Black flies, also known as buffalo gnats (some species are also referred to as “punkies” or “no- see-um’s”), are small, biting flies that irritate people and animals near running rivers and streams. They are sensitive to weather conditions and are most active on cloudy, humid days with low wind. Take these simple steps to avoid their bites: Stay away from areas where black flies are active during the day, especially at dusk and dawn. Wear light-colored, long pants and long sleeves, especially whites and tans. Also wear a light-colored hat. Consider using insect repellent.
Campaign offers illustrations, tips for confronting disease-carrying insects in Spokane.
Spokane County lacks almost 8,000 adequate child care slots for 0- to 5-year olds.
Questions and answers in the face of multi-state measles outbreak.
With the last case confirmed on March 18, the Clark County measles outbreak that started at the end of December may finally be nearing an end – 74 cases in Washington have been reported (73 in Clark County, one in King County) and four in the Portland, OR area as of April 16. Public health will declare the outbreak over after two incubation periods (42 days) without new cases.
In each issue of the Epigram, authors introduce readers to a member of the health district's Disease Prevention and Response team. In this issue, Kari Lidbeck, Immunization Community Network Specialist, is featured. Lidbeck works in the Immunization Assessment and Promotion program, where she focuses on increasing immunization rates in birth to kindergarten-age children and community immunization services.
