According to the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals (DHH), as of June 10, there have been 71 reported cases of illness in Louisiana related to the Gulf Coast oil spill, 21 of which are individuals who have not been directly involved with clean up efforts. The symptoms most commonly reported are throat irritation, cough, headache, chest pain, and shortness of breath. Complaints generally appear to be related to odors emanating from the spill. DHH recommends that people who are sensitive to the oil smell remain inside with windows and doors closed and air-conditioning on. People experiencing symptoms who also have a pre-existing condition, such as asthma or another respiratory illness, should contact their physicians for further guidence. The department says drinking water is currently safe. DHH has set up a website with up to date health information relating to the oil spill, as has the national Center for Disease Control. Read the full article by clicking this link.

Just in time for National Influenza Week (January 10-16), the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals has expanded H1N1 vaccine availability to the general public. Until recently, the vaccine has been available only to high risk populations. Now, anyone interested in receiving the H1N1 vaccine may contact his or her healthcare provider, or any provider listed on the H1N1 flu shot locator at www.fighttheflula.com.

Many school districts throughout the state have partnered with the Louisiana Department of Education and the Department of Health and Hospitals to take part in the state’s H1N1 flu vaccination campaign. In the coming weeks, students will be offered shot and nasal spray forms of H1N1 flu vaccines at no cost through school-based and/or community based vaccination events. Participating schools and school districts are responsible for scheduling their school-based H1N1 vaccination events. Updates naming schools that will participate in the vaccination campaign will be released later this week. Get more details.