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🏫 Back to School Safety
As your kids head back to school, it’s important to have a plan for dealing with emergencies. It can be scary to think our children might find themselves in an emergency when we’re not around. The good news is, there are steps we can take to make sure your family is prepared for an emergency at school or at home.
- Get a copy of your child’s school or child care center emergency plan.
- Make sure the school or child care center has up-to-date emergency contact information, including your name, phone number, email and physical addresses.
- Fill out a backpack emergency card that your child can carry with them.
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Visit the CDC's Back to School Reminders & Readiness website here.
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👶🏽 WIC Update!
WIC has returned to in-person appointments, as of August 1, 2023. While we will still offer some remote options, we are excited to see families in our office again! Visit our website winnebagopublichealth.org or give our office a call at 920-232-3000 for more information.
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🤱🏻 Breastfeeding Friendly Facilities
Breastfeeding is a fundamental aspect of maternal and infant health and well-being. It offers numerous benefits for both the mother and the baby. Additionally, breastfeeding creates a special bond between the mother and the baby, fostering emotional connection and promoting a sense of security. Breastfeeding is for anytime, anyplace and businesses can help to create a supportive environment where breastfeeding mothers feel comfortable and empowered by becoming a Breastfeeding Friendly Facility.
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What does a Breastfeeding Friendly designation mean?
This designation means that a business has established a supportive breastfeeding environment that includes a private, comfortable area for breastfeeding mothers to nurse or pump and has adopted policies supporting breastfeeding families.
Why should a business be/become Breastfeeding Friendly?
85% of pregnant mothers plan to breastfeed after delivery but many stop breastfeeding upon returning to work. The longer mothers breastfeed, the greater the impact! Breastfeeding friendly businesses make it easier for moms to continue breastfeeding long after going back to work.
Breastfeeding makes good business sense.
By providing time and space for women to express their milk, companies can benefit by having lower rates of absenteeism, lower health care costs, better retention of employees, higher productivity, and company loyalty.
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“Winnebago County Public Health is dedicated to this work because these critical changes help to normalize and encourage breastfeeding in our community. We have experts on staff to help childcare facilities and businesses support mothers in their breastfeeding journey.”
Allison Laverty Montag
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)
Winnebago County Public Health
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By helping businesses become breastfeeding friendly, we hope to make it easier for mothers to continue breastfeeding while pursuing their personal and professional goals. We believe that supporting breastfeeding is not only beneficial for individual families but also for the overall health and well-being of our community.
Get More Information:
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Safe and Sound Week is a nationwide event that aims to raise awareness and promote the importance of workplace safety. This event is an opportunity for employers and employees to come together and discuss ways to create a safer work environment. Safe and Sound Week is sponsored by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). During this week, employers are encouraged to hold safety events and training sessions, while employees are encouraged to participate and provide feedback. By participating in Safe and Sound Week, companies can demonstrate their commitment to creating a safe and healthy workplace for all employees.
By participating in Safe and Sound Week, we can work towards creating a culture of safety within our community. The ultimate goal is to prevent accidents, injuries, and illnesses. For more information please visit the Safe and Sound website.
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❤️ International Overdose Day
International Overdose Day is an annual event observed on August 31 to raise awareness about overdose, reduce the stigma associated with drug-related deaths, and remember those who have lost their lives to overdose.
Substance overdose is a serious issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, or social status. It is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach. Raising awareness about the signs and symptoms of overdose and promoting access to life-saving resources is key to preventing overdoses.
The Winnebago County Public Health Department's Harm Reduction services offer a variety of resources to help prevent substance use, reduce harm, increase access to treatment, and prevent overdose including:
- CTR (counseling, testing, and referrals)
- Substance use treatment referrals
- Narcan
- Fentanyl and Xylazine Test Strips
- A safe, non-judgmental, client-centered environment
Narcan and Test Strips are available for free at the Winnebago County Public Health Department's Oshkosh location (112 Otter Ave, second floor), 8 am to 4 pm, Monday-Friday.
More Information:
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🩹 National Immunization Month
August is National Immunization Month and a time to raise awareness about the importance of vaccines for people of all ages. Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to prevent and control infectious diseases. By getting vaccinated, you not only protect yourself, but also your family, friends, and community.
During National Immunization Month, it's important to make sure that you and your loved ones are up-to-date on all recommended vaccines. This includes vaccines for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. And with school right around the corner, it is important to make sure your children are all caught up on their immunizations. Your healthcare provider can help you determine which vaccines are right for you based on your age, health status, and other factors.
Winnebago County Public Health offers free vaccines to children who qualify.
For more information please contact the public health department at 920-232-3000 or visit winnebagopublichealth.org.
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🍎 Back to School: Nutritious Eating
As the new school year approaches, it's important to establish healthy routines for your children. One way to do this is by ensuring they eat a nutritious breakfast to fuel their day. Additionally, packing a healthy lunch can help them stay focused and energized throughout the day. Here are some tips to follow:
- Pre-pack lunches the night before to save time in the morning.
- Include a variety of food groups in each lunch, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Make breakfast convenient by prepping overnight oats or smoothies the night before.
- Encourage your child to choose a breakfast option they enjoy, such as whole grain cereal with milk or a breakfast sandwich.
- Set a good example by eating breakfast and packing a healthy lunch for yourself as well.
By prioritizing healthy meals and snacks, you can set your child up for success this school year.
Additional Resources:
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💪🏼 New Fall Classes!
Our Wellness Plus classes are researched and tested to help those over 55 self-manage their health. They focus is on falls prevention and living with chronic conditions. They also provide social connections and enhance the quality of life. Our mission with Wellness Plus Classes is to bring healthcare professionals, advocates, and the community together to ensure that evidence-based, self-management programs for health and well-being are available, accessible, and routinely referred to. Interested in hosting a class at your location or becoming a class leader? Contact us by calling 920-232-3000 or emailing health@winnebagocountywi.gov.
For more information on our Wellness Plus classes please call 920-232-3000 or visit winnebagopublichealth.org.
AND we have three classes kicking off our Fall schedule:
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Tai Chi for Arthritis and Falls Prevention is a low-impact exercise involving gentle movements, poses, and coordinated breathing. It's proven to reduce the risk of falling by improving balance, stability, and strength. This is a beginner class and poses can be adapted for people using walkers, canes, or wheelchairs.
When: Thursdays, Sept. 7 to Nov. 9 from 1 - 2 pm
Where: Menasha Senior Center (116 Main St, Menasha)
Register: Call the Menasha Senior Center at 920-967-3530.
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Stepping On! is a falls prevention class proven to reduce falls by 30%. The class is geared toward older adults who have fallen, worry about falling, or are at risk of falling. Participants will learn strength and balance exercises and learn about nutrition, footwear, medication, vision, and safety.
When: Tuesdays, Sept. 19 to Oct. 31, 10:30 am - 12:30 pm
Where: Oshkosh Seniors Center (200 N Campbell Rd, Oshkosh)
Register: Call Winnebago County Public Health at 920-232-3000.
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Strong Bodies is a research-proven strength training class for men and women 55 and older. The class meets twice a week for 12 weeks. Strength training improves bone density, arthritis symptoms, flexibility, mood, confidence levels, and reduces falls.
When: Mondays & Thursdays, Aug. 14 to Nov. 2,
10:30 am - 12:30 pm
Where: Winneconne Highlands Senior Center (424 Cleveland St, Winneconne)
Register: Call Winnebago County Public Health at 920-232-3000.
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👨👩👧👧 Parent Resource Hours
Stop by anytime during Parent Resource Hours for information on developmental screenings, safe sleep, breastfeeding support, nursing expertise, health, and community resources. Appointments are necessary for car seat checks and immunizations.
Join us!
Tuesday, August 8
1 - 4 p.m.
Oshkosh Office, 112 Otter Ave
Thursday, August 24
11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Neenah Office, 211 N Commercial St
Click on the flyer to download and share.
Contact us to request additional languages.
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Please note there will not be any Parent Resource Hours on Tuesday, September 12. | |
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🚶🏾♀️ Breastfeeding Awareness Walk
Celebrate World Breastfeeding Week and Breastfeeding Month, raise awareness, and network with others who are passionate about breastfeeding. Join the Breastfeeding Alliance of Northeast Wisconsin
When: Saturday, August 5, 2023; check in at 9 am; walk begins at 9:30 am
Where: First United Methodist Church (325 E Franklin St, Appleton)
Free parking will be available in the First United Methodist Church parking lot. The event is FREE! All are welcome! FREE snacks, giveaways, and awesome raffle prizes! For more information about the walk please contact the Breastfeeding Alliance of Northeast Wisconsin.
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🤸🏻♀️ Fitness in the Park
Join BAGO for a free fitness event in August. Family friendly boot camp, kickboxing, and yoga will be available and each class is only 20 minutes long. At the end of each 20-minute class, participants will get one raffle ticket. If you attend all three classes, you get three tickets. Drop your tickets in the bucket at the registration booth at the end for prizes!
When: Sunday, August 13 at 6 pm
Where: Winnebago County Community Park, Shelter 3
Click here for more information on BAGO and upcoming events!
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We are excited to share Fox Valley Technical College's Starting Point Program is now in Oshkosh! Starting Point is a FREE program Fox Valley Technical College offers for women who are looking for direction in the areas of education, employment, self-esteem, and forming a healthy support system. Classes are FREE, one day a week for 3 hours.
Who is eligible:
- Any women age 18 and older, with or without children
- Resident of Outagamie, Calumet, Outagamie, Shawano, Waupaca, or Winnebago County
- Be determined to move forward with her education in the future
Classes offered:
- Appleton: In-Person at BABES, Inc., Wednesdays from 11:00 AM-2:00PM 9/6 to 11/29 (free childcare offered)
- Oshkosh: In-Person at the Downtown YMCA, Saturdays from 9:00 AM-12:00 PM 9/9-11/29 (free childcare offered)
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Virtual Option: Wednesdays from 5:00 PM-7:30 PM 9/6-11/29 (if technology is a barrier FVTC can help; no childcare offered)
For more information:
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🩹 COVID-19 Vaccine & Testing
Get tested if you have symptoms or were exposed. Stay home if you are sick. Test before you go to a group gathering. Stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations. For county and state data please visit our website. Find vaccine locations here or call 920-232-3000.
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Public Health Information
Communicable Disease, Environmental Concerns, Community Resources,
WIC, and more!
Contact 920-232-3000 or visit our website.
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Non-Medical Related Information
Utility, Food & Housing Assistance, Elder Care, Crisis Intervention, Alcohol & Drug Recovery
Contact 211 or visit their website.
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Mission: Winnebago County Health Department (WCHD) protects and promotes health through services, partnerships, and equitable practices and policies so all can live their best life. | |
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STAY UP TO DATE!
Visit wchd.pub/newsletter to receive Public Health Happenings, press releases, or public service announcements from the Winnebago County Public Health Department.
Find a copy of this newsletter on our website.
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Please distribute widely. The format may be altered when forwarded in an email. Find a shareable link here. | | | | |
