The Coastal Health District of Georgia serves the counties of Bryan, Camden, Chatham, Effingham, Glynn, Liberty, Long & McIntosh

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COVID-19 Testing Site to Close in Camden County

March 16th, 2022 by CHD Communications

Posted in Camden News, COVID-19, News |

A significant decrease in demand for COVID testing has prompted public health officials to close the COVID-19 testing site at the Camden County Health Department in St. Marys. The last day for testing at this site is Thursday, March 17, 2022.

“We’ve done more than 5,000 COVID tests in Camden County over the last two years, and we’re proud to have served our community in this way,” said Dr. Lawton Davis, Health Director of the Coastal Health District. “There was a time when testing options were limited and demand was high. But the landscape has changed – demand has fallen sharply, and there are many other options for COVID testing in the area. It’s time for us to scale back, with the knowledge that if the situation changes in the future we can expand again if necessary.”

Several local healthcare providers in the area offer COVID testing, and at-home self-test kits can be ordered for free from the federal government at covidtests.gov. COVID testing by public health is also available six days a week in Glynn County on Kemble Avenue, across from the Emergency Care Center of Southeast Georgia Health System.

Click here for more information about COVID-19 testing options through public health in the Coastal Health District.

Beach Water Advisory Lifted in Glynn County

March 8th, 2022 by District_PIO

Posted in Glynn News, News |

Updated March 10, 2022:

The Glynn County Health Department has lifted the beach water advisory for South Beach at the Lighthouse on St. Simons Island, which is from 9th Street to the pier.

The advisory was issued on March 8, 2022, after routine water quality tests showed a high level of enterococci bacteria which increase the risk of gastrointestinal illness in swimmers.

Subsequent water samples taken showed that the bacteria levels had dropped below Environmental Protection Agency’s recommended limits. Therefore, the advisory has been lifted.

March 8, 2022:

The Glynn County Health Department has issued a beach water advisory for South Beach at the Lighthouse on St. Simons Island, which is from 9th Street to the pier.

The Department of Natural Resources – Coastal Resources Division tests water samples at Glynn County beaches throughout the year. The test screens for enterococcus (pronounced: en·ter·o·coc·cus) bacteria, which are found in humans and some wildlife.

When a beach is under advisory, it means the level of bacteria found in the water is above the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) recommended standards. Periodic advisories are not unusual, and sources of the bacteria could include animal waste, storm water runoff, or boating waste.

The advisory does NOT mean the beach is closed. Beach water advisories alert the public of a possible risk of illness associated with water contact in the advisory areas. The Health Department recommends you do not swim or wade in the water in the areas under advisory. Fish and other seafood caught from these areas should be thoroughly washed with fresh water and thoroughly cooked before eating, as should fish or seafood caught from any waters.

The areas will be re-tested this week, and the advisories will be lifted when the bacteria levels meet the EPA’s recommended standards. For more information, visit our beach water testing page.

Coastal Health District to Host Walk to Bring Awareness to HIV

March 4th, 2022 by District_PIO

Posted in Bryan News, Camden News, Chatham News, Effingham News, Glynn News, Liberty News, Long News, McIntosh News, News |

The Coastal Health District will host “Walk to Stop the Spread” at Forsyth Park on Saturday, April 16. The health fair and park walk are being held to raise awareness around HIV. The event is free and open to the public and participants who register will receive a free swag bag and t-shirt. There is no cost to register.

Outside vendors, food trucks, and other activities – including free HIV testing, diabetes screening, blood pressure checks, and COVID-19 testing and vaccinations – will also be available. Check-in starts at 8 a.m. and the walk will begin at 9 a.m. The festivities will continue until noon.

To register, go to coastalhealthdistrict.org/hiv or to eventbrite.com. You can also register in person at the Chatham County Health Department located at 1602 Drayton Street during regular operational hours.

The Coastal Health District’s HIV Program provides medical treatment and case management for those living with HIV/AIDS. all health departments offer free, confidential HIV testing. At-home HIV self-test kits are also available at no cost.

HIV testing is always free by appointment at all health departments in Bryan, Camden, Chatham, Effingham, Glynn, Liberty, Long, and McIntosh counties and available Monday through Friday during regular health department hours of operation.

For more information on Coastal Health District HIV services, please visit our website at coastalhealthdistrict.org/hiv.  

Powdered Infant Formula Recall Expanded; Five Reports of Bacterial Infection in Infants

March 4th, 2022 by CHD Communications

Posted in Bryan News, Camden News, Chatham News, Effingham News, Glynn News, Liberty News, Long News, McIntosh News, News |

[JPG, 118.49 KB]

The following press release was issued from the Georgia Department of Public Health:

A recall of powdered infant formula is expanding to include a specialty formula for infants with certain dietary needs. Abbott Nutrition is now recalling one lot of Similac PM 60/40 in addition to select lots of Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare formulas manufactured in its Sturgis, Michigan, facility. The products are sold throughout the U.S. The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) is urging parents and caregivers of infants to check their powdered infant formula before using it.

The recall for Similac PM 60/40 includes lot numbers 27032K80 on cans and 27032K800 on cases.

The previously recalled powdered infant formulas – Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare – can be identified by the 7-to-9-digit code and expiration date on the bottom of the package. Do not use these brands if they meet all 3 of the following conditions:

  • the first two digits of the code are 22 through 37 and
  • the code on the container contains K8, SH, or Z2, and
  • the expiration date is 4-1-2022 (APR 2022) or later.

Parents can also check Similac’s recall website or call 800-986-8540 and follow the instructions provided to find out if a formula they use is included in the recall. If a child’s regular formula is not available, parents should consult with their child’s healthcare provider for recommendations on changing feeding practices.

Georgia WIC participants may return, or exchange recalled formula to the place of purchase or contact their WIC clinic to exchange for replacement vouchers.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are investigating after five babies in three states (Minnesota, Ohio, Texas) became sick with bacterial infections after consuming the products. Four of the complaints concerned Cronobacter sakazakii infections and one complaint was Salmonella infection. All five illnesses resulted in hospitalization and Cronobacter may have contributed to death in two infants.

Additional recall information is available on the FDA website or the CDC’s website https://www.cdc.gov/cronobacter/outbreaks/infant-formula.html.

Beach Water Advisories Lifted in Glynn County

March 3rd, 2022 by CHD Communications

Posted in Glynn News, News |

Updated on March 3, 2022

The Glynn County Health Department has lifted the bacteria-related beach water advisories on St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island. Advisories have been lifted for:

  • East Beach at Old Coast Guard Station – from Tenth St. to Driftwood Dr. on St. Simons Island,
  • Massengale Park Beach – from Driftwood Dr. to Cedar St. on St. Simons Island,
  • Fifth Street Crossover Beach – from Cedar St. to Ninth St. on St. Simons Island, and
  • South Dunes Picnic Area Beach – from Corsair Beach Park to South Water Tower on Jekyll Island.

The advisories were issued on March 1, 2022 after routine water quality tests showed a high level of enterococci bacteria which increase the risk of gastrointestinal illness in swimmers.

Subsequent water samples showed that the bacteria levels had dropped below Environmental Protection Agency’s recommended limits. Therefore, the advisories have been lifted.

March 1, 2022:

The Glynn County Health Department has issued beach water advisories for the following beach locations:

  • East Beach at Old Coast Guard Station – from Tenth St. to Driftwood Dr. on St. Simons Island,
  • Massengale Park Beach – from Driftwood Dr. to Cedar St. on St. Simons Island,
  • Fifth Street Crossover Beach – from Cedar St. to Ninth St. on St. Simons Island, and
  • South Dunes Picnic Area Beach – from Corsair Beach Park to South Water Tower on Jekyll Island.
graphic showing the beach water advisory signs [JPG, 2.57 MB]

The Department of Natural Resources – Coastal Resources Division tests water samples at Glynn County beaches throughout the year. The test screens for enterococcus (pronounced: en·ter·o·coc·cus) bacteria, which are found in humans and some wildlife.

When a beach is under advisory, it means the level of bacteria found in the water is above the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) recommended standards. Periodic advisories are not unusual, and sources of the bacteria could include animal waste, storm water runoff, or boating waste.

The advisory does NOT mean the beach is closed. Beach water advisories alert the public of a possible risk of illness associated with water contact in the advisory areas. The Health Department recommends you do not swim or wade in the water in the areas under advisory. Fish and other seafood caught from these areas should be thoroughly washed with fresh water and thoroughly cooked before eating, as should fish or seafood caught from any waters.

The areas will be re-tested this week, and the advisories will be lifted when the bacteria levels meet the EPA’s recommended standards. For more information, visit our beach water testing page.

$50 Gift Cards Offered for Liberty Co. Residents Getting First or Second Doses of COVID Vaccine on March 9th

March 1st, 2022 by District_PIO

Posted in Liberty News, Long News, News |

The Liberty County Health Department will offer $50 Visa gift cards to the first 100 residents who get their first or second dose* of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine on Wednesday, March 9th between 8:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the health department. The Moderna vaccine is approved for people 18 and older. *(Does not include booster dose).

Appointments are required and can be scheduled by choosing a time on Wednesday, March 9th, at this web address: https://coastalhealthdistrict.as.me/Liberty-Moderna

Appointments can also be scheduled by calling 912-230-5506 Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Though transmission levels are currently lower than they have been, the virus is still circulating in our communities. Getting vaccinated offers the best protection from getting severely ill or hospitalized because of COVID-19.

“If this virus has shown us anything it’s that it is constantly changing,” said Dr. Lawton Davis, Health Director for the Coastal Health District. “That means we can’t let our guard down. I encourage Liberty County residents to take advantage of this opportunity and get vaccinated.”

Chatham County Health Department Facilities Closed March 4

March 1st, 2022 by CHD Communications

Posted in Chatham News, News |

The two main facilities of the Chatham County Health Department will be closed to the public on Friday, March 4, 2022, as the telephone system is upgraded. Temporary telephone and internet outages are expected during this time. Clients with impacted appointments will be contacted to reschedule.

The following facilities and services will be unavailable March 4:

  • Main Clinic, 1395 Eisenhower Drive – clinical services, dental services, vital records, environmental health offices
  • Midtown Clinic, 1602 Drayton Street – clinical services

The following facilities and services will be available March 4:

  • COVID-19 Vaccination Annex, 1249 Eisenhower Drive – adult and pediatric COVID vaccinations
  • COVID-19 Testing, 301 W. Oglethorpe Ave., Savannah Civic Center
  • COVID-19 Testing, 210 Technology Circle, Georgia Tech Savannah Campus in Pooler
  • Chatham CARE Center, 107 B Fahm Street – HIV Services

All facilities will resume normal operational schedules on Monday, March 7, 2022.

Chatham County Health Department Offers Free Mammograms on March 22

February 24th, 2022 by District_PIO

Posted in Chatham News, News |

The Chatham County Health Department will offer free mammograms from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, March 22, for women who meet eligibility guidelines. The event will take place at the health department located at 1395 Eisenhower Drive.

Women who meet annual income guidelines and are 40-64 years of age without insurance will be eligible to receive a screening mammogram at no cost as part of the Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (BCCP). BCCP provides access to breast and cervical cancer screening for women who may not otherwise have the means to access such services. The BCCP program partners with the St. Joseph’s/Candler mobile mammography program to offer free mammograms several times a year.

Breast cancer in the most common cancer in woman after skin cancer. It is estimated that about one in eight women in the United States will develop breast cancer over the course of her lifetime. Mammograms are the best way to detect breast cancer early. The earlier breast cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat.

Appointments are required and can be made by calling 356-2946.

For more information on the Breast and Cervical Cancer Program, go to coastalhealthdistrict.org/bccp.

Adolescent Health & Youth Development Program Partners with LoveSmart to Host Community Youth Day in Glynn Co. on March 5th

February 18th, 2022 by District_PIO

Posted in Glynn News, News |

The Coastal Health District Adolescent Health and Youth Development Program, in collaboration with LoveSmart, Inc., will hold a Community Youth Day event from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 5, at Howard Coffin Park in Brunswick. The event is free and open to boys and girls ages 13-18.

The Community Youth Day will feature workshops on healthy relationships, dating violence, puberty and hygiene, sexually transmitted infection awareness, and anatomy.

“We are excited to partner with LoveSmart to bring this teen summit to Brunswick,” said Coastal Health District Adolescent Health and Youth Development Coordinator, Antwonette Bulloch. “The topics we plan to cover will help empower our teens to make healthy choices and reduce risky behaviors.”

Participants will be treated to free breakfast and lunch. The day will also include outside vendors, music, door prizes, games, gift cards, and a snack station. Those interested in attending are asked to register at eventbrite.com.

$50 Gift Cards Offered for Long Co. Residents Getting COVID Vaccine on Feb. 22

February 8th, 2022 by District_PIO

Posted in Liberty News, Long News, News |

The Coastal Health District and *Long County Health Department will give $50 Visa gift cards to the first 50 people who get vaccinated against COVID-19 on Tuesday, February 22, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the health department.
*(PLEASE NOTE: THE GIFT CARD INCENTIVE IS ONLY HAPPENING AT THE LONG COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT).

The Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) and Moderna vaccines will be available and are approved for people 18 and older. Appointments are required and can be scheduled at chdcovidvax.org. Once on the website:

  • Scroll down to Long County.
  • Click the Long County Health Department scheduling link.
  • Choose a vaccine.
  • Schedule an appointment for February 22.

Appointments can also be scheduled by calling 912-230-5506 Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The highly contagious COVID-19 Omicron variant continues to circulate throughout our communities. Getting vaccinated helps greatly lessen the risk of severe illness and hospitalization from COVID-19.

Long County Board of Health member, RoseZena Baggs, knows firsthand just how devastating COVID-19 can be. Before the vaccine became available, Mrs. Baggs contracted the virus and spent four weeks in the hospital.

“I was so sick – I really thought it was the end for me. I was preparing my family for the worst and getting it right with my soul.” she said.  “I got vaccinated without any hesitation because I understood I could contract the virus again.”

Mrs. Baggs is still suffering from lingering, ongoing health problems commonly referred to as “long COVID.” She relies on oxygen and inhalers to help with breathing and has other serious post-COVID associated health conditions, including congestive heart failure.

“I got vaccinated and boosted and I’m convinced that had I been able to do that before getting COVID, my case would have been much, much milder. If you get the vaccine and the booster and just do everything you need to do, you’ll be doing yourself, your family, and your community a big favor,” she said.

Mrs. Baggs has lost family members and friends to COVID-19 and says she just doesn’t understand why so many people are hesitant to get vaccinated.

“At this point, everybody knows somebody who’s passed away from COVID or gotten really sick from it,” she said. “Please just get the vaccine.”

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