- Written by Georgia Department of Public Health
- Category: Press Room
Stay Healthy for the Holidays
Vaccination is Your Best Protection Against Serious Illness
ATLANTA – The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) is reminding Georgians that holiday gatherings, crowded travel, and more time indoors make it easier for germs to spread, especially those that cause flu, COVID, and RSV. Vaccination is the most important step you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Everyone ages 6 months and older should get a flu vaccination and updated COVID-19 vaccination. The vaccines can be given at the same time, so it’s just one trip to your healthcare provider or pharmacy. Side effects are typically mild and only last a day or two. If you do get sick, vaccination will help prevent serious illness or hospitalization.
Some adults may need an RSV vaccination, but it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider first to see if RSV vaccination is right for you. Pregnant women can protect their unborn babies by getting an RSV vaccination; and the CDC recommends an RSV preventive antibody for infants and some older babies at higher risk for severe RSV disease.
If you have signs or symptoms of a respiratory virus, like a cough, runny nose, or fever, tests can help figure out which illness you have. COVID tests are widely available over the counter, at health departments and kiosks statewide. Kiosks also provide flu tests. Your healthcare provider may also test you for flu, COVID and/or RSV. You can also discuss the best treatments available with your healthcare provider.
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- Written by Jennifer King, Public Information Officer
- Category: Press Room
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North GA - In honor of Veterans Day, we will be closed on Friday, November 10, 2023. All our public health facilities in Cherokee, Fannin, Gilmer, Murray, Pickens, and Whitfield counties will be closed.
Veterans Day officially falls on November 11th.
We express our deepest gratitude to all veterans for their service and sacrifice!
Thank you for your understanding, and we wish everyone a meaningful Veterans Day.
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- Written by Georgia Department of Public Health
- Category: Press Room
WIC NEWS ALERT 11/9/23:
On November 2, 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a notice to advise parents and caregivers not to buy or feed certain WanaBana USA products to toddlers or young children, because the products may contain elevated levels of lead. WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches, all lot codes and expiration dates, are affected. The company also initiated a voluntary recall of these products. These products are sold nationally and are available through multiple retailers, including Sam’s Club, Amazon, and Dollar Tree.
Consumers should stop using the product and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers can email the company at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
All WIC News Alerts in Georgia are posted at WIC News Alerts | Georgia Department of Public Health.
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- Written by Jennifer King, Public Information Officer
- Category: Press Room
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North GA — As the threat of wildfires continues in North Georgia due to current drought conditions, local health authorities are urging residents to prioritize their safety. North Georgia Health District officials highlight the significant health risks linked to possible wildfire smoke exposure and offer advice on protective measures.
Wildfire smoke, a complicated blend of gases and tiny particles produced when wood and other organic materials combust, poses a significant health threat. These minuscule particles can infiltrate deep into the lungs, leading to a variety of health issues, from eye irritation and a runny nose to chronic heart and lung diseases.
"Exposure to wildfire smoke can lead to severe health consequences, especially for children, the elderly, and those with existing respiratory conditions," said Dr. Zachary Taylor, Interim District Health Director for the North Georgia Health District. "It's imperative that residents take the necessary steps to minimize their exposure to the smoke."
Health officials suggest taking the following measures to shield yourself from wildfire smoke:
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