Public Health Perspective
Black American Contributions to Public Health and Health Care
Black History Month is a time for Americans to focus on the contributions of Black Americans to society. In public health, there are many current examples of these vital members of society. Dr. Patrice Harris is the current President of the American Medical Association (AMA). She has a background as the organization’s first-ever Chief Health Equity Officer.1 Dr. Harris currently spearheads the AMA’s efforts to end the opioid epidemic and has been chair of the AMA Opioid Task Force since its inception in 2014. Dr. Harris continues to lead the task force as it works across every state to eliminate barriers to treatment, provide patients with access to affordable, non-opioid pain care, and fight the stigma faced by those with substance use-disorders.
Two Viruses – Same Prevention Strategies
As we prepare for the flu season, the novel coronavirus is still spreading in our community. Fortunately, many of the same prevention measures you have been taking to protect yourself and your family from COVID-19 will help to protect you from the flu.
Fun and Safe Halloween 2020
Safer Alternatives to Celebrate Halloween Organize drive up trick-or-treating where neighbors set up candy [...]
Back-to-School Immunizations
The Health District, Immunize Nevada and community partners are holding a Back-to-School Shot Clinic on Saturday, August 22, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the agency’s main location at 280 S. Decatur Blvd. Immunizations are available by appointment only to ensure safe social distancing.
On the hunt to seek and destroy COVID-19
Having lived in Las Vegas for years, Jason Frame can’t recall a time when the streets were empty by day and had families cruising the vacant Strip at night—on bicycles, no less. The COVID-19 pandemic has turned the city’s usually bustling streets into a virtual ghost town. So far, 5,000 residents have tested positive, despite months of inactivity, with hotels and casinos shut down in attempts to flatten the curve.
Racism is a Public Health Crisis
As a public health agency dedicated to eliminating disparities and advancing equity in our community, we were heartbroken by the brutal killing of George Floyd. The violent methods used on demonstrators who were peacefully protesting, and the structural racism that has resulted in a disproportionate amount of death and harm in our communities of color are antithetical to what we stand for as a public health agency.
Taking Valentine’s Day to the Next (Healthy) Level!
Aaaaah, Valentine’s Day — a time to celebrate relationships with candy, flowers, wine, and food. This year we’re serving up ideas for a healthier Valentine’s Day that can be a gift to both you and your special someone.
About 2019 Novel Coronavirus
What should I look for if I or someone in my family visited Wuhan recently? If you or someone in your family has visited the area recently and you started feel sick with respiratory symptoms like fever, cough, or difficulty breathing within 14 days after you returned, contact your health care provider so you can seek medical care. Call your doctor’s office, urgent care, or emergency department before you to so they can make preparations for your arrival and take the necessary precautions to get you tested and to prevent others from being exposed.
Updated on: October 29, 2020