Press Release, Genesee & Orleans County Health Departments

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has designated January as National Radon Action Month.

According to the EPA, an estimated 1 in 15 homes in the United States have high radon levels.

“Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that seeps into your home through cracks in the foundation, walls and joints,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health). “It can also be found in well water and in dirt floors. Whether your home has a basement, sits on a slab, is old or brand-new, radon can build-up and go undetected.”

Living in a home with high radon levels can be dangerous for your health. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer and is estimated to cause 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the United States.  According to the EPA, because radon and tobacco smoke damage the lungs, high radon levels are especially dangerous for people who smoke. The risk of lung cancer is 10 times higher than for non-smokers.

Here are a few things you can do to protect your home and family from radon during National Radon Action Month:

• Test your home for radon. A limited number of test kits are available for Genesee County residents at no charge to them. Call the Health Department at 585-344-2580 ext. 5555. For residents outside of Genesee County, you can purchase a short-term test kit at your local hardware store.
• Contact your local schools to encourage radon education in school.
• Consider quitting smoking. Call the New York State Smoker’s Quitline at 1-866-697-8487 and talk to a Specialized Quit Coach today.

For more information about National Radon Action Month, click here.

For more information about how to test your home or where to find a test kit, call the National Radon Hotline at 1-800-SOS-RADON (1-800-767-7236).

For more information on GO Health programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org or call your respective health department at:

• Orleans County: 585-589-3278
• Genesee County: 585-344-2580 ext. 5555

Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments

A necessary stop for all drivers, gas stations provide consumers with more than just fuel. With an increased number of gas stations providing food, clothing, children’s toys and everyday household items, the need for customer awareness rises.

Below are tips for your next fuel stop:

• Do not smoke near fuel pumps
• Always remove fuel cans from vehicle before filling
• Be aware of your surroundings
• Drive with caution and slow down in parking lots
• Make sure the fuel nozzle is correctly returned before driving off
• Do not overfill your tank
• Do not wedge objects into the nozzle trigger to provide continuous flow
• Take advantage of store reward/loyalty programs

Click here to see local saving opportunities.

“We often see unsafe practices while inspecting gas stations. These potentially dangerous acts of negligence put everyone in the area at risk,” stated Ronald P. Mannella, director of the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) Weights and Measures Program. “Our goal of consumer protection reaches beyond your wallet. We seek financial as well as overall health and safety for all customers.”

If an incident occurs, notify a store employee as soon as possible. A swift response in an emergency may be the difference between a minor incident and major disaster.

For more information about the GO Health Weights and Measures Program, click here.

Press Release, Genesee & Orleans County Health Departments

Have you ever wondered how an item that is not good for our health becomes popular? One way is vendors that produce them use clever marketing tactics to make people think they are safe, popular, good for you, and a status symbol.

E-cigarettes or vapes are these types of items. Although there are some regulations in the sale of e-cigarette/vape items, they are currently limited. In the United States, the legal age to purchase any nicotine-containing product, including e-cigarettes is 21. New York State has also banned flavored nicotine vape products to address the use of e-cigarettes among youth.

“According to the Food and Drug Administration, e-cigarettes/vapes are not approved as an aid to quit smoking,” stated Paul Pettit, director of Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health). “There is limited evidence that using a vaping device will help smokers quit, mostly because the individuals continue to smoke or use nicotine replacement while vaping, which increases the nicotine levels. Other FDA-approved prescription and over-the-counter medications are safe and effective to help people quit nicotine use. The best way to reduce the risk of nicotine-related illnesses and cancer is to never start using nicotine products of any kind.”

Companies that market e-cigarettes and vaping devices use marketing tools such as:

• “fun” flavors
• deep discounts
• marketing materials that are “youth-oriented” and located where young people go
• brightly colored ads or bright storefronts
• using celebrities who use e-cigarettes

The companies use popular packaging that are attractive to youth such as: flash/USB drives, favorite characters, hidden in hoodie strings, highlighters, backpacks, phone cases, pens, or smart watches.

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to have honest conversations with youth about the issues and risks around vaping. Being aware of what is out there will take the glamor out of the product when talking with youth.

Tips on Quitting

• Pick a day on a calendar when you plan on quitting, let friends or family know.
• Download an app that helps you track your sober days, build new healthier habits, and provides motivation. Visit SmokeFree.gov for free apps to download.
• Get rid of all vaping devices.
• Understand what the withdrawal symptoms are such as headaches, hunger, trouble sleeping, and concentrating are just a few.

If feeling the urge to vape? Try these instead: Chewing gum or drinking water, exercise, yoga or meditation, and keeping your hands busy.

The sooner one quits, the quicker the body rebounds and repairs itself. For more help or information, contact your healthcare provider. You can also text, chat or call the New York State Smokers’ Quitline at 1-866-NY-QUITS (1-866-697-8487).

For more information on GO Health programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org or call your respective health department at:

• Orleans County: 585-589-3278
• Genesee County: 585-344-2580 ext. 5555

Modest changes can add up to big results for your body and mind.

By Lyndzea Corsetti, FNP, Oak Orchard Health, Brockport

As we kick off 2024, many of us are thinking about making a fresh start with our eating and exercise habits. Still, we’ve all seen family and friends who make New Year’s resolutions to change their habits but struggle to stick with them. That’s often because people bite off more than they can chew when it comes to making healthy changes. Making small, gradual changes can help you get big results over time, and they’re easier to stay with. Here are some things you can do in the new year to start making small changes that will pay off with major benefits.

Preventative medicine can help your overall health

Coming to the health center when you’re sick is important, but even more important is coming when you’re not. Be sure to have a physical each year and talk to your provider about what’s on your mind both physically and mentally. Are you planning to start or add to your family? Or maybe you’re not. Are you worried about weight loss or gain? It’s also the right time to discuss vaccinations, STD testing, and so much more. At Oak Orchard Health, we’re here for you. 

Drink more water (and less sugar and caffeine)

It’s no surprise that drinking fresh water is going to be healthier for you than drinking sugary drinks. It’s a good idea to shift some of those drinks to ice water instead. Even so, you may be underestimating how much water you need every day. Nutritionists generally recommend drinking about half your body weight in ounces (and don’t worry—not all at once, just one eight-ounce glass at a time). It’s easy to calculate: For instance, if you weigh 140 pounds, you need 70 oz of water a day. 

And if you drink caffeinated beverages like coffee, tea, and energy drinks, add 12 to 16 oz of water for each of those, because caffeine can dehydrate you. And while those energy drinks may give you a temporary boost, they’re not the healthiest choice. Want to scale back? Do so gradually and avoid the headaches that come from stopping caffeinated drinks too quickly. Just reduce the number of daily servings and drink water instead.

Reach for more unprocessed foods

Foods that come in boxes and cans often have a lot of extra salt, sugar, and fat. Whatever your daily routine—three big, traditional meals, six smaller meals—try to incorporate more fresh fruits and vegetables as much as you can. Coming off the holidays, this can be especially helpful after all the treats like cookies and candy and party foods.

Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments

Have you been feeling sluggish lately? Have you been told you are overweight? Has a healthcare provider told you that you have prediabetes or are at risk of prediabetes?

Do you have a parent, brother, or sister with type 2 diabetes? Have you had gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) or given birth to a baby who weighed over 9 pounds? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may be at risk of type 2 diabetes (Type 2).

The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) are seeking feedback from residents to help plan upcoming Lifestyle Change education programs in both counties. We are asking anyone who is at risk of prediabetes or type 2 diabetes to take a few minutes and answer some questions so we can schedule training sessions in Genesee and Orleans counties.

Type 2 diabetes is when your cells do not respond normally to insulin (insulin resistance). Type 2 is a chronic disease that affects the way the body processes sugar (glucose) for fuel (energy).  When a person has type 2 diabetes their pancreas makes insulin, but their body does not respond well to make the cells let the glucose in, giving the cells the energy they need. The blood sugar is not used and it builds up in the body.

“It is important to note that prediabetes (diagnosed with high blood sugar levels but not high enough to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes) and type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed,” stated Brenden Bedard, Director of Community Health Services for GO Health.  “Attending an evidence-based lifestyle change program can help people learn how to make healthier food choices, encourage them to be more physically active, and learn more about their overall health.”

We encourage residents to consider taking charge of their life and lowering their risk of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. Getting feedback from residents will help us design a program that meets their needs. The survey is quick and can be accessed by clicking here:

For more information on GO Health programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org or call your respective health department at:

• Orleans County: 585-589-3278
• Genesee County: 585-344-2580 ext. 5555

Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments

While the holidays can be a time for joy and celebration for many, it can be a time that is lonely, sad and stressful for others. This can be particularly true for people living with mental health and substance use conditions.

“It is important for folks to focus on self-care and seek support,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health). “We encourage individuals to prioritize their mental well-being and connect with the resources available in our communities.”

Here are some strategies to support your mental health:

• Connect with others for support. Meaningful connections are critical to our mental health. Make time for the important relationships in your life. Connect with yourself through self-care. When you are ready for help, reach out and ask for help. Help is available.
• Take care of your body. Eat healthy. Be physically active. Get enough sleep. Avoid alcohol and drugs. Spend time outside. These things may help to keep your mental health on track.
• Take care of your mind. Write down your feelings. Take deep breaths to calm your mind and slow your heart rate. Celebrate your small accomplishments, which can lead to larger goals.

“It is okay to not be okay,” stated Lynda Battaglia, director of Mental Health and Community Services for Genesee County. “Help is always available if you or someone you know is having a hard time around the holiday, or those struggling with mental health, substance use or feeling overwhelmed.”

“There are people in the community that are available to help,” stated Danielle Figura, director of the Orleans County Mental Health Department. “If you or someone you know is feeling lonely or missing someone, reach out to your local mental health department or someone you trust.”

The following are some mental health and substance use resources available:

• Genesee County Mental Health: (585) 344-1421
• Orleans County Mental Health: (585) 589-7066
• Genesee and Orleans County Care & Crisis Line: (585) 283-5200
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988 or visit 988Lifeline.org.
• Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 (press 1)
• SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) – A confidential, free 24-hour that can provide referrals to local treatment facilities and support groups.

To find a local treatment facility, visit FindTreatment.gov

To find support for issues with mental health, drugs, or alcohol, visit Samhsa.gov/find-support

For more information on Health Department programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org or call your respective health department at:

• Genesee County: 585-344-2580 ext. 5555
• Orleans County: 585-589-3278

Follow GO Health on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at GOHealthNY.

Press Release, UConnectCare

BATAVIA – During her 4 ½ years as an employee at UConnectCare (formerly Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse), Amy Kabel has worn several hats, and she has worn them well.

Amy Kabel

Hired as a peer recovery advocate in April 2019 to assist those in recovery from substance use disorder, the Batavia resident has been promoted to the director of Grant Management position – a job that is vital to the nonprofit agency’s mission to provide a wide variety of services to those in need.

“We’re excited to announce that Amy has accepted the position of director of Grant Management,” said UConnectCare Chief Executive Officer John Bennett. “Amy has excelled at every level, and the skills she has gained will make her a great addition to the management team.”

Kabel served as the lead peer at The Recovery Station on Clinton Street Road, a supervisory role, before accepting coordinator positions for The Recovery Station, which is under the auspices of the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports and for the Health Resources and Services Administration’s Rural Communities Opioid Response Program.

In 2021, she was promoted to assistant director of Grants & Projects, working closely with Rosalie Mangino-Crandall, the former director of Project Innovations and Expansion.

As director of Grant Management, she will oversee a team of about 10 grant-funded employees while searching for and writing grants to fund key programs.

“Fortunately, I was able to learn from Rosalie, who was a fantastic mentor,” Kabel said. “She set a high bar, and I will do my best to keep these programs going.”

Before joining UConnectCare, Kabel was employed as an aide on the surgical floor at United Memorial Medical Center and at Hope Haven, the hospital’s inpatient agency for those struggling with substance use.

She earned an associate’s degree from Genesee Community College and went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree in Community & Health Services from SUNY Empire State College. Kabel has a daughter, Madison, a social worker in the Buffalo area.

MEDINA – A nurse at Medina Memorial Hospital has been recognized for her 15 years of service and dedication to residents of the North Wing.

Nicole Chapman

Orleans Community Health has announced that Nicole Chapman, a licensed practical nurse, is recipient of the Caring Heart Award presented by the New York State Health Facilities Association and New York State Center for Assisted Living (Western Region Buffalo).

Chapman is often recognized for her dedicated work ethic and commitment to the residents of the North Wing, according to Scott Robinson, director of Communication, Marketing and Outreach.

“As a supervisor in the facility, when I see her on my schedule it immediately brings a smile to my face,” said Shelley Jakubec, registered nurse and nursing supervisor at Orleans Community Health. “I know I have a strong dedicated worker with a heart of gold.”

Chapman is regularly highlighted by her team members for her 15 years of service and dedication to the residents of the North Wing. She is very compassionate and kind, always willing to lend a hand and help out. She is described as having a very bright and warm personality, bringing smiles to many residents’ faces. Residents and staff look forward to the nights Chapman works.

“The reputation of the skilled nursing facility at Medina Memorial Hospital is because of the amazing team, which includes Nicole Chapman,” Robinson added. “If you’ve ever visited a resident at North Wing, you know the family dynamic that has been built by all of these individuals.”

Press Release, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer on Tuesday announced the launch of the Northern Border Regional Commission’s (NBRC) new J-1 Visa Waiver Program, an initiative the senator has long pushed for which can help recruit and bring more highly needed physicians to rural Upstate New York.

Schumer said the new program will help address the healthcare provider shortage in New York and beyond by easing the visa requirements for physicians who are trained in the U.S. and agree to practice in underserved areas of the Northern Border Region.

The northern border region of New York State includes 28 counties: Cayuga, Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Genesee, Greene, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Montgomery, Niagara, Oneida, Orleans, Oswego, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Seneca, St. Lawrence, Sullivan, Washington, Warren, Wayne and Yates.

Schumer said NBRC will recommend the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) waive their “two-year home-country physical presence requirement” for eligible physicians seeking to work at healthcare institutions and practices in New York and other states within the NBRC territory.

“This is just what the doctor ordered to help recruit more highly qualified physicians and a major step to helping address the national healthcare worker shortage we are seeing in rural communities across America and in Upstate NY,” Schumer said in a statement. “Rural communities from Penn Yan to Plattsburgh, know the struggles of healthcare worker shortages all too well. This long awaited initiative will help provide rural and underserved areas across Upstate New York with quality, affordable healthcare by working to address ongoing physician staffing shortages.”

The NBRC will consider recommending a waiver on behalf of eligible J-1 physicians who will work in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) and Medically Underserved Areas (MUAs). Eligible physicians will work in primary or mental health care for at least three years and 40 hours per week within a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services designated HPSA or MUA of the Northern Border Region. The program is modeled, in part, after the Appalachian Regional Commission’s (ARC) successful J-1 Visa waiver program.

Press Release, Genesee & Orleans County Health Departments

National Influenza Vaccination Week is December 4-8, 2023. This is the time of year to remind everyone that there is still time to get vaccinated against influenza.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine every year to reduce the risk of getting the flu and lessening the symptoms if you get sick.

The best time to get vaccinated is before flu season has started, but it is never too late to get the flu shot. Flu usually peaks between December and February and can continue into May.

“It is important for those at higher risk, including young children, pregnant women, adults 65 years and older, and individuals with certain medical conditions such as diabetes, asthma or lung disease, to get the flu vaccine,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health). “It is also important for people who live with and care for people who are at higher risk and those who care for infants under 6 months old.

Below are the number of reported flu cases for Genesee and Orleans Counties since 2019 according to the New York State Department of Health. It is important to note that during 2020-2021 there were significantly less confirmed cases of flu partly due to a heightened awareness of practicing precautions like staying home when sick, limiting social gatherings and frequent handwashing during the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic.

In addition to the flu shot, the following practices are recommended to stop the spread of illnesses:

1. Stay Home When Sick: If you develop flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, or fatigue, stay home to prevent spreading the virus to others.
2. Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water, and use hand sanitizer when soap is not available. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
3. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and manage stress to support a strong immune system.

To find a vaccine site near you, click here.

For the Wastewater Dashboard that tracks RSV, Covid-19, and flu in local sewersheds, visit the GO Health Wastewater Dashboard.

For more information on Health Department programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org or call your respective health department at:

• Orleans County: 585-589-3278
• Genesee County: 585-344-2580 ext. 5555

MEDINA – Orleans Community Health has announced major changes in their surgical department, with the departure of Dr. Todd Prier and the addition of three new surgeons.

As part of this expansion, Prier will leave the end of December to accept a position in Rochester, according to Scott Robinson, director of marketing, communication and outreach at OCH.

“We thank him for his time in our community,” Robinson said.

Joining Dr. Joseph Misiti in Medina’s surgical unit will be Drs. Devon Huff, Jeffrey Schratz and Robert Hodge.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Devon Huff, Dr. Jeffrey Schratz and Dr. Robert Hodge to our medical team,” said Marc Shurtz, CEO of Orleans Community Health. “This expansion of surgical services reflects our ongoing dedication to meeting the evolving healthcare needs of our community.”

Huff recently received his doctorate at the University of Buffalo. He then chose to remain at UB for his residency training and has remained in the greater Buffalo area throughout his career. He brings extensive experience in laparoscopic surgery and in advanced wound care.

Schratz is a distinguished surgeon with a proven track record. A native of Amherst, he attended Canisius High School, and then received his bachelor’s degree in biology from Williams College, before attending the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine for his medical degree. He completed his internship and residency at the University of Buffalo. Schratz specializes in general and laparoscopic surgery.

Hodge received his medical degree at the University of Louisville and completed his surgical residency at the University of Buffalo. He specializes in general and laparoscopic surgery. Additionally, he is certified in robotic surgery and minimally invasive procedures.

These surgeons will complement the existing team of healthcare professionals and play a pivotal role in expanding the range of surgical services offered at Medina Memorial Hospital, Robinson said.

The addition of these three accomplished surgeons marks a significant milestone in OCH’s efforts to enhance the healthcare services available at Medina Memorial Hospital, according to Shurtz. Orleans Community Health is confident the expanded surgical team will contribute to the continued success of our organization in providing exceptional care to our community, he said.

Press Release, Oak Orchard Health

BROCKPORT – Oak Orchard Health was awarded the Community Health Quality Recognition (CHQR) Badges for Health IT and Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) by the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA).

CHQR badges recognize Health Centers that have made notable achievements in the areas of access, quality, health equity, health information technology, social risk factors screening, and Covid-19 public health emergency response using Uniform Data System (UDS) from the most recent reporting period.

“We’re excited to receive this recognition, especially the Health IT badge,” said Karen Kinter, CEO of Oak Orchard Health. “With a vast base of over 30,000 patients in rural areas, technology helps us keep our patients healthy. Whether it’s by using our electronic medical records system or our patient portal, our providers and patients have access to information that helps Oak Orchard diagnose and treat our patients efficiently.”

Oak Orchard Health was awarded the Health IT badge because it met all the following criteria:

1. Adopted an electronic health record (EHR) system.
2. Offered telehealth services.
3. Exchanged clinical information online with key providers’ health care settings.
4. Engaged patients through health IT.
5. Collected data on patient social risk factors.

“Oak Orchard has been staying at the forefront of technology to document medical information efficiently and improve our access to patients,” said Jason Kuder, Chief Information Officer for Oak Orchard Health. “We encourage our patients to use the patient portal because they will have access to their medical information, be able to ask questions of their medical providers, and request medication refills. Telehealth has been a breakthrough for our patients because of the challenges many have with transportation and other barriers that keep them from coming into the health centers. Now they can receive medical or behavioral health care from home using their telephone, tablet or computer.”

What is a patient-centered medical home?

Oak Orchard Health has been a certified Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) since 2012. This certification means our patients can count on high-quality health care delivered with an emphasis on care coordination and communication. The focus is on comprehensive care which is a team effort. That team includes physicians, advanced practice nurses, physician assistants, nurses, nutritionists, educators, and care coordinators. Our Care Team’s goal is to provide each patient with the best care uniquely suited to his or her specific needs.

About Oak Orchard Health  

Originally founded in 1973, Oak Orchard Health has grown from a migrant health project into an integrated health center with multiple locations providing health care services including primary care, pediatric care, vision care, dental care, behavioral health, as well as nutrition and outreach services for everyone located in the communities they serve. Oak Orchard Health is a recognized patient-centered medical home and 501(c) nonprofit Federally Qualified Health Center located in the towns of Albion, Alexander, Batavia, Brockport, Corfu, Hornell, Medina, and Warsaw. With the addition of the Mobile Medical Unit and Mobile Dental Unit, we will further increase access to care for our patients.

Chart from Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments

Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments

The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) are alerting residents to rising cases of syphilis and congenital syphilis.

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is most often spread through sexual contact. Congenital syphilis is a preventable disease that occurs when a mother with syphilis passes the infection on to the baby during pregnancy.

In 2020, there were 12.1 confirmed cases of syphilis per 100,000 population and to date in 2023, there have been 33.3 cases per 100,000 population, which include confirmed cases and probable cases pending investigation. With a rise in cases, particularly among women, GO Health has also seen a rise in congenital syphilis cases.

Syphilis and congenital syphilis can lead to serious health complications, but they are preventable with screening, early detection and treatment.

“Syphilis is caused by a bacteria that enters the body during oral, vaginal or anal sex,” said Brenden Bedard, director of Community Health Services for GO Health. “It can also enter through broken skin that is exposed to the syphilis bacteria. Newborns can get congenital syphilis before birth or during vaginal delivery if the mother has syphilis.”

Signs and symptoms of syphilis may or may not be noticeable. They may include a painless sore on the genitals, anus or mouth; a rash on the body; tiredness; fever; sore throat; headaches; swollen glands; loss of appetite; weight loss; patchy hair loss; muscle aches and fatigue.

Oftentimes the signs of syphilis go away and the person does not have it checked out. If not treated for syphilis, an infected person even without symptoms can still infect others, including an unborn baby.

Having syphilis once does not protect you from getting it again, even after successful treatment. A person can get it many times, so that is why people and their partner(s) must get tested and successfully treated. If your sex partner(s) does not get tested or treated, you may get syphilis again. The longer the person waits to be treated, the more damage the disease causes to the body.

Syphilis can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm birth, neonatal death, blindness or deafness, bone abnormalities, skin lesions, developmental delays, and other serious health problems to a developing baby. The best way to protect babies from congenital syphilis is to get screened throughout the pregnancy and just prior to delivery.

Here are some ways to prevent the spread of syphilis:

• Not having sex (abstinence) is the only sure way to avoid infection.
• Limit sex partners, especially if pregnant.
• Use latex or polyurethane condoms each time during oral, anal or vaginal sex.
• If you or your partner have any sores on the genitalia, anus, or mouth, or unexplained rashes on the body, talk with your healthcare provider and get tested. Do not have sex until both partners are fully treated.
• Get tested often for sexually transmitted infections/diseases.
• If you are pregnant, talk with your healthcare provider about being tested to protect your baby.
• If you know someone who is pregnant, encourage them to get tested.

For more information on Syphilis and other Sexually Transmitted Infections, visit the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention website.

Press Release, Genesee & Orleans County Health Departments

The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) are alerting residents that cases of respiratory syncytial virus, known as RSV, are rising throughout Genesee and Orleans counties. GO Health has also seen an increase in the presence of RSV in wastewater throughout both counties.

RSV is a common respiratory virus that can be mild for most people, but can be very harmful and serious for very young children, older adults, people with medical conditions, those born premature, or with underlying lung conditions.

Symptoms of RSV include fever, fatigue, decreased appetite, coughing, sneezing and runny nose. These symptoms usually appear in stages and not all at once. In young infants with RSV, the only symptoms may be irritability, decreased activity and breathing difficulties. Severe illness can result in bronchiolitis, an inflammation of the small airways in the lung, and pneumonia, an infection of the lungs. Hospitalization due to RSV is needed when a person is experiencing difficulty breathing or is dehydrated.

A vaccine is available to prevent and protect against RSV for adults aged 60 and older, infants and young children, as well as pregnant people to protect their unborn child. If you are interested in the vaccine, you are encouraged to talk with your healthcare provider and for the best protection, you should get the vaccine as soon as possible.

To protect against all respiratory viruses including RSV, Covid-19 and the flu, practice the following precautions:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing/sneezing. This may prevent those around you from getting sick. Use your elbow or shoulder to limit the spray when coughing/sneezing.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. It is especially important to wash your hands after you have coughed or sneezed into your hands or blown your nose. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol- based hand sanitizer.
• Frequently disinfect shared items, like doorknobs, handrails, phones, pens, remotes, etc.

For more information about RSV, visit the New York State Department website.

For the Genesee and Orleans Counties Wastewater Dashboard that tracks RSV, Covid-19, and flu in local sewersheds, visit the GO Health Wastewater Dashboard.

For more information on GO Health programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org or call your respective health department at:

• Orleans County: 585-589-3278
• Genesee County: 585-344-2580 ext. 5555

Michelle Okonieczny

By Michelle Okonieczny, DNP, Oak Orchard Health in Medina

Not everyone looks forward to the holidays with a HoHoHo! In fact, many people find it difficult time of year. It’s my hope that this article gives you some advice on finding some happiness during the holidays and beyond, and knowing when to call your medical provider for help.  If you don’t have a medical provider or behavioral health therapist, you should call the Oak Orchard Health location nearest you. Having a medical provider that you can confide in is important to staying healthy and happy all year round.

Are you depressed or have the holiday blues?

This time of year is when many of my patients come in feeling depressed. Is it really depression or the holiday blues? We have so many expectations for the holidays that it can certainly make us feel blue. There is a definite difference between depression and the holiday blues.

Depression during the fall and winter is often referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD. It is thought that shorter days and less daylight may trigger a chemical change in the brain leading to symptoms of depression. Light therapy and antidepressants can help treat SAD. So be sure to get help. If you think you may be depressed, see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Medications and/or therapy can help you see improvements but expect your mood to get better slowly.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a functional disability meaning you find it hard to function – examples include getting out of bed each morning, inability to go to work, loss of appetite, and you may not feel like taking care of yourself. This type of functional decline is the difference between it and the holiday blues.

What are the holiday blues?

With the holiday blues you may be functioning, but you feel like you’re on autopilot and you’re very unhappy. The holidays can be a gloomy time of year for many people. My advice is to do something for yourself, something that you enjoy. It may be as simple as getting out of the house or visiting a friend or family member you haven’t seen in a while. Think of what would make you happy and put the date on your calendar to go.  Remember you’re not the only one feeling the holiday blues. Even if others have family and friends around, they may be feeling lonely. Don’t be afraid to reach out during this time of year.

How do I celebrate the holidays without family and friends around?

You’re not the only one in this situation! So many families are spread across the state or country that you may find yourself on your own for the holidays. How do you get through it without being down? Have a plan! Think about what you’d like to do that day. Are you going to cook for yourself? Enjoy a delicious meal. If appropriate, go to a religious service where you’ll see many smiling faces.

Plan on doing what you like that day. Love movies? Make a list of the movies that you can watch that day at home or go to the movie theater. Love football? Watch a game or two on Christmas Day. When will you take your walk? If the weather permits, get bundled up and enjoy the beauty of the winter. When will you call family or friends to wish them a happy holiday? Whatever you decide, have a plan, write it down, and enjoy yourself.

Get started on your New Year’s resolutions early.

While you’re planning for the holidays, think about your nutrition during the holidays and what you may want to do differently in 2024 to improve your health. Though the holidays represent only a few days during the month of December, people often find themselves overeating for more than that. If you’re the cook, have a plan for the leftovers. Give them to your guests or friends. It’s not realistic to think you won’t eat a piece of pie but keeping that pie around will be a very tempting sweet treat.

Knowing that you’ll be eating differently this month should inspire you to increase your exercise. A walk around the block or inside a department store during the cold weather are both great ways to jumpstart a new healthy exercise routine.

If you have any questions, please contact Oak Orchard Health. We are accepting new patients and now is a great time of year to begin a relationship with a medical provider. Call (585) 589-5613 or visit our website at www.OakOrchardHealth.org. We have health centers in  Albion, Alexander, Batavia, Brockport, Hornell, Medina, Pembroke, and Warsaw.