Be Aware: Fires are Causing Poor Air Quality

Parts of the Blue Ridge Health District are experiencing poor air quality from local fires. The biggest health threat posed by smoke is from fine particles that can get into your eyes and respiratory system, where they can cause health problems. Fine particles can worsen chronic heart and lung diseases, but even healthy people are at risk for getting sick. 

We suggest that individuals monitor air quality to determine their individual risk.  

You can lower your exposure by: 

• Limiting time outdoors  
• Taking more frequent breaks from the outdoors  
• Avoiding strenuous activities while outdoors  
• Change the setting of any window air conditioning unit to “recirculating air" to avoid pulling air from the outside in 
• Wearing an N95 respirator while outdoors. Cloth masks trap large particles but will not protect your lungs from smoke. “N95” mask (respirator), properly worn, will offer some protection 

Find the air quality index for your local area here.

Be Safe: Thanksgiving Health Tips

Next week, and in the weeks to come, many of us will be sharing special meals with loved ones. While we are getting our flu vaccines and COVID-19 vaccines to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses, let’s not forget that foodborne illnesses impact tens of thousands of people each year. Since the tummies are rumbling, let’s make sure you’re up-to-date on safe food preparation for the upcoming feasts!  

Here are four simple steps to ensure you are serving safely this season: 

1. Clean: Wash hands often for 20 seconds with soap and water before, during, and after preparing food and before eating. Wash your utensils, cutting boards, and countertops with hot, soapy water after preparing each food item. 
2. Separate: Don’t cross-contaminate. Raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs can spread germs to ready-to-eat foods, unless you keep them separate. 
3. Cook to the right temperature: Food is safely cooked when the internal temperature gets high enough to kill germs that can make you sick. The only way to tell if food is safely cooked is to use a food thermometer. You can’t tell if food is safely cooked by checking its color and texture (except for seafood). 
4. Chill: Refrigerate promptly. Bacteria can multiply rapidly if left at room temperature or in the “Danger Zone” between 40°F and 140°F. 

Lastly, consider the chef’s health - if they’ve been feeling under the weather, let someone else prepare the food. One out of five foodborne illnesses is attributed to individuals cooking while sick! For more safety tips on serving your favorite family recipes safely, visit the CDC’s website on holiday food safety. 

Be Involved: World AIDS Day is December 1

December 1 is World AIDS Day, a day of solidarity and remembrance for people around the world affected by HIV. This day highlights the lived experience of those living with HIV, remembers those we lost, and encourages people to stand together in the fight against HIV.

The week of World AIDS Day, November 27 through December 1, our team will be hosting several events to provide free testing, resources, education, and more. Join us! To learn more about our sexual health services, call 434-989-3292 or visit our website. 

Be Excited: December Toy Drives & COVID-19 Test Kits

After a very successful launch in 2022, the Community Health Workers (CHWs) will once again be hosting their own Toy Drives this holiday season!

Each CHW has partnered with 1-2 local organization(s) serving kids in need within their localities. Donations can be made via Dropbox at each of the locations listed on our website. We will only be accepting new and unopened toys. 

Visit the CHW webpage for more information and flyers for each event in English and Spanish.

Be Informed: Updates on the CHIP

The fall is filled with progress and gratitude! 

As the Community Health Improvement Plan participants wrap up their first year of work toward their objectives, it’s the perfect time to send them some gratitude. Thank you to all who are leading, participating, and following CHIP initiatives to advance some exciting activities – big and small – that have a great impact in reducing health disparities in our community. Here’s a peek at some recent progress from one of our policy targets: 

Digital Access & Skills 

In September, we mentioned the upcoming UVA Telemedicine pilot project in Southern Albemarle. On November 8, the UVA Telemedicine team met at Yancey Community Center with 26 community agencies, organizations, and partners. Participants explored ways to improve health and wellness outcomes for Southern Albemarle Communities—with a focus on a potential Telehealth Hub as a solution. The 5-hour design-thinking workshop generated insights, ideas, and creative solutions to bringing healthcare services to our rural residents. Now, the UVA Telemedicine team begins its research and work to define the next steps and measure success. 

Learn more about this and many other accomplishments on our CHIP webpage!

Be Part of the Team: BRHD Job Opportunities

Looking for a new and exciting way to invest in the health of your community? BRHD is hiring!

Visit our job opportunities webpage for details on a number of openings that might be the perfect fit! 

Be Thankful: BRHD Office Hours

During Thanksgiving Week

Next week, in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday, BRHD offices will close at 12:00pm on Wednesday, November 22 and remain closed for the work week. We will resume normal business operations on Monday, November 27 at 8:00am.