Use your elbow to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze Frequently wash your hands

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