December
12/15/2011Health Department Annouces Bidder's Conference for Potential Funding Opportunity for Safe Streets Program
The Safe Streets Program is expanding and BCHD has scheduled a Bidder's Conference for January 18th, 2012, from 10:00 a.m. - noon at City Hall, 100 N. Holliday St., Curran Conference Room 4th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21202. It is mandatory that interested providers send one or more representatives to the conference. Interested bidders should RSVP their attendance by January 13, 2012, to Lori Toscano at 443-984-3566 or by e-mail at Lori.Toscano@baltimorecity.gov. To see the full RFP, visit our Grants, Funding and Requests for Proposals Webpage.
12/9/2011Baltimore City Health Department Releases 2011 Health Neighborhood Health Profiles
The Baltimore City Health Department today released the 2011 Neighborhood Health Profiles, a series of reports that look at demographic and major health outcome data for each of 55 Community Statistical Areas (CSAs) in the city of Baltimore. [Press Release (PDF)] [Baltimore City map with links to the corresponding Neighborhood Health Profiles] [Life Expectancy Map (PDF)] [Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)][Data and Research Page] [Healthy Baltimore 2015]
12/8/2011Notice of Fee Changes
In November 2011, the Mayor and City Council approved new fees for Health Department services and licenses. The changes in fees more accurately reflect the cost for those services. There are, therefore, both increases and decreases to fee amounts. The new amounts will become effective January 1, 2012. To review the changes, please review this flier.
12/7/2011Health Alert - Code Blue Activated For Tonight
Because an anticipated precipitous drop in temperatures and expected snowfall are a potential danger to health, Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot is declaring a Code Blue cold weather alert for Wednesday evening, Dec. 7, 2011. As a result of the Code Blue declaration, emergency shelters will keep extended hours. Emergency workers will conduct outreach for vulnerable residents. [Press Release]
12/7/2011Mayor Rawlings-Blake and Health Department Announce Code Blue Program for Winter 2011-2012
Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake announces the start of Baltimore City’s Code Blue program for the coming winter. Code Blue is a multi-agency effort to reduce hypothermia deaths this winter by protecting homeless individuals, seniors and other vulnerable populations from extreme cold weather. [Press Release (PDF)] [Hypothermia Prevention Flyer (PDF)] [Hypothermia Prevention Flyer (Spanish) (PDF)] [Snow Shoveling Safety Tips(PDF)] [Snow Shoveling Safety Tips (Spanish) (PDF)]
12/5/2011Health Department Offers Free Flu Vaccines During National Influenza Vaccination Week
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has designated the week of December 4 - 10 as National Influenza Vaccination Week. The CDC recommends early vaccination to ensure that as many people as possible are protected during the current flu season. The Health Department offers free flu vaccines Monday through Thursday and some Saturdays. [BCHD Flu Webpage] [Where can I get a free flu shot?]
12/5/2011Health Department Issues Request for Proposals for Provision and Implementation of Quality Management Software (QMS) for Environmental Health Division
Solicitation Number: B50002202. Due Date is January 18, 2011. The full request for proposals can be found on BCHD's Grants, Funding and Requests for Proposals Webpage.
12/1/2011Health Department Offers Free HIV Testing On World AIDS Day
The Health Department will provide free HIV testing Thursday, Dec. 1, at Coppin State University, from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. The B'more Aware of HIV: The Living Red Ribbon event also will feature a health fair, entertainment, refreshments and more. Plus, join us before 11 a.m. to register for the Guinness Book of World Records attempt (noon) at forming the largest "Living Red Ribbon" ever, with approximately 4,000 participants. [Event Flier] [More Information] [Picture of Living Red Ribbon]
November
11/29/2011Mayor Rawlings-Blake Receives Prevention Plan from Baltimore City Commission on HIV/AIDS
Today, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake received from the Baltimore City Commission on HIV/AIDS an aggressive plan to dramatically reduce new HIV infections, expand treatment, coordinate services and make a significant improvement to the status of the HIV/AIDS crisis in Baltimore by 2015. The plan adopts specific, measurable goals in four key areas and outlines a variety of strategic initiatives to achieve those goals in an accelerated timeframe. [Press Release (PDF)] [Targets & Strategies Fact Sheet (PDF)] ["Moving Forward" Report Summary (PDF)] ["Moving Forward" Full Report (PDF)]
11/21/2011New Family Planning Expansion Act To Make Services Available For More Low-Income Baltimore Women, Teens
A new bipartisan state law will provide free family planning services for low-income women in Maryland. Women younger than age 51 can sign up immediately, and free family planning services – including breast and reproductive cancer screenings, pelvic exams, sexually transmitted disease testing, pregnancy counseling, and contraception – will be available beginning on January 1st. The Family Planning Works Act enacted in the 2011 session now allows all women up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level – about $22,000 per year for a single woman – to receive free family planning services. Nearly 9,000 low-income women in Baltimore will be eligible for services. [Brochure-Adults] [Brochure-Teens]
11/17/2011Cigar Use Among Maryland Teens Threatens Gains In Tobacco Control
The Baltimore City Health Deaprtment joined with the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH) today in releasing data showing that the use of cigars has increased among Maryland youth, even while the use of cigarettes has declined substantially. The Department is launching a public health campaign with a new website, www.thecigartrap.com, to highlight the dangers of cheap, flavored cigars. [Press Release (PDF)] [Fact Sheet (PDF)] [Video of Depty. Commissioner Olivia Farrow's Remarks]
11/15/2011Health Department Welcomes New Directors of Office of Policy & Planning, Legislative Affairs
Commissioner of Health Dr. Oxiris Barbot is pleased to announce two new appointments in the Health Department’s Office of Policy & Planning. [Press Release (PDF)]
11/9/2011New York Firm Recalls Broiled Chicken Liver Products Linked to Salmonellosis Illnesses
Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service announced that Schreiber Processing Corporation, a New York company, is recalling an undetermined amount of broiled chicken liver products that are linked to a cluster of Salmonellosis illnesses. The Health Department was notified that the recalled products may have been shipped to a local City distribution center. The Department visited the business this morning and ensured that all possible contaminated products have been discarded. [View the USDA Press Release]
11/3/2011BCHD Launches Operation Safe Pets
Today the Health Department's Animal Control Program launched Operation Healthy Pets. Animal Enforcement Officers will conduct targeted community enforcement, education, outreach and animal welfare checks in three city zip codes _ 21225, 21216 and 21213 _ where there is the greatest concentration of service requests. Officers will be proactively assessing the community’s animal needs in an effort to link residents with available services. Officers also will provide educational materials and issue citations, if necessary. The goal of Operation Healthy Pets is to raise awareness within these targeted communities to reduce future service needs. [Download an Operation Healthy Pets informational flyer]
October
10/31/2011BCHD's Offers Halloween Candy Safety Tips
Go Trick or Treating this year with peace of mind. Review our Halloween Candy Safety Tips before letting your child dig into his or her loot. [Flyer]
10/24/2011Mayor Rawlings-Blake Announces Baltimore’s Efforts to Improve Resident’s Access to Healthy, Affordable Food
Today, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake gathered with city agency heads, representatives of the United Way of Central Maryland, urban farmers and healthy food advocates to commemorate the country’s first national Food Day. The Mayor announced a series of planned events which celebrate the many healthy, affordable and sustainable food initiatives taking place in Baltimore City. [Press Release (PDF)]
10/20/2011Baltimore City Health Department Releases Latino Health Report
The Baltimore City Health Department is releasing a new report, The Health of Latinos in Baltimore City, today. This is the first time a report specific to the health of Latinos is being released in Baltimore City. The report examines the health status and trends among Baltimore’s Latino residents. [Press Release (PDF)] [The Health of Latinos in Baltimore City 2011 (PDF)] [La Salud de los Latinos en la Ciudad de Baltimore 2011 (PDF)]
10/18/2011Mayor Rawlings-Blake and Representative Sarbanes Announce EPA Grant to Promote Healthy Environments for City Kids
Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake was joined today by Shawn Garvin, administrator for the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Mid-Atlantic region, Congressman John Sarbanes, and Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot to celebrate Children’s Health Month. The Mayor was presented with a check from Mr. Garvin for $100,000 to fund the Healthy Environments for City Kids Initiative. The Baltimore City Health Department was one of 13 organizations selected from 263 applicants across the country to receive a grant from EPA’s Office of Children’s Health Protection to reduce children’s exposure to environmental hazards.[Press Release (PDF)] [HECK Program FAQ (PDF)]
10/18/2011Medicare Open Enrollment is October 15 - December 7
Starting this year, Open Enrollment starts earlier - on October 15th - and lasts longer (7 full weeks) to give you enough time to review and make changes to your coverage. For more information, please review this article. or visit the Medicare Website.
10/15/2011September Restaurant Closures Posted
The Food Control Section licenses and regulates over 5,000 food facilities in Baltimore City. Each month sanitarians from the Bureau of Environmental Health inspect more than 280 food establishments in Baltimore City. A list of recent closures for health code violations is updated monthly and can be found here.
10/5/2011Health Officials Unveil “Just Hold Off” Campaign to Protect Pregnant Women, Infants From Dangerous Second-Hand Smoke
Commissioner of Health Dr. Oxiris Barbot, the Family League of Baltimore and leaders of the B’more for Healthy Babies campaign to reduce infant mortality announce the “Just Hold Off” campaign to protect infants and pregnant women from dangerous second-hand tobacco smoke. The announcement took place at the National Aquarium during a second-annual remembrance ceremony to honor all Baltimore City infants who have died.[Press Release (PDF)] [Birth Outcome Webpage]
10/3/2011Mayor Rawlings-Blake Kicks-Off Healthy City Days
Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake was joined by Congressman John Sarbanes, City Council Members Clark, Cole, Henry and Spector, Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot, residents, and City employees for a walk and rally to kick-off the 2nd annual Healthy City Days, a city-wide health initiative. Healthy City Days is a weeklong campaign aimed at providing Baltimore residents with multiple opportunities to engage in and be educated about healthy lifestyle choices. [Press Release (PDF)] [Healthy City Days Webpage]
September
9/29/2011B’more for Healthy Babies Campaign Receives Two Grants to Improve Maternal and Child Health in Baltimore City
Pregnant women, new parents and newborn babies in Baltimore City will benefit from two new grants totaling more than $2.2 million awarded to the citywide B’more for Healthy Babies campaign [Press Release (PDF)] [B'more for Healthy Babies Webpage]
9/29/2011Baltimore City Health Department’s Safe Streets Program Awarded $2.2 million to Add Two New Locations
Safe Streets, a Baltimore City-based violence prevention program, has received a $2.2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP). The award will be used to support existing operations and expand the program to two new locations. [Press Release (PDF)] [Safe Streets Webpage]
9/29/2011Seasonal Flu Vaccination Information and Clinic Locations Updated
Flu Season is upon us. The CDC recommends everyone age 6 months and above receive a seasonal flu shot each fall. This year's vaccine protects against three strains of influenza virus, including H1N1, which continues to circulate worldwide and cause illness. To find the clinic location nearest you, call 311, or check our print schedules. [BCHD Flu Webpage] [Where can I get a free flu shot?]
9/27/2011State Requests Public Comment on Proposal to Ban Sale of Crib Bumper Pads in Maryland
The Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene today announced that it will publish for public comment a proposal to ban the sale of crib bumper pads for infants starting in January 2013. The Department also released a document summarizing the evidence and providing the basis for its action. The proposed ban is part of a broader effort to promote safe sleep for infants by encouraging the ABCs: Babies should sleep Alone, on their Backs and in a Crib. [DHMH Press Release] [Dr. Barbot's Blog Post]
9/22/2011Multistate Outbreak of Listeriosis Linked to Whole Cantaloupes from Jensen Farms, Colorado
CDC is collaborating with public health officials in several states, including Maryland, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate a multistate outbreak of listeriosis. For the latest informational updates, or for general information about listeriosis, consumers and other concerned persons can visit the CDC's Webpage.
9/20/2011August Restaurant Closures Posted
The Food Control Section licenses and regulates over 5,000 food facilities in Baltimore City. Each month sanitarians from the Bureau of Environmental Health inspect more than 280 food establishments in Baltimore City. A list of recent closures for health code violations is updated monthly and can be found here.
9/16/2011BCHD Urges Parents and Caregivers to Get Their Car Seats Inspected
Child Passenger Safety Week is September 18-24. Make sure your child's car seat is installed correctly on National Seat Check Saturday, Saturday, Sept. 24th, from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the State Center Visitor's Parking Lot, 300 W. Preston St. [9/24 Event Flyer] [BCFD Seat Check Dates Flyer]
9/14/2011Baltimore City Health Department’s Office of Youth Violence Prevention Awarded $1.75 million to Prevent Teen Dating Violence
The Baltimore City Health Department is receiving a grant for $1.75 million from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to participate in a violence prevention initiative aimed at preventing teen dating violence. The grant covers five years.[Press Release (PDF)] [Dating Matters Fact Sheet (PDF)] [Dating Matters FAQ (PDF)]
9/13/2011Seniors Offered Free HIV Testing During National HIV/AIDS Aging and Awareness Day Events
The Baltimore City Health Department’s Office of Aging & CARE Services is partnering with the Maryland Department of Health & Mental Hygiene, Older Women Embracing Life (OWEL) and the Johns Hopkins Local Performance Site of the PA/MidAtlantic AIDS Education and Training Center (AETC) to observe National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day on Friday, Sept. 16th. [Press Release (PDF)]
9/12/2011Dr. Alberta Ferrari Named Acting Director of the Ryan White Part A Program
Commissioner of Health Dr. Oxiris Barbot has named Dr. Alberta Ferrari acting director of the Health Department's Ryan White program. Dr. Ferrari has served as assistant program director for administration within the Ryan White program since 2006. [Press Release (PDF)]
9/8/2011New Educational Video Promotes Integrated Pest Management Practices
The Bureau of Healthy Homes recently produced a new educational video on the benefits of using an integrated pest managment approach to getting rid of household pests like roaches and mice. Integrated pest management is a healthy, effective and inexpensive way to keep pests out. [Video] [Integrated Pest Management Webpage]
August
8/24/2011Baltimore City Announces 19% Decrease In Infant Mortality for 2010
Governor Martin O'Malley today joined by Lt. Governor Anthony G. Brown, Baltimore City Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, and other state and local officials, announced that Maryland's infant mortality rate has dropped substantially for a second consecutive year to the lowest rate recorded for the State. Reducing infant mortality is one of the O'Malley-Brown Administration's 15 strategic goals to improve the quality of life in Maryland. [Press Release (PDF)] [Infant Mortality Fact Sheet (PDF)] [Dr. Barbot's Blog][Video of Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake's Remarks]
8/18/2011Health Department Sees Large Increase In Rabid Bats Captured In City Homes
The Baltimore City Health Department is reporting a large increase in rabid bats this summer. Through Aug. 12th, Animal Control has captured 183 bats, 12 of which have tested positive for rabies. For all of 2010, 222 bats were seized, 11 of which were rabid. [Press Release (PDF)] [Audio Q&A - Rabid Bats (WBAL 1090 AM MP3)] [Animal Protection and Safety Webpage]
8/7/2011Health Department Promotes World Breastfeeding Week at Druid Hill Park
In celebration of World Breastfeeding Week, Deputy Chief of Staff Thomasina Hiers of the Baltimore City Mayor’s Office announced the city’s commitment to the protection, support and promotion of breastfeeding at the 2nd annual Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Breastfeeding 3K Walk/Run and Community Health Fair at Druid Hill Park. [Press Release (PDF)]
8/1/2011Code Red Heat Alert Issued for Monday, Aug. 1, 2011
Because of predicted high temperatures and potential danger, Commissioner of Health Dr. Oxiris Barbot is declaring Monday, Aug. 1st, a Code Red Heat Alert day. Baltimore City will open emergency cooling centers. Each center will have cool air and free water. [8/1 Code Red Heat Alert] [Code Red Webpage with Cooling Center Map]
July
7/28/2011Health Department Releases 2009 Annual Drug Intoxication Mortality Report
The Baltimore City Health Department, together with Baltimore Substance Abuse Systems, announces the release of a joint annual report on intoxication deaths associated with drugs of abuse and alcohol. The report includes totals for calendar year 2009. [7/28 Press Release (PDF)] [2009 Intoxication Deaths Associated with Drugs of Abuse or Alcohol 2009 Annual Report (PDF)]
7/20/2011Baltimore City To Open Additional Cooling Centers As Extreme Heat Nears
In response to the extreme air temperatures, Baltimore City is opening additional cooling centers and taking other measures to provide cooling relief to vulnerable populations. A Code Red Heat Alert is in effect for Baltimore City through Sunday. [7/20 Code Red Heat Alert] [Code Red Webpage]] [7/20 Updated Cooling Center map]
7/20/2011Health Department Reminds Citizens To Care For Pets During Extreme Heat
Over the next several days, Baltimore City will experience an extreme heat event that could lead to loss of life. It is imperative that residents, including our animal friends, stay cool and hydrated during these hot days. [7/20 Code Red Heat Alert for Pets (PDF)] [Animal Control Webpage]
7/19/2011Code Red Heat Alert Issued for Today Through Sunday, July 24th
Because of predicted high temperatures and potential danger, Commissioner of Health Dr. Oxiris Barbot is declaring Tuesday, July 19 through Sunday, July 24, Code Red Heat Alert days. Baltimore City will open emergency cooling centers. Each center will have cool air and free water. [7/19 Code Red Heat Alert] [Code Red Webpage with Cooling Center Map]
7/13/2011Cat Found to Have Rabies in Baltimore City
The Baltimore City Health Department has confirmed a positive case of rabies in a domestic, short hair feline. The female cat was found July 7th on the side of the road in the 400 block of Kingston Avenue, just east of the Baltimore City/County line. The cat, a stray, was injured and immediately euthanized upon being taken to a veterinarian by a resident. [7/13 Press Release (PDF)] [CDC's Rabies Fact Sheet]
7/11/2011Code Red Heat Alert Issued for Today, Tuesday
Because of predicted high temperatures and potential danger, Commissioner of Health Dr. Oxiris Barbot is declaring Monday, July 11, and Tuesday, July 12, Code Red Heat Alert days. Baltimore City will open emergency cooling centers. Each center will have cool air and free water. [7/11 Code Red Heat Alert] [Code Red Webpage with Cooling Center Map]
June
6/14/2011Health Department Testing Reveals Items of Children’s Jewelry With Excess Lead
The Baltimore City Health Department has issued violation notices to three businesses prohibiting the sale of items of children’s jewelry that were identified with a lead level in metal components above 300 parts per million (ppm). [6/14 Lead Press Release]
6/7/2011Code Red Heat Alert In Effect For Wednesday, June 8, and Thursday, June 9
Because of predicted high temperatures and potential danger, Commissioner of Health Dr. Oxiris Barbot is declaring Wednesday, June 8th, and Thursday, June 9th, Code Red Heat Alert days. [ 6/08 Press Release (PDF)] [Code Red Webpage]
6/2/2011Innovative Virtual Supermarket Program Adds Option for Remote Grocery Ordering
The Baltimore City Health Department’s Baltimarket – Virtual Supermarket Program (VSP) is making it even easier for residents to order groceries online and have them delivered to one of four local Enoch Pratt Free Library branches or school pickup sites. [See Full 6/2 News Release] [Virtual Supermarket Webpage]
May
5/31/2011Code Red Heat Alert Extended Through Wednesday, June 1st, at 8:00 p.m.
Because of predicted high temperatures and potential danger, Commissioner of Health Dr. Oxiris Barbot is declaring Wednesday, June 1st, a Code Red Heat Alert day. Baltimore City will open emergency cooling centers. Each center will have cool air and free water. [5/31 Press Release (PDF)] [Code Red Webpage]
5/31/2011Health Department Observes World No Tobacco Day
Baltimore City Commissioner of Health Dr. Oxiris Barbot today called on residents to join the global community in commemorating World No Tobacco Day, held each May 31st. [5/31 Press Release (PDF)]
5/27/2011Baltimore City Launches 2011 Code Red Heat Alert Plan
Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake joined city agency leaders to announce the 2011 Code Red Heat Alert initiative, a multi-agency, coordinated approach to providing cooling relief to vulnerable populations in Baltimore City during a heat crisis. [5/27 Press Release (PDF)] [Code Red Webpage]
5/25/2011Baltimore City Health Department Joins With Maryland Hepatitis Coalition to Commemorate National Hepatitis Awareness Month
The Baltimore City Health Department joined today with members of the Maryland Hepatitis Coalition (MHC) and state and local officials to recognize National Hepatitis Awareness Month. MHC honored four Hepatitis Heroes, individuals that are involved with the care of vulnerable populations in viral hepatitis prevention and/or treatment, as well as Del. Shirley Nathan-Pulliam, who has been an advocate for the prevention and treatment of viral hepatitis. [5/25 Press Release (PDF)]
5/18/2011Health Department Receives 2011 Maryland Initiative Grant From The Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy
The Baltimore City Health Department is one of 13 local organizations serving low-income, low-literacy Maryland residents to receive a grant from the 2011 Maryland Family Literacy Initiative, part of the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy. [5/18 Press Release (PDF)]
5/18/2011Health Department Testing Reveals Items of Children’s Jewelry With Excess Lead
The Baltimore City Health Department has issued a violation notice to two businesses prohibiting the sale of two items of children’s jewelry that were identified with a lead level in metal components above 300 parts per million (ppm). The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has been alerted to the most recent findings. [5/17 Lead Press Release (PDF)]
5/18/2011Health Department Encourages Bike Safety During National Bike Month
Bike riding improves health and fitness, can reduce traffic and congestion, and is an inexpensive transportation mode for everyone. However, there are still significant health and safety risks associated with bicycle riding. Each year, more than 500,000 people in the U.S. are treated in emergency departments, and more than 700 people die as a result of bicycle-related injuries. [5/17 Bike Month Press Release (PDF)]
5/10/2011Baltimore City Health Department Releases Healthy Baltimore 2015, a Health Policy Agenda for Improving Health Outcomes
Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake joined Commissioner of Health Dr. Oxiris Barbot today to announce the city's new health policy initiative, Healthy Baltimore 2015. The initiative presents 10 priority areas where coordinated efforts for improving health hold the greatest promise to create a city where all residents realize their full health potential. [5/10 Healthy Baltimore Press Release (PDF)] [Healthy Baltimore 2015 Plan (PDF)] [Healthy Baltimore 2015 Webpage]
April
4/29/2011 Testing Reveals Items of Children’s Jewelry With Excess Lead
The Baltimore City Health Department has issued a violation notice to two businesses prohibiting the sale of three items of children’s jewelry that were identified with a lead level in metal components above 300 parts per million (ppm). [4/28 Press Release (pdf)]
4/20/2011 Baltimore City Teens win B’more for Healthy Babies iHeART Baltimore Creative Arts Competition
The Baltimore City Health Department is pleased to announce that Tranya Tisdale, a 9th grader from Baltimore City College High School, has won the B’more for Healthy Babies iHeART Baltimore Creative Arts Competition. [4/18 Press Release (pdf)]
4/14/2011 The Health Department Announces Dayna M. Brown as Director of Aging and CARE Services
Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Dayna M. Brown as Director of Aging and CARE Services. [4/12 Press Release (pdf)]
4/6/2011Baltimore City Health Department Announces Dr. Anne Bailowitz as Assistant Commissioner for the Bureau of Clinical Services
Baltimore City Health Commissioner Oxiris Barbot, M.D. is pleased to announce the appointment of Anne Bailowitz, M.D., M.P.H. as Assistant Commissioner for the Bureau of Clinical Services. [4/6 Press Release (pdf)]
4/5/2011 Testing Reveals Items of Children’s Jewelry with Excess Lead
The Baltimore City Health Department has issued violation notices to two businesses, prohibiting the sale of a children’s jewelry product that were identified with a lead level in metal components above 300 parts per million (ppm). The Consumer Product Safety Commission has been alerted to the most recent findings. [Press Release (pdf)]
March
3/27/2011Health Alert: Baltimore City monitoring water quality in wake of Japan nuclear incident; no public health risk at this time
Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene announced today that routine air sampling around Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Facility revealed very small amounts of radiation. This is not a surprise finding in light of the release of Iodine 131 from the incident at the Fukushima nuclear plant in Japan. Similar reports were made earlier in the week from samples in California. The level of detection is far below levels of public health concern. [BCHD Health Alert (pdf)] [DHMH Press Release][Information for Clinicians (PDF)]
3/22/2011Mayor Rawlings-Blake Announces City's First Innovation Fund Winners
Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake announced three winning proposals for Baltimore City Government’s first Innovation Fund. Two of the proposals originated from and will benefit the Health Department. [3/22 Press Release (pdf)]
3/21/2011Mayor Rawlings-Blake Kicks Off Youth Violence Prevention Week
Today, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake was joined by community, religious and city leaders to kick off Youth Violence Prevention Week, and urged Baltimore residents to “Stand Up and Speak Out” against violence. Youth Violence Prevention Week—held March 21-27, 2011—is a national public education initiative featuring activities and events to spotlight the issue of youth violence, identify strategies to combat this epidemic, and promote the positive role youth may have in making their communities and schools safer. [3/21 Press Release (pdf)]
Mayor Rawlings-Blake Announces Collaborative to Promote Healthy Living in Baltimore Region
3/11/2011Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake today announced a new collaborative between United Way of Central Maryland (UWCM) and Baltimore City, which will focus on making affordable, fresh, and healthy foods available to underserved communities in Baltimore City and the surrounding counties, and promote an overall healthy lifestyle. Molly Shattuck, former Baltimore Ravens cheerleader and healthy living advocate, will serve as United Way’s “Healthy Food Ambassador.” [3/11 Press Release (pdf)]
HEALTH ALERT: Code Blue Activated For Wednesday, March 2nd, 2011
3/2/2011 Because predicted extreme cold temperatures present a potential danger to health, Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot is declaring a Code Blue cold weather alert for Wednesday evening, March 2, 2011.[3/2 Press Release (pdf)]
February
Health Department’s Innovative Virtual Supermarket Program Opens New Location in Cherry Hill
2/11/2011 Baltimore Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot announces that Baltimarket: the Virtual Supermarket Project (VSP) is open for business today in the newest location, the Cherry Hill neighborhood library. [Press Release (pdf)]
HEALTH ALERT: Code Blue Extended Through Saturday, Feb. 12, 2011
2/11/2011 Because predicted extreme cold temperatures present a potential danger to health, Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot is extending the current Code Blue cold weather alert through Saturday, Feb. 12, 2011.[2/11 Press Release (pdf)]
HEALTH ALERT: Code Blue Extended through Friday, Feb. 11, 2011
2/91/2011 Because predicted extreme cold temperatures present a potential danger to health, Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot is extending the current Code Blue cold weather alert through Friday, Feb. 11, 2011.[2/9 Press Release (pdf)]
2/9/2011The Health Department Announces Rebecca S. Dineen as Assistant Commissioner for Maternal & Child Health
Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot is pleased to announce Rebecca S. Dineen has accepted the position of Assistant Commissioner for the Bureau of Maternal and Child Health. [2/4 Press Release (pdf)]
2/7/2011HEALTH ALERT: Code Blue Activated For Tuesday, Feb. 8, and Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2011
Because extreme cold temperatures present a potential danger to health, Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot is declaring a Code Blue cold weather alert for today through Feb. 9, 2011. [2/7 Code Blue Press Release (pdf)]
2/2/2011HEALTH ALERT: Code Blue Activated For Today through Thursday, Feb. 3, 2011
Because predicted snowfall and extreme cold temperatures present a potential danger to health, Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot is declaring a Code Blue cold weather alert for today through Thursday, Feb. 3, 2011. [2/2 Code Blue Press Release (pdf)]
2/2/2011Mayor Rawlings-Blake Kicks Off American Heart Awareness Month in Baltimore
Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, the Baltimore City Health Department, the American Heart Association (Mid-Atlantic Affiliate) and St. Agnes Hospital joined together at City Hall to raise awareness about women’s heart disease and announce upcoming “American Heart Month” activities. [Mayor's Press Release] [Cardiovascular and Health Disparities Initiative Page]
January
Innovative Virtual Supermarket Program Adds Two New Locations
1/31/2011 Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake joined Council President Bernard “Jack” Young, Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot and others to announce that the Baltimore City Health Department is expanding Baltimarket: the Virtual Supermarket Project (VSP) to two new locations. [Press Release] [Baltimarket Webpage]
HEALTH ALERT: Code Blue Activated For Today Through Friday, Jan. 28, 2011
1/31/2011 Because predicted snowfall and extreme cold temperatures present a potential danger to health, Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot is declaring a Code Blue cold weather alert for today through Friday, Jan. 28, 2011. [1/31 Code Blue Press Release (pdf)]
HEALTH ALERT: Code Blue Activated For Today Through Friday, Jan. 28, 2011
1/26/2011 Because predicted snowfall and extreme cold temperatures present a potential danger to health, Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot is declaring a Code Blue cold weather alert for today through Friday, Jan. 28, 2011. [1/26 Code Blue Press Release (pdf)]
HEALTH ALERT: Code Blue Extended Through Monday, Jan. 24, 2011
1/24/2011 Because changes to predicted overnight low temperatures present a potential danger to health, Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot is extending the current Code Blue cold weather alert through Monday, Jan. 24, 2011. [1/24 Code Blue Press Release (pdf)]
HEALTH ALERT: Code Blue Activated For Today Through Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011
1/20/2011 Because predicted snowfall and extreme cold temperatures present a potential danger to health, Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot is declaring a Code Blue cold weather alert for today through Sunday, Jan. 23, 2011. [1/20 Code Blue Press Release (pdf)]
HEALTH ALERT: Code Blue Extended Through Friday, Jan. 14, 2011
1/12/2011 Because changes to predicted overnight low temperatures present a potential danger to health, Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot is extending the current Code Blue cold weather alert through Friday Jan. 14, 2011. [1/12 Code Blue Press Release (pdf)]
HEALTH ALERT: Code Blue Extended Through Thursday, Jan. 13, 2011
1/11/2011 Because changes to predicted overnight low temperatures present a potential danger to health, Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot is extending the current Code Blue cold weather alert through Thursday Jan. 13, 2011. [1/11 Code Blue Press Release (pdf)]
HEALTH ALERT: Code Blue In Effect For Tuesday, Jan. 11, and Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2011
1/10/2011 Because predicted snowfall and extreme cold temperatures present a potential danger to health, Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot is declaring a Code Blue cold weather alert for tomorrow, Tuesday, Jan. 11, and Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2011. [1/10 Code Blue Press Release (pdf)] [PSA- Know the Signs of Hypothermia and Frostbyte (30 seconds)]
Code Blue Has Been Extended Through Sunday, January 9, 2011
1/7/2011 Because extreme cold temperatures and high winds present a potential danger to health, Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot is extending today’s Code Blue cold weather alert through Sunday, Jan. 9, 2011. [1/7 Code Blue Press Release (pdf)]
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