Norovirus-like illness
A significant number of people experiencing norovirus-like illness in Mesa County prompted the recent closing of Mesa County Valley School District 51 schools. Garfield County Public Health has received calls from childcare centers and workplaces reporting individuals with similar symptoms. Public Health is monitoring the outbreak; and encourages everyone to help prevent the spread of illness. People who are ill should stay home and parents should keep sick children home for 24-48 hours or until all symptoms resolve. It is not uncommon to see an increase in norovirus and norovirus-like illnesses this time of year. Norovirus is the most common
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Precautions for Ebola disease
GARFIELD COUNTY, CO – Garfield County is taking precautions following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmation of the first travel-associated case of Ebola to be diagnosed in the United States. Garfield County Public Health officials are in conversation with state, regional and local partners and stakeholders to address preparedness in the event of the disease affecting anyone in our area. “We have talked with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) staff, which receives guidance from the CDC,” said Yvonne Long, Garfield County public health director. “Locally, we are planning and coordinating with local hospital
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Mandate reserves federally funded vaccines for uninsured
GARFIELD COUNTY, CO – Garfield County Public Health (GCPH) can no longer administer federally funded vaccines to fully-insured children. The change in policy was the result of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) implementing changes to its funding of childhood vaccines. The CDC defines fully-insured as “anyone with insurance that covers the cost of their vaccines, even if the insurance includes a high deductible or co-pay”. Federally funded vaccines play a crucial role in assuring national immunization coverage and prevention of disease. With the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, it is anticipated that more individuals will have
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