ADPH

Alabama health officials report that quitting smoking is one of the most important steps smokers can take to improve their health. The Alabama Department of Public Health is encouraging participation in the annual Great American Smokeout for smokers and tobacco users to make November 21 their quit day.

New findings show Alabama’s infant mortality rate has climbed from recent years due to poverty, educational levels and medical access. The Alabama Department of Public Health continues to offer programs that focus on the reduction of the rate.

The deadline to send Alabama officials your best selfie is coming up. Kids in the state are being asked to show off their best grins through the “Share Your Smile with Alabama” photo contest. The campaign is put on by the Alabama Department of Public Health with entries accepted through Friday, Nov. 8.

The Alabama Department of Public Health continues its investigation of possible rabies exposure to humans from a stray kitten. A litter of kittens had been abandoned on the campus of Tuskegee University.

The devastation of Hurricanes Helene and Milton is still being tallied as a swath of Florida comes to terms with damage from the unusual dual strike of storms in just two weeks. Alabama Department of Transportation workers have deployed to Florida to aid with cleanup and recovery efforts in the aftermath of Hurricanes Milton and Helene. Additionally, Alabama is sending a public health support team to North Carolina to assist in their Helene recovery.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed in Alabama and across the country, is an international health campaign that’s held every October. State healthcare experts stress that early detection saves lives. The Alabama Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program is helping by providing free cancer screening and diagnostic services.

The United States Department of Agriculture is distributing the oral rabies vaccine in parts of Alabama through Oct. 20. The action is a continuation of a decades-long program to reduce raccoon rabies and the associated public health risks from rabies exposures.

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, Alabamians are asked to heed all health and safety warnings after any significant flooding and damage caused by the storm system. State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris is warning of potential hazards as well as protective actions needed after power outages and in cleanup activities

The Alabama Department of Public Health is asking the public to help combat infant mortality by joining the #ClearTheCrib #SafeSleepAL challenge. October is SIDS Awareness Month, and the department continues to promote the ABCs of safe sleep: Alone, on their Back, in a Crib.

Avian influenza, or bird flu, refers to the disease caused by infection with Type A viruses. The Alabama Department of Public Health reports these viruses occur naturally among wild aquatic birds worldwide and can infect domestic poultry and other bird and animal species, including in the Yellowhammer State.