Dare County Department of Public health has scheduled a flu vaccination clinic for Southern Shores Volunteer Fire Dept. (across from Kitty Hawk Elementary School), Tuesday, Oct 25, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The cost of the flu vaccine is $32.  Cash check, Medicare, Medicaid, Blue Cross/Blue Shield are all accepted. Those with limited means may contact DCDPH at 475-5003 for information. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome.

Today, it is more important than ever to be educated about how to keep ourselves and our families healthy. Part of The Outer Banks Hospital’s mission is to enhance the quality of life of community residents by promoting wellness. That’s why we are offering our team of knowledgeable healthcare experts to come and speak to your local group or organization on a wide range of topics.

“The Outer Banks Hospital’s Speakers Bureau is designed to bring the experience and expertise of our healthcare staff to you,” said Amy Montgomery, drector of Community Outreach. “We can provide speakers on health-related topics of interest to you. We are ready to respond to your request, all you need to do is call.” The Outer Banks Hospital’s Speakers Bureau is a free community service that offers knowledgeable healthcare professionals to present educational and informative health-related programs on a variety of topics for employees, club, church, school or other community organizations. All speakers are affiliated with The Outer Banks Hospital and include physicians, registered nurses, dietitians, counselors, therapists, administrative executives and other health professionals.

“To give speakers adequate time to prepare for your event, we like to be contacted at least four weeks in advance during the off-season (October to April), and six weeks in advance during the in-season (May to September),” said Montgomery.

To reserve Speakers’ Bureau engagements, please call Amy Montgomery at 252-449-4516 or e-mail Amy.Montgomery@theobh.com.

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times may lead to death.

Most experts believe that flu viruses spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. Less often, a person might also get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth, eyes or nose.

Complications of flu can include bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes.

“The single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year, but good health habits like covering your mouth when you cough and washing your hands often can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu,” commented Anne Thomas, Dare County Department of Public Health’s director.

1. Avoid close contact.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.

2. Stay home when you are sick.

Missions of Mercy’s free dental clinic for adults will be held Friday and Saturday, Oct. 28-29, at the Dare County Youth Center and Family Recreation Center, 602 S. Mustian St., Kill Devil Hills.

Patients will be sign on a first-come, first served basis based on the procedure sought. It begins at 6 a.m. and will include cleanings, fillings and extractions. It is targeted to those earning less than 200 percent of the federal poverty level. Access may be limited by daily treatment capacity.

For most, an annual screening mammogram provides peace of mind. For some, the annual test that takes less than 15 minutes is a life saver!

Call your doctor today to schedule an appointment for free screening mammogram through The Outer Banks Hospital Development Council’s breast health program.

You are eligible to receive a free mammogram if you meet the following criteria:

• You Are a Dare County Resident

The Dare County Department of Public Health (DCDPH) recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses. This year’s flu vaccine protects against the three viruses that research suggests will be most common. Everyone six months of age and older should get vaccinated against the flu as soon as the 2011-2012 season vaccine is available.

The DCDPH has scheduled two flu vaccination clinics for seasonal flu vaccine. Vaccinations will be available at the following locations:

Baum Center (six months and up), Monday, Oct. 3, 9-11:45 a.m.; 1-4 p.m.

First Flight High School (three years old and up), Tuesday, Oct. 4, 3-5 p.m. (age differences are due to availability of vaccine for infants and very young children)

Appointments are not necessary, walk-ins welcome. The cost of the vaccine is $32. Medicare, Medicaid and Blue Cross/Blue Shield accepted. Those with limited means can contact the health department fat 475-5003 or more information or visit www.flu.gov.

AMANDA MONTABON, physical therapist for Dare’s health department, demonstrates the importance of removing unsecure rugs from floors.

Falls are the leading cause of fatal injuries and the second leading cause of non fatal injuries among North Carolinians aged 65 and older. Further, one third of seniors over the age of 65, and half over the age of 80 will fall each year. The Dare County Department of Public Health (DCDPH) invites the community to join them in recognizing Falls Prevention Week, from September 19-24.

To reduce your risk of falling, consider taking the following steps:

For more information on falls prevention, home care or community resources available please contact The Dare County Department of Public Health’s Home Health and Hospice Nursing Director, Ellie Ward at (252) 475-5034.

* Exercise regularly. Research shows that strengthening your legs, improving your balance and increasing your overall mobility are the most effective actions you can take to prevent falls. Many area facilities offer evidence based exercise classes designed to improve strength and balance. 

* Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your medicines. Make sure to have prescriptions and any over-the-counter medications reviewed to reduce side effects and interactions.  

* Have your eyes checked by an eye doctor at least once a year.  

* Remove unsecured rugs or other trip hazards from the floors of your home. Install grab bars near the toilet and around the shower or bath stall, and put handrails in stairwells or other risk areas. 

* Make sure your home is well-lit. As we age, brighter lights are needed to see well. 

* Use a walking aid if it will help your mobility. If you do use a walking aid (such as a cane or walker), work with a physical therapist or other health care provider to learn how to use it safely.

The GEM Center is offering families facing memory loss an evening out with friends Wed., Sept. 21..

September 21 is also the date recognizing the global impact of Alzheimer’s disease and is World Alzheimer’s Day. GEM will provide information about memory loss services and supports available in Dare County.

The group will meet Wednesday September 21, in Kitty Hawk, at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation from 5 – 8 p.m. The meetinghouse has an elevator if stairs are a problem.

The ev. Pat Haresch will welcome eveeryone to the meeting.

Marcia Bradley-Marshall, fitness instructor will offer a chair exercise class to help everyone work up an appetite.

Val and Tom Cummings are cooking an Italian dinner, complete with dessert

The evening will conclude with variety of songs including, “You are the wind beneath my wings”, performed by Angelo Sonnesso on the piano.

Families and individuals with memory loss are invited to come and enjoy fellowship and great food with friends both old and new.
The cost is $15 per family of two. If this is a hardship scholarships are available please call Gail for more information.

For more information or to register please call Gail Sonnesso, executive director at 252.480.3354.