by Kate Evans According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), measles cases are being watched in 15 jurisdictions: Alaska, California, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York City, New York State, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Vermont and Washington. An outbreak in Texas has infected[Read More…]
Health
Hahn is Maryland’s Family Physician of the Year
The Maryland Academy of Family Physicians (MDAFP) has chosen Matthew Hahn, MD of Hancock as the recipient of the 2025 Family Physician of the Year award in recognition of his exemplary service, and engagement in the wellbeing of his patients and community. Dr. Hahn received the award at the Academy’[Read More…]
One case of Measles confirmed in Maryland resident with recent international travel
The Maryland Department of Health and Howard County health officials announced today a positive case of measles in a Howard County resident who recently traveled internationally. This case is not associated with the measles outbreak in Texas and New Mexico. Out of an abundance of caution, health officials are coordinating[Read More…]
Health officials say Norovirus cases rising, urge caution & prevention steps
Amid an increase in norovirus cases across the U.S., health officials are urging residents to remain vigilant against this highly contagious virus. Commonly known as the “stomach bug,” norovirus spreads quickly in communities, especially in close-contact settings such as schools, nursing homes, and daycare centers. Nationally, outbreaks of Norovirus are[Read More…]
Health officials voice concern about surge in measles and whooping cough cases
by Kate Evans The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and WHO are warning about the substantial rise in cases of measles and whooping cough (pertussis) in the United States and globally. Health officials say inadequate vaccination rates globally has brought these childhood diseases back to the U.S. after[Read More…]
“Triple threat” illness season brings reminders to get updated flu and COVID shots
With flu season upon us and COVID on the move, it’s time to think about getting your updated COVID-19 and seasonal influenza shots for 2024-2025. Health officials remain concerned about the triple threat of COVID, seasonal influenza and (respiratory syncytial virus) RSV and other respiratory viruses during the upcoming holiday[Read More…]
COVID surges exist in many states; vaccines advised
by Kate Evans Many states across the country are experiencing a summer surge of COVID-19, including Western states such as Texas and California and some Eastern states like Florida and North Carolina that are showing very high levels of the virus. Nationally, wastewater viral activity from COVID is very high[Read More…]
Hot car temps pose seasonal risk to kids, loved ones and pets
by Kate Evans In this season’s persistent high temperatures, people are urged to take extra steps to prevent a hot car death tragedy involving their children, loved ones and pets. Nationwide, seven children have died so far this year from being trapped or left inside a hot vehicle, according to[Read More…]
Blood drive in Hagerstown set for July 16
The Washington County Public Safety Training Center will host a blood drive for the American Red Cross on Tuesday, July 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Blood donations play a vital role in emergency situations, surgeries, cancer treatments, and other medical procedures. By donating blood, you become a real-life[Read More…]
State health agency to hold public listening sessions on health department improvements
Maryland’ s Commission on Public Health will hold a public listening session for western Maryland on Thursday, May 23 from 5-6 p.m. in the Washington County Health Department’ s Behavioral Health Services Building at 925 N. Burhans Blvd. Members of the public are invited to attend the listening session in[Read More…]