OWENSBORO, Ky. — Viruses that cause respiratory diseases, like the ones that cause COVID-19, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus, usually spread in the fall and winter. Anyone can get a respiratory virus infection, but some people are at higher risk for serious illness. As of Dec. 28, 2023, the Kentucky Department for Public Health, provided the following update for the state.
Respiratory virus activity including COVID-19, RSV, and influenza is elevated.
- Hospitalizations for influenza are increasing.
Green River District Health Department and KDPH recommend the following actions to protect yourself and others:
- Stay up to date with vaccines
- Stay home, if sick
- Wash hands often
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Consider wearing a mask if you are at high risk for serious illness
For more information https://www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/Pages/RespiratoryDiseases.aspx and https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/data-research/dashboard/activity-levels.html.
January is Radon Awareness Month and Cervical Cancer Awareness Month
- You may be exposed to radon and not realize it. Radon is a radioactive gas. It may seep into your home from the rocks below. It is the second leading cause of lung naturally occurring cancer. The Green River District Health Department has free Radon Test kits available. Contact your local Environmental Department to obtain a free test kit. More information can be found at https://healthdepartment.org/community-health/radon-information/
- January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. For more information go to www.kycancerprogram.org
- Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is important every day, not just in the heat of summer. Water is an essential nutrient. Water accounts for approximately 60% of an adult’s body weight. Optimal hydration is important for good health.