Tag: health

(BINGHAMTON, NY) – Each year, during the spring and summer months, the Broome County Health Department (BCHD) experiences an increase in bat and human encounters. The risk of exposure to the rabies virus through bats can be reduced by vaccinating your pets and maintaining the exterior of your home.

The need for rabies post-exposure treatment after a bat encounter can be minimized by safely capturing and testing a bat. If a bat enters your home and comes into contact with you, your pets, or is found in a room with a child or a sleeping person, it needs to be tested. Do not release the bat; capture it.

Bats can be safely collected by wearing gloves and using a coffee can or similar container and piece of cardboard. Take care to prevent further exposure and to prevent damage to the animal’s head. Once captured, contact the BCHD at (607) 778-2847 during normal business hours (8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday–Friday). If the bat is captured after hours, on a weekend, or on a holiday, keep it cool but not frozen (refrigerator temperature of 35-40 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal). 

If you see a bat in your home and you are certain that there was no contact with a person or pet (for example, if you saw the bat fly in the house and never lost sight of it), close interior doors, open the exterior doors and/or windows, and watch the bat until it leaves.

BCHD cannot assist in physically removing a bat. If you are unable or unwilling to capture the bat, contact a professional for assistance with removal. If the bat is not successfully captured, contact BCHD during normal business hours to consider the possible need for rabies treatment. There is no immediate need to receive rabies treatment after a potential exposure.

To view a video on how to catch a bat safely and find additional information, please visit broomecountyny.gov/eh/rabies. By collecting and testing the bat, we can avoid the need to unnecessarily provide rabies treatment, conserve limited vaccine supplies for true exposures, and protect the health and well-being of the community.

(BINGHAMTON, NY) – Since the Tobacco Control Program’s inception, the statewide average youth cigarette smoking rate dropped from 27.1% in 2000 to 2.1% in 2020.[i] However, there is more work to be done. 20.8% of NYS high school students still use tobacco products—primarily e-cigarettes at 18.7%.ⁱⁱ  

The fishing trivia game is a fun way for Reality Check youth to expose the lies and manipulation of Big Tobacco and mobilize the community on ways they can protect Gen Z from being the next generation to be hooked by these deadly products.

The Problem:

• One in five New York State high school students still use tobacco products due mostly to the use of e-cigarettes.ⁱⁱⁱ
• More than 80% of young people who ever used tobacco started with a flavored tobacco product.[iv]
• Youth who start smoking and vaping using menthol and flavored products are more likely to become addicted and become long-term daily users. 
• Flavored vapes and flavored tobacco products are banned in New York State but are still being sold in our community. 

The Opportunities:

• Federal law gives state and local governments authority to regulate the sale of tobacco products. 
• New York State law empowers local governments to pass laws to protect the health and well-being of their communities.
• Local laws banning the sale of deadly flavored tobacco products gives local municipalities the authority to enforce those bans.
• What’s more, New Yorkers believe in passing these important public health measures. In a recent survey of New York State residents, most residents surveyed said they support banning menthol cigarettes

• Participants can find out what communities in New York State are doing to reel this in by scanning the QR Code to visit The Public Health Law Center’s site for New York State specific information or by visiting tobaccofreenys.org

Reality Check is an advocacy organization that mobilizes youth against the manipulative tobacco industry by collectively working to educate our communities to help usher in a tobacco free generation. 

(BROOME COUNTY, NY) – Did you know that car crashes are a leading cause of death for children 1 to 13 years old?  Correctly used child safety seats can reduce the risk of death by as much as 71%.   Most parents are confident that they have correctly used their child’s car seat, but in most cases, there is some type of misuse present.  In Broome County, only 10% of the child safety seats that are checked by local Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians are properly used.   Common misuses include a loose installation, harness straps not being tight enough, improper location of the chest clip, use of an expired seat, unknown seat history, or using seat that’s not within guidelines for your child age, weight, or height.  That is why the Broome County Traffic Safety Program in collaboration with community partners will be holding a car seat check event:

Thursday, August 8^th

1:30PM-3:30PM

Visions Veterans Memorial Arena

1 Stuart Street, Binghamton

No appointment necessary!

These events will include free child safety seat checks by Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians, as well as free educational materials and guidance on child safety seats.  Participants should bring their child safety seat(s), their child/children, their vehicle, and if available the car seat and vehicle manuals.  Checks will be conducted on a first come, first served basis.  No appointment is necessary. 

For more information, you may contact the Broome County Traffic Safety Program at 607-778-2807.

(BINGHAMTON, NY) – The Broome County Health Department is celebrating World Hepatitis Day on July 28, 2024, by reminding everyone of the importance of testing and vaccinating for hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B is a virus that infects the liver and can lead to chronic infections, liver damage, cancer, and death. The CDC estimates that 640,000 adults in the United States have chronic hepatitis B infections. However, hepatitis B is entirely preventable with a vaccine. This year’s World Hepatitis Day theme is “Hepatitis Can’t Wait,” emphasizing the urgency of taking steps to prevent hepatitis infections.

The World Health Organization designated July 28^th as World Hepatitis Day in honor of Dr. Baruch Blumberg, who helped develop the hepatitis B vaccine. All babies should receive three doses of the hepatitis B vaccine, the first dose given within 24 hours of birth. Early vaccination is crucial because the younger the person is when infected, the more likely the infection will lead to severe complications, or death. Vaccination can prevent infection.

Hepatitis B is spread through bodily fluids like blood and semen. If a pregnant person is infected, it can be transmitted to the baby during the birth. Therefore, all pregnant individuals should be tested for hepatitis B, and those considering pregnancy should ensure they are up to date on vaccinations.

While there are treatments to manage chronic hepatitis B infections, there is no cure. Vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones.

(BINGHAMTON, NY) – According to 2023 Broome County Prevention Needs Assessment data, just over 10% of Broome County youth have used a vape in the past 30 days. This troubling statistic underscores the harmful tactics employed by tobacco companies, who entice our youth with sleek designs and irresistible flavors. Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids has an annual anti-tobacco awareness day called “Take Down Tobacco Day.” Each year, Take Down Tobacco Day is an opportunity for youth and community members to call for action that the tobacco industry discontinues marketing products to young people and eliminate the sale of flavored vapes, which are illegal in NYS.

Tobacco Free Broome and Tioga, alongside the Reality Check Youth Program, are excited to host a Take Down Tobacco Day Event on April 1^st at the Oakdale Commons. Through thought-provoking visual displays like “Air out Tobacco’s Dirty Laundry,” we’ll unveil the truth behind the tobacco industry’s manipulative tactics, shining a spotlight on their relentless pursuit to addict new young customers.

Whether you’re a concerned citizen, a parent, or a community leader, join us and learn how you can make a difference. For more information on how to get involved, please contact us via email at tobaccofreebroometioga@gmail.com or by phone at 607-778-2885.

For those struggling to break free from tobacco addiction, support is readily available. Contact your doctor for assistance with quitting or reach out to the New York State Smokers’ Quitline at 1-866-NY-QUITS or visit www.nysmokefree.com for guidance and support.

Let’s unite, educate, and empower our communities to Take Down Tobacco together.

Tobacco Free Broome & Tioga and Reality Check are funded partners of the New York State Bureau of Tobacco Control.  The Bureau of Tobacco Control implements evidence-based and promising strategies to prevent and reduce tobacco use and envisions a tobacco-free society for all New Yorkers. For more information, visit www.tobaccofreenys.com

(BINGHAMTON, NY)- The Broome County Health Department announced today the second round of grant recipients for Opioid Settlement Funding. Three Broome County organizations have been awarded grants ranging from $102,000- $150,000. This is the second round of these funds being distributed to various agencies across the county. To date, a total of $1.2 million has been awarded from the Opioid Settlement funding across the county to help decrease overdoses and save lives. The Opioid Settlement Fund was created through the work of New York State Attorney General Letitia James and her historic lawsuit against pharmaceutical companies that contributed to the overdose epidemic.

Marissa Knapp, Director of Overdose Prevention for Broome County said, “Fighting this public health epidemic takes a multi-faceted approach, and we are excited to offer our community partners the opportunity to explore new ways of saving lives, preventing substance use disorders (SUD) and reducing the stigma that often exists with SUD.”

The following agencies have been awarded funding for the second round: Family and Childrens Society, Helio Health, and Southern Tier AIDS Program (STAP). Projects being funded will address treatment, recovery, harm reduction, prevention, and education efforts in the community. Knapp reported that in 2023 we saw a decrease in both suspected fatal and non-fatal overdoses across Broome County. “We believe this decrease is due to the efforts of multiple agencies like the ones you see standing here today.” There has been a 24% decrease in suspected non-fatal overdoses in 2023 with a total of 351, compared to 2022 at 460 and a 22.5% decrease in suspected fatal overdoses going down from 80 in 2022 to 64 in 2023.

Broome County Executive Jason Garnar said, “As we continue to combat the overdose epidemic in Broome County, we are extremely thankful to the many community agencies who continue to work to save lives. These awarded funds will help our strong network of community agencies continue their important work by helping individuals with SUDs at every step along their journey to recovery.”
In March of 2019, the New York State Attorney General filed an extensive lawsuit against large pharmaceutical manufacturers which resulted in a settlement being awarded to New York State to address drug misuse, substance use disorders, both fatal and non-fatal overdoses and recreational substance use. Broome County was one of the first counties to sign on to the AG’s lawsuit.

New York Attorney General Letitia James said, “The opioid epidemic has ravaged communities throughout New York, including in Broome County. While no amount of money can make up for the lives lost and families torn apart by the opioid crisis, the funds we have secured from opioid manufacturers and peddlers will help our state recover from this crisis. I was proud to visit Broome County to help distribute funds in the past, and I am pleased to see local leaders take action to invest in prevention, treatment, and recovery programs that will help
save lives. Together with my partners in government, I look forward to continuing our fight to turn the tide against this public health crisis.”

(BROOME COUNTY, NY) – Broome County has received reports of increased suspected overdoses during the past 24 hours. The Broome Overdose Action Collaborative (BOAC) wants to encourage anyone using drugs recreationally, those using daily or those with a substance use disorder to practice harm reduction strategies and to not use alone, have a Narcan kit available, use fentanyl and xylazine test strips, and if you are on the site of an overdose call 911.

Both in person and virtual Narcan trainings are offered throughout the county. Having Narcan on site can save lives during an overdose. Community resources of free Narcan trainings are:

• The Addiction Center of Broome County: 30 State Street, Binghamton, NY, 13901. (607) 723- 7308.

• Binghamton University Faculty, Staff and Students can email Bennett Doughty at Bdoughty@binghamton.edu

• Fairview Recover Services: 5 Merrick St. Binghamton, NY 13904 Call Don at 607-821-7811

• Helio Health: 249 Glenwood Road, Binghamton, NY, 13905. (607) 296-3072.

• Southern Tier AIDS Program (STAP): 277 Main Street, Johnson City, NY, 13790. (607) 237-0497

• Truth Pharm: 49 Pine Street, Suite 6, Binghamton, NY, 13901. (607) 296-3016.

• United Health Services (UHS): (607) 762-2200. For UHS Addiction Medicine, call (607) 762-2901.

You can simply call, text, reach out on Facebook, or send an email and you will be connected with a staff member who will ask you a few questions and set up a training or train you on the spot. The Broome County Health Department would also like to remind those of the “Good Samaritan Law” which protects all involved when seeking assistance regarding a possible overdose.

Xylazine has often been found in the drug supply in Broome County. Xylazine is a non-opioid sedative, not approved for use for people. Xylazine can be mixed with illegal drugs like cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl to enhance drug effects or increase street value. People may not be aware of the presence of xylazine in drugs. If you encounter someone who is experiencing an opioid overdose or an overdose involving opioids and xylazine, call 911, administer naloxone, and provide rescue breathing. Rescue breathing is essential, because xylazine can cause breathing to slow down.

BOAC would like to remind those who use substances about the Never Use Alone hotline- simply call 1-800-997-2280 and speak to someone judgement free. Fentanyl and xylazine test strips are also available in Broome County. Community members can reach out to 2-1-1 for more information on how to get the fentanyl and xylazine test strips.

For more information and where to find phone numbers visit: broomecountyny.gov/boac.

(BINGHAMTON, NY) As we look to receive our first significant snow event for 2024 this weekend, it is a good time to remind the public to be prepared for snow, ice and cold.

Residents should prepare by creating emergency kits in their homes and cars. Home kits should include food, water and medication to last several days. Vehicle kits should also include a shovel, blankets and food as well as a mobile phone or other way to communicate. Both kits should include flashlights with fully charged batteries and portable chargers.

Residents should note that the term “Travel Advisory” means there could be dangerous road conditions, but you can drive with proper provisions for the conditions. A “Travel Ban” prohibits travel for all but essential personnel.

When the National Weather Service forecasts weather related events, it is important we listen to the timing and duration of the event, along with any updates. We have seen firsthand the unpredictable nature of weather systems locally and Broome County encourages its residents to always be prepared. You can receive local and regional weather reports at https://www.weather.gov/bgm/ or any local news stations. If you haven’t already, please sign up for NYALERT and 511NY at https://alert.ny.gov/ and https://511ny.org/ to receive important local alerts.

For additional information regarding extreme cold and winter weather, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/index.html

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (January 8, 2024) – The Cancer Services Program (CSP) of the Southern Tier urges women to get screened for cervical cancer. The CSP is supported with funds from the State of New York and offers screening to women ages 40 and older without insurance. New York State data show women without health insurance are less likely to get some life-saving preventive care services, like cancer screenings.

“Our program can help close the cervical cancer screening gap for women without insurance,”
said Laura Kelly, Program Coordinator. “According to the most recent New York State data (2020), about 69% of women without insurance have had a Pap test within the past three years, compared to roughly 85% of women with health insurance.”

This screening gap puts women without insurance at higher risk for cervical cancer. Cervical
cancer is most often found in women who rarely get screened or have never been screened.
Unlike many other cancers, cervical cancer can be prevented. Screening tests can help prevent
cervical cancer by finding the cells that lead to cancer. Those cells can then be removed before
cancer starts. Screening can also find cancer early, when treatment may be most effective.
Cervical cancer does not usually have symptoms in the beginning, which makes regular
screening the key to an early diagnosis.

In addition, most cervical cancers are caused by the human papilloma virus, or HPV. Being
vaccinated against HPV can also prevent cervical cancer, as well as other cancers.

“Some women are at higher risk for cervical cancer. Women who smoke are about twice as
likely to get cervical cancer compared to non-smokers, and cervical cancer is more often found
in women over the age of 30. We encourage women not to delay their screening and to talk to
their doctor or call the Cancer Services Program,” said Kelly.

For more information about risk factors for cervical cancer, visit https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/cancer/cervical/

To find a Cancer Services Program in your community, call the Cancer Services Program of the
Southern Tier at (607) 778-3900.
For information about insurance options, visit the New York State of Health: The Official Health
Plan Marketplace at http://info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov/ or call 1-855-355-5777.

(Binghamton, NY)– According to a report on the New York State (NYS) Tobacco Control Program (TCP), for every $1 invested in tobacco control, New York saves $11.[i] Data shows for every $1 NYS spent on the TCP between 2001 and 2019. The state spent $11 less in healthcare expenditures attributed to smoking. ^I  During discussions with Assemblyman Joe Angelino, Senator Lea Webb, Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo, and Senator Peter Oberacker, representatives with Tobacco-Free Broome Tioga addressed local tobacco control program successes and emphasized efforts to address high smoking rates among certain demographic groups.

Since the Tobacco Control Program’s inception, the average adult smoking rate dropped by nearly half, from 23.2% in 2001[ii] to 12% in 2021.[iii] The statewide average youth cigarette smoking rate dropped from 27.1% in 2000 to 2.1% in 2020.[iv] However, there is more work to be done. One in five New York State high school students still use tobacco products due mostly to the use of e-cigarettes.^iv While the overall adult smoking rate is at an all-time low, certain demographic groups smoke at much higher rates.ⁱⁱⁱ The fact is that 30,000 New Yorkers still die every year from smoking and secondhand smoke exposure.[v] And for every person who dies because of smoking, at least 30 people live with a serious smoking-related illness, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.[vi]

Despite the Tobacco Control Program’s demonstrated success and identified unmet needs, the state’s funding for it is just 2% of its annual tobacco revenue from tobacco product excise tax ($1.03B) and Master Settlement Agreement funds ($764M).ⁱ Further, the CDC recommends New York State spend $203 million on tobacco control annually[vii]; the state spends $34.8 million, which is just 17% of the CDC’s recommendation.  

Tobacco-Free Broome Tioga shared recent successes with state lawmakers.

• E-cigarette use, or vaping rate, among NYS high school students declined from a peak of 27.4% in 2018 to 18.7% in 2022—a 32% decline.^iv
• The NYS average adult smoking rate dropped by 15% from 14.1% in 2017[viii] to 12% in 2021.ⁱⁱⁱ 

They also highlighted areas of unmet needs.

• 20.8% of NYS high school students still use tobacco products—primarily e-cigarettes at 18.7%.^iv

Flavored tobacco products, including menthol cigarettes and cigars, pose significant risks.
More than 80% of young people who ever used tobacco started with a flavored tobacco product.[ix] In New York State, menthol cigarettes are used by over half of all adult smokers (52%), while 86% of Black and 72% of Hispanic smokers exclusively smoke menthol cigarettes.[x]

Support is available for New Yorkers who want to quit smoking and vaping.
Talk to your healthcare provider today! Tobacco-free living increases the potential for better health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs. When healthcare professionals treat nicotine addiction with medication and counseling, it can double or even triple their patients’ chances of success.[xi]

The New York State Smokers’ Quitline is a free and confidential service for all New York State residents who wish to overcome the use of commercial tobacco and/or vape products. Participants can receive individualized coaching and assistance with quit planning from highly trained tobacco treatment specialists, text and online chat support, and a free starter supply of nicotine replacement therapy medications such as patches, gum, and/or lozenges for those 18 and older. Residents of all ages may contact the Quitline for support and educational materials. Visit nysmokefree.com anytime, text QUITNOW to 333888 for more information, or call 1-866-NY-QUITS (1-866-697-8487) seven days a week, beginning at 9 a.m.