News - North Georgia Health District

Details: Written by: Jennifer King, Public Information Officer; Category: Press Room

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Krystal Sumner, RN BSNBlue Ridge, GA – The North Georgia Health District is delighted to announce that Krystal Sumner, RN, BSN, who has successfully served as the Nurse Manager of the Gilmer County Health Department since 2016, is now also managing the Fannin County Health Department. This expansion promises to significantly enhance public health services in both communities, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to residents in Fannin County.

Public health in Fannin and Gilmer counties operates under North Georgia Health District 1-2 of the Georgia Department of Public Health.

In Sumner’s expanded role, she will oversee a comprehensive array of public health services available in Fannin County. These services include immunizations, Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) programs, STD/STI screening and treatment, family planning, and maternal and child health services, ensuring a holistic approach to public health.

“I am excited Krystal has taken on this new role in Fannin County,” said K. Mills McNeill, MD, PhD, Health Director of the North Georgia Health District. “The enthusiasm and commitment to public health she has demonstrated in Gilmer County will now greatly benefit the residents of both counties, ensuring they receive the highest quality of service and support.”

Under Sumner’s leadership, the Fannin County Health Department will more extensively provide essential public health services, including:

Created: 13 May 2025

Last Updated: 13 May 2025

Understanding Viral Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis refers to liver inflammation caused by viruses, primarily hepatitis A, B, and C. These infections can lead to serious health issues, including liver damage, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.

Hepatitis A: A short-term illness transmitted through contaminated food or water. It is preventable with a vaccine .CDC+1CDC+1
Hepatitis B: A potentially chronic infection spread through bodily fluids. Vaccination is the most effective prevention method .CDC
Hepatitis C: Often a silent, chronic infection transmitted through blood. While there is no vaccine, it is curable with oral medications .CDC

Alarmingly, many individuals with hepatitis B or C are unaware of their infection due to the absence of symptoms, underscoring the importance of regular testing .HHS.gov+3CDC+3CDC+3

The Importance of Hepatitis Awareness Month

Hepatitis Awareness Month serves as a platform to educate the public about the risks of viral hepatitis and the importance of prevention, testing, and treatment. It also aims to reduce the stigma associated with these infections, encouraging more individuals to seek testing and care .CDC+1HHS.gov+1

National Hepatitis Testing Day: May 19

A key highlight of the month is National Hepatitis Testing Day on May 19. This day emphasizes the need for individuals, especially those at risk, to get tested for hepatitis B and C. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment and preventing the spread of the virus .CDC+5CDC+5HHS.gov+5

Progress Towards Elimination

The HHS's Viral Hepatitis National Strategic Plan outlines goals to reduce new infections and improve care for those affected. As of recent reports:HHS.gov+4HHS.gov+4HHS.gov+4HHS.gov

Efforts are ongoing to reduce new hepatitis A infections by 40% by 2025 .HHS.gov
Strategies are in place to increase the rate of hepatitis B birth dose vaccination to 75% by 2025 .HHS.gov
Initiatives aim to reduce acute hepatitis C infections by 20% by 2025 .HHS.gov

These targets reflect a concerted effort to combat viral hepatitis through prevention, education, and treatment.

How You Can Get Involved

Get Tested: If you're unsure about your hepatitis status, especially for hepatitis B and C, consider getting tested.
Vaccinate: Ensure you and your loved ones are vaccinated against hepatitis A and B.
Educate: Share information about hepatitis risks and prevention methods within your community.
Use Digital Tools: Utilize resources like the CDC's Hepatitis Awareness Month Social Media Toolkit to spread awareness online .CDC+1CDC+1

Note

Our county Health Departments in the North Georgia Health District, which includes Cherokee, Fannin, Gilmer, Murray, Pickens, and Whitfield counties, offer the vaccine for Hepatitis A and B and testing for Hepatitis C. Also, Whitfield County Health Department offers treatment for Hepatitis C to local residents. Please contact your county health department for an appointment by clicking on your county's name on our home page at www.nghd.org.

Resources

By participating in Hepatitis Awareness Month, you contribute to the public health effort to eliminate viral hepatitis and promote liver health for all.HHS.gov+1CDC+1

Created: 01 May 2025

Last Updated: 01 May 2025

Details: Written by: Jennifer King, Public Information Officer; Category: Press Room

Family of four smiling, with parents holding their kids on their backs

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April 21–28, 2025, marks National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW), a vital annual observance dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of protecting children under age 2 from vaccine-preventable diseases.

Vaccines play a crucial role in defending infants from serious and potentially deadly illnesses. Since babies don’t receive their full series of vaccinations until they are between 15 and 18 months old, parents, caregivers, and family members must stay current with their own immunizations. Doing so creates a protective shield around babies while their immune systems are still developing.

Unfortunately, diseases that vaccines once nearly eliminated are starting to reappear in the U.S. Measles, which was declared eliminated in the country in 2000, has recently resurfaced in several states. Whooping cough (pertussis), another dangerous illness for infants, has also been steadily increasing for years. These troubling trends are largely linked to declining vaccination rates across communities.

Following the CDC’s recommended immunization schedule is the best way to ensure your child is protected from 14 serious diseases, including measles, whooping cough, polio, and more — all before their second birthday.

If you’re an expectant parent and haven't yet chosen a healthcare provider for your baby, schedule a visit immediately to discuss vaccinations and any questions you may have.

These vaccines are available at our Public Health Departments in Cherokee, Fannin, Gilmer, Murray, Pickens, and Whitfield counties. Click on the name of your county for location, hours of operation, and contact information.

To learn more and review the full 2025 immunization schedule for children, visit the CDC website or speak with your child’s doctor.

Created: 21 April 2025

Last Updated: 23 April 2025

Details: Written by: Jennifer King, Public Information Officer; Category: Press Room

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We will be CLOSED on Good Friday, April 18th. The North Georgia Health District office, health departments, environmental health offices, WIC program, and all other public health programs and services in Cherokee, Fannin, Gilmer, Murray, Pickens, and Whitfield counties will be closed. Clinics at The Living Bridge Center in Canton, Dalton, and Gainesville will also be closed. Have a Healthy, Happy Easter Weekend!

Find our services, locations, and contact information at www.nghd.org.

Created: 17 April 2025

Last Updated: 17 April 2025

NORTH GEORGIA HEALTH DISTRICT

NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

Strengthening Local Public Health Services: Gilmer County Nurse Manager Takes on Dual Role to Include Fannin County