Respiratory Disease Caused by a Novel Coronavirus in China
There is an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a new virus centered in Wuhan, China. Possible infections with this new virus are now being reported in other parts of the world. While there are a number of cases of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (now known as COVID-19) in the United States, the immediate health risk from this virus to the general American public is considered LOW at this time.
Frequently updated information about this virus may be found by visiting our Health Alerts page.
Additional Resources:
February is American Heart Month
Heart disease is the #1 leading cause of death in both men and women in the United States and accounts for 1 in every 4 deaths each year as reported by the Center for 
Disease and Control and Prevention (CDC).
Key risk factors for heart disease include exposure to tobacco smoke, physical inactivity, and unmanaged chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol, and stress. However, there is no need to stress, Howard County Health Department and partner agencies offer a variety of resources and programs that will support you and your loved ones to reduce your risk for heart disease. Visit the Population Health page for detailed information .
Seasonal Flu Vaccination Clinics 2019-2020
Seasonal flu can be serious. Make sure to protect yourself and your family by getting your flu shot!
Walk-In Flu Vaccination Clinics
Monday - Friday (excluding holidays)
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
For additional information visit our Seasonal Flu Information page.
Outbreak of Lung Disease Associated with E-Cigarette/Vaping Use
CDC, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), state and local health departments, and other clinical and public health partners are investigating a multistate outbreak of lung disease associated with e-cigarette product (devices, liquids, refill pods, and/or cartridges) use.
For more information, including symptoms, visit our Health Alerts and Recalls page HERE
For vaping and the effects it can have on teens and young adults, visit the Tobacco Control Program page.
(Information courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
Breaking the Cycle of Youth Suicide in Howard County
Youth Suicide Prevention Program Created - Uses Multiple Tactics to Help Save Lives
Suicide was the second leading cause of death for people ages 10-24 in 2017. In Howard County, suicide was the leading cause of death for youth ages 15-19 between 2014-2016. According to the Maryland Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 1 in 6 high school students and 1 in 5 middle school students have “seriously considered attempting suicide”.
An evidence-based Youth Suicide Prevention Plan, accompanied by an “It’s OK to Ask” outreach campaign, was created to encourage both youth and adults to talk openly about suicide and suicide prevention. Learn suicide warning signs and get tips about how to start a conversation by visiting teenhealthmatters.org
Phase Two: Sources of Strength
The second phase of the Youth Suicide Prevention Program began in November with the implementation of the Sources of Strength Program. Sources of Strength is a best-practice youth suicide prevention project. Student peer leaders and adult advisors design and share Hope, Help and Strength-based messages with youth in the community to prevent suicide, bullying and substance use.
How does Sources of Strength work?
- Creates an interactive peer leadership program that influences positive social change
- Empowers students to create networks of connection and resiliency
- Increases help-seeking behaviors
- Promotes positive connections between peer leaders and adults
Follow the HCHD Sources of Strength Program on Facebook and Instagram.
“It’s OK to Ask” and Sources of Strength campaign materials, information, resources and training are available at teenhealthmatters.org, or by contacting Kayla Blasher, Health Department Youth Suicide Prevention Coordinator at 410-313-6240.
If you, or someone you know is in crisis, contact: Grassroots Crisis Intervention Center 24/7 at
410-531-6677 or text HOME to 741741 (Crisis Text Line)
***For Media*** Suicide Reporting Recommendations
The Doctor Is In - Episode Six - Vaping and Teen Health
The dangers of vaping and e-cigarette use have been in the news almost daily for the past several months. Despite the dangers of vaping, teens are using e-cigarettes more than ever. In this podcast, we discuss the dangers of vaping, especially for teens and young adults, and what programs are available in Howard County to help those who use e-cigarettes quit their habit. being undertaken by the Health Department and partners, to combat the stigma surrounding mental health and how to take action to help those experiencing depression, anxiety and thoughts of suicide. Click HERE to hear the current podcast.
You can hear all of the episodes of The Doctor Is In at: https://dragondigitalradio.podbean.com/category/the-doctor-is-in