First 5 LA Moves Forward with In-Home Visit Models
Recognizing that early intervention is critical to the wellness of babies and young children, the First 5 LA Board of Commissioners moves to providing in-home visit programs to the Best Start communities. More »
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National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month
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President Proclaims September National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month
The White House recognizes the importance of healthy eating and exercise in combating the growing epidemic of childhood obesity in the U.S. More »
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Continued Support Urged for American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Investment Supporting Families with Young Children
ARRA funds boosts programs serving children and families, yet highlights historic underfunding of child care and early education programs in L.A. County. More »
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First 5 LA's 2010-2015 Public Policy Agenda
First 5 LA distributes its 2010-2015 Public Policy Agenda and summary at Policy Roundtable. More »
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State Budget Update: Budget Standoff Breaks Records
Some California child care providers feeling the effects of California's budget approval delay. More »
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Evie's Desk: Start the School Year Healthy -- and Keep it Healthy
You can't avoid it: Every year with fall comes the excitement and chaos of the new school year ... and illnesses that inevitably follow the combination of changing weather and children. First 5 LA Commissioner Jonathan Fielding, the director of Los Angeles County's Department of Public Health, has some tips for starting - and keeping - children healthy and safe this year.
The first line of defense against illness is vaccinations, Dr. Fielding says. There is a current statewide fatal epidemic of pertussis, also known as "whooping cough." In addition, health officials and the American Academy of Pediatrics warn that this year, like last, we should expect to see deadly strains of the influenza virus, including a repeat of last year's H1N1 strain. Both of these diseases can be prevented with vaccinations.
- For whooping cough, The California Department of Public Health recommends the usual series of childhood pertussis vaccinations, but also an adolescent-adult pertussis booster vaccine (Tdap) for anyone 7 years or older who is not fully immunized, women of childbearing age and anyone who cares for infants - particularly those under 3 months.
- Dr. Fielding said that this year's flu vaccine will include protection against H1N1 and other strains. He encourages people to contact their regular doctor or, for those who do not have a regular healthcare provider or insurance coverage, to call the Los Angeles County Information line at 211 or visit the Public Health Department's website for referrals to free or low-cost immunizations.
Everyone should practice healthy habits to help prevent spreading illness, Dr. Fielding said. A few simple ones include:
- Wash your hands with soap and warm water, especially after using the restroom and before eating.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Cover coughs and sneezes, preferably with a tissue.
- If you're sick, stay home from work. If your child is ill, don't send him or her to school.
In addition to these recommendations, parents and caregivers should provide healthy snacks for children and help them stay active. "If you teach children healthy habits now, they will stick with those habits long-term," Dr. Fielding says. "Give your kids the head start they need to live long, healthy and productive lives."
For ideas on healthy snacks and fun, safe activities for children, click on Ready. Set. Grow!, where you'll find directions to farmers markets in your area, nutritional food tips and other resources.
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