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June 20, 2018
Healthcare-Associated Infections Advisory Committee meets June 27
What: The quarterly public meeting of the Healthcare-Associated Infections Advisory Committee (HAIAC)
When: June 27, 1-3 p.m. A 10-minute public comment period is scheduled at 2:50 p.m.; comments are limited to five minutes.
Where: Portland State Office Building, Room 1B, 800 NE Oregon St., Portland. Conference call line: 877-873-8018, access code 7872333.
Agenda: Outbreaks update; infection control infection and response (ICAR) tools; nursing home prevalence study; injection practice and needle use project update; TAP assessment progress; discussion; public comment.
Background: OHA provides oversight and support for the mandatory reporting of health care-associated infections in Oregon via the HAI program. The board meets on a quarterly basis to make recommendations to OHA regarding infection measures reportable by health care facilities. More information is available on the program's webpage at http://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DiseasesConditions/CommunicableDisease/HAI/Prevention/Pages/Meetings.aspx.
# # #
Everyone has a right to know about and use the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:
- Sign language and spoken language interpreters
- Written material in other languages
- Braille
- Large print
- Audio and other formats
If you need help or have questions, please contact Roza Tammer at 971-673-1074, 711 TTY, or oza.p.tammer@dhsoha.state.or.us">roza.p.tammer@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.
June 13, 2018
What: A public meeting of the Out of Hospital Births Prior Authorization Review Workgroup.
When: Wednesday, June 20, 10 a.m. to noon. A public comment period will be held at approximately 11:30 a.m.
Where: Portland State Office Building, Conference Room 1D, 800 NE Oregon St., Portland.
The public also may attend by conference call at 888-278-0296, participant code 843163.*
Agenda: Welcome, introductions and process overview; background and workgroup scope and goal; current process for out-of-hospital births prior authorization; challenges with and reflections on PA process; public comment; summary and next steps.
Background: The Out of Hospital Births Workgroup met in 2016-2017 to discuss the Oregon Health Plan's coverage of childbirth in settings other than hospitals. The workgroup presented recommendations to the Oregon Health Authority in summer 2017. OHA is convening this small group to undertake the workgroup's third recommendation, "Prior Authorization Process Review," with the goal of optimizing safety while improving the efficiency of the process. Questions and public comments may be submitted to OOHB.Workgroup@dhsoha.state.or.us.
# # #
Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:
- Sign language and spoken language interpreters
- Written materials in other languages
- Braille
- Large print
- Audio and other formats
If you need help or have questions, please contact Heather Johnson at 503-508-8276, 711 TTY or heather.n.johnson@dhsoha.state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.
* This news release was updated June 20, 2018, at 10:44 a.m., to correct the telephone number.
18 de junio, 2018: Este comunicado de prensa se actualizó para reflejar un cambio en la ubicación de la reunión de Bend
14 de junio, 2018
El director de Oregon Health Authority (OHA), Patrick Allen, emprenderá una gira este verano para conversar con residentes de Oregon sobre el futuro del Plan de Salud de Oregon. Allen viajará por 10 comunidades (Astoria, Bend, Coos Bay, Corvallis, Hermiston, Hood River, Klamath Falls, Ontario, Portland y Springfield) para hablar sobre lo que se ha logrado con la transformación del sistema de salud en Oregon y lo que se busca mejorar. Además, Allen quiere escuchar opiniones sobre las opciones propuestas para mejorar el sistema de salud coordinada del estado.
La conclusión de los primeros contratos de cinco años con las Organizaciones de Atención de Salud Coordinada (CCOs por sus siglas en inglés) señalan una oportunidad para que el Consejo de Política de Salud de Oregon trabaje con todas las partes interesadas para mejorar los servicios que un millón de personas reciben por medio del Plan de Salud de Oregon. CCOs son organizaciones gobernadas por la comunidad que ayudan a reunir proveedores de salud física, mental, y dental para coordinar la atención médica de beneficiarios del Plan de Salud de Oregon (Medicaid).
Desde el 2012, el modelo de salud coordinada de Oregon ha ahorrado a los contribuyentes alrededor de $2.2 mil millones, mientras reduce las visitas innecesarias a las salas de emergencias y mejora el cuidado de salud preventivo para niños y adultos.
El 5 de junio, OHA presentó propuestas y estrategias al Consejo de Política de Salud de Oregon para mejorar la atención de salud que proveerá el Plan de Salud de Oregon en los próximos cinco años. Las propuestas se formaron tras consultar al público por medio de sondeos, foros comunitarios, reuniones en persona y por internet, al igual que correos electrónicos.
Las propuestas se enfocan en mejorar cuatro áreas de prioridad identificadas por la Gobernadora Kate Brown.
- Mantener un crecimiento sostenible de los gastos.
- Incrementar remuneración basada en acciones—paga según el rendimiento.
- Enfocarse en los determinantes sociales de la salud y equidad.
- Mejorar el sistema de salud mental.
OHA continuara recabando aportaciones del público sobre las propuestas a lo largo del verano, y el Consejo de Política de Salud adoptara las recomendaciones en el otoño. Contratos para la atención de salud coordinada para 2020-2025 se espera sean otorgados en el verano de 2019.
Programa de reuniones comunitarias de junio 2018
Lunes, 18 de junio
Hood River, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Hood River Inn
1108 E Marina Drive
Martes, 19 de junio
Hermiston, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Eastern Oregon Trade and Event Center
1750 E Airport Road
Ontario, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Treasure Valley Community College, Weese Building, Room 110
650 College Blvd
Miércoles, 20 de junio
Bend, 12-2 p.m.
Central Oregon Community College, Wille Hall *
2600 NW College Way
Jueves, 21 de junio
Portland, 6-8 p.m.
Madison High School
2735 NE 82nd Ave
Martes, 26 de junio
Corvallis, 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Oregon State University LaSells Stewart Center
875 SW 26th Street
Springfield, 6-8 p.m.
Holiday Inn
919 Kruse Way
Miércoles, 27 de junio
Astoria, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Astoria Armory
1636 Exchange Street
Coos Bay, 7-9 p.m.
Red Lion Inn
1313 N Bayshore Drive
Jueves, 28 de junio
Klamath Falls, 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Henley Elementary School
8227 Highway 39
Traductores en español estarán presentes en todas las reuniones.
# # #
Todos tienen el derecho de tener conocimiento y utilizar los programas y servicios de la Autoridad de Salud de Oregon (OHA, por sus siglas en inglés). OHA provee ayuda gratuita como, por ejemplo:
- Traductores en diferentes lenguajes hablados y lenguaje de signos americano
- Documentos escritos en otros lenguajes
- Braille
- Letra grande
- Audio y otros formatos
Para asistencia o respuestas a preguntas, por favor llame a Lisa Bui al 971-673-3397, 711 TTY o Lisa.T.Bui@state.or.us al menos 48 horas antes del evento.
* Este comunicado de prensa se actualizó el 18 de junio de 2018 a las 3 p.m., para reflejar un cambio en la ubicación de la reunión de Bend.
Updated June 18 to reflect new location of Bend meeting
June 7, 2018
Contact: Allyson Hagen, 503-449-6457, allyson.hagen@state.or.us
OHA announces community meetings across state to shape the future of the Oregon Health Plan
Oregon Health Authority Director Patrick Allen is hitting the road this summer to engage Oregonians in a conversation about the future of the Oregon Health Plan. Allen is scheduled to travel to 10 communities (Astoria, Bend, Coos Bay, Corvallis, Hermiston, Hood River, Klamath Falls, Ontario, Portland and Springfield) to discuss how far Oregon’s health transformation has come and where it's going, and to get feedback on proposed policy options to improve the state’s coordinated care system.
The end of the first five-year contracts with coordinated care organizations (CCOs) marks an opportunity for the Oregon Health Policy Board to work with stakeholders to improve the services that 1 million Oregonians receive through the Oregon Health Plan. CCOs are community-governed organizations that bring together physical, mental health, addiction medicine, and dental health providers to coordinate care for people on the Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid).
Since 2012 Oregon’s coordinated care model has saved taxpayers an estimated $2.2 billion, while also reducing unnecessary emergency department visits, and improving preventive care for children and adults.
On June 5 OHA presented policy options and strategies to the Oregon Health Policy Board to shape the next five years of health care coverage offered through the Oregon Health Plan. The policy options were informed by public input gathered this spring through surveys, community forums, in-person and online stakeholder meetings, and emails.
The policies focus on four priority improvement areas identified by Governor Kate Brown:
- Maintain sustainable cost growth.
- Increase value-based payments that pay for performance.
- Focus on social determinants of health and equity.
- Improve the behavioral health system.
OHA will continue to gather public input on the policy options throughout the summer, and the Oregon Health Policy Board will adopt final recommendations this fall. Coordinated care contracts for 2020-2025 are expected to be awarded in summer 2019.
For more information, visit the CCO 2.0 webpage.
June 2018 community meeting schedule
Monday, June 18
Hood River, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Hood River Inn
1108 E Marina Drive
Tuesday, June 19
Hermiston, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.*
Eastern Oregon Trade and Event Center
1750 E Airport Road
Ontario, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Treasure Valley Community College, Weese Building, Room 110
650 College Blvd
Wednesday, June 20
Bend, noon to 2 p.m.
Central Oregon Community College, Wille Hall**
2600 NW College Way
Thursday, June 21
Portland, 6-8 p.m.
Madison High School
2735 NE 82nd Ave
Tuesday, June 26
Corvallis, 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Oregon State University LaSells Stewart Center
875 SW 26th Street
Springfield, 6-8 p.m.
Holiday Inn
919 Kruse Way
Wednesday, June 27
Astoria, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Astoria Armory
1636 Exchange Street
Coos Bay, 7-9 p.m.
Red Lion Inn
1313 N Bayshore Drive
Thursday, June 28
Klamath Falls, 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Henley Elementary School
8227 Highway 39
Spanish language interpretation services will be available at the meetings.
# # #
Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:
- Sign language and spoken language interpreters
- Written materials in other languages
- Braille
- Large print
- Audio and other formats
If you need help or have questions, please contact Lisa Bui at 971-673-3397, 711 TTY, or ui@state.or.us">Lisa.T.Bui@state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting. OHA will make every effort to provide services for requests made closer to the meeting.
*Time of meeting updated 6/12/18.
**Meeting place updated 6/18/18.
June 15, 2018
High algae toxin levels found in Upper Klamath Lake
A health advisory was issued today for Upper Klamath Lake. The lake is located off Oregon Route 140, 15 miles west of Klamath Falls in Klamath County.
Water monitoring has confirmed the presence of blue-green algae and the toxins they produce in this area of Upper Klamath Lake. These toxin concentrations can be harmful to humans and animals.
People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas where blooms are identified. Although toxins are not absorbed through the skin, people who have skin sensitivities may experience a puffy red rash at the affected area.
Drinking water directly from this area of the lake at this time is especially dangerous. Oregon public health officials advise campers and other recreational visitors that toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water with camping-style filters.
People who draw in-home water directly from the affected area are advised to use an alternative water source because private treatment systems are not proven effective for removing algae toxins. However, public drinking water systems can reduce algae toxins through proper filtration and disinfection. If people connected to public water systems have questions about treatment and testing, they should contact their water supplier. If community members have questions about water available at nearby campgrounds, they should contact campground management.
Oregon health officials recommend that those who choose to eat fish from waters where algae blooms are present remove all fat, skin and organs before cooking, as toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues. Fillets should also be rinsed with clean water. Public health officials also advise people to not eat freshwater clams or mussels from Upper Klamath Lake and that Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations do not allow the harvest of these shellfish from freshwater sources. Crayfish muscle can be eaten, but internal organs and liquid fat should be discarded.
Exposure to toxins can produce a variety of symptoms including numbness, tingling and dizziness that can lead to difficulty breathing or heart problems, and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of skin irritation, weakness, diarrhea, nausea, cramps and fainting should also receive medical attention if they persist or worsen. Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. People who bring their pets to Eagle Ridge County Park for recreation activities should take special precautions to keep them from drinking from or swimming in the lake.
The advisory will be lifted when the concern no longer exists.
With proper precautions to avoid water contact, people are encouraged to visit Upper Klamath Lake and enjoy activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, and bird watching. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray, which could lead to inhalation risk.
For health information or to report an illness, contact the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) at 971-673-0440.
OHA maintains an updated list of all health advisories on its website. To learn if an advisory has been issued or lifted for a specific water body, visit the Harmful Algae Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab and select “algae bloom advisories,” or call the Oregon Public Health Division toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.
# # #
June 15, 2018
Recreational use health advisory for Detroit Lake re-issued June 15
High toxin levels found in Linn-Marion county lake
The Oregon Health Authority re-issued a recreational health advisory today for Detroit Lake, located 46 miles southeast of Salem. The lake spans both Linn and Marion counties.
Water monitoring has again confirmed the presence of harmful algae above Oregon Health Authority recreational guideline values for cyanotoxins. At measured levels cyanotoxins can be harmful to humans and animals. Oregon health officials advise recreational visitors to always be alert to signs of harmful algae and avoid areas with visible scum that looks foamy, thick like paint, pea-green, blue-green or brownish-red, or where small bright-green clumps are floating in the water.
Since May 29, Oregon Health Authority officials have been receiving daily samples for Detroit Lake from the City of Salem. It is unusual for the Harmful Algae Bloom Program to get daily samples. Typically, the program receives sample results for recreational bodies of water on a weekly basis. OHA's guidelines require the agency to issue an advisory whenever cyanotoxin levels exceed recreational guideline values.
This more-frequent-than-usual sampling, along with daily changes in toxin levels measured in that daily sampling from Detroit Lake, is the reason recreational advisories have been issued and lifted so often for Detroit Lake.
People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas where blooms are identified. Although toxins are not absorbed through the skin, people who have skin sensitivities may experience a puffy red rash at the affected area.
People who draw in-home water directly from the affected area are advised to use an alternative water source because private treatment systems are not proven effective for removing algae toxins. However, public drinking water systems can reduce algae toxins through proper filtration and disinfection. The Santiam River downstream of Detroit Lake is the source of drinking water for several cities, including the City of Salem. On June 10, the City of Salem’s drinking water advisory for vulnerable populations was extended for at least two more weeks. For more information about the city’s water advisory, visit http://www.cityofsalem.net/.
Exposure to toxins can produce a variety of symptoms including numbness, tingling and dizziness that can lead to difficulty breathing or heart problems and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of skin irritation, weakness, diarrhea, nausea, cramps and fainting should also receive medical attention if they persist or worsen. Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. People who bring their pets to Detroit Lake for recreation activities should take special precautions to keep them from drinking from or swimming in the lake.
Drinking water directly from Detroit Lake at this time is especially dangerous. OHA Public Health Division officials advise campers and other recreational visitors that toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water with camping-style filters. If community members have questions about water available at nearby campgrounds, they should contact campground management.
Oregon health officials recommend that those who choose to eat fish from waters where algae blooms are present remove all fat, skin and organs before cooking, as toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues. Fillets should also be rinsed with clean water. Public health officials also advise people to not eat freshwater clams or mussels from Detroit Lake and that Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations do not allow the harvest of these shellfish from freshwater sources. Crayfish muscle can be eaten, but internal organs and liquid fat should be discarded.
The advisory will be lifted when the concern no longer exists.
With proper precautions to avoid activities during which water can be ingested, people are encouraged to visit Detroit Lake and enjoy activities such as canoeing, fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, and bird watching. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Although inhalation risk is much lower than ingestion, it can present a risk.
For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0400. For campground or lake information, call the local management agency.
OHA maintains an updated list of all health advisories on its website. To learn if an advisory has been issued or lifted for a specific water body, visit the Harmful Algae Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab and select “algae bloom advisories,” or call the Oregon Public Health Division toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.
# # #
June 15, 2018
Cannabis Commission Patient Access Subcommittee meets June 22 in Portland
What: The monthly public meeting of the Oregon Cannabis Commission Patient Access Subcommittee
Agenda: TBD
When: June 22, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Where: Portland State Office Building, Conference Room 1B, 800 NE Oregon St., Portland. The public may also attend by conference call at 877-848-7030, access code 753428.
Background: The Oregon Cannabis Commission was established in the 2017 legislative session through HB 2198. The commission consists of the state health officer or designee and and eight members appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. The commission is tasked with determining a possible framework for future governance of the Oregon Medical Marijuana Program, steps to address research on cannabis in areas of public health policy and public safety policy, agronomic and horticultural best practices, and medical and pharmacopoeia best practices. Along with this, the commission advises the Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Liquor Control Commission about statutes governing medical and retail cannabis. For more information, visit the commission's webpage at http://www.healthoregon.org/cannabiscommission.
# # #
Everyone has a right to know about and use the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:
- Sign language and spoken language interpreters
- Written material in other languages
- Braille
- Large print
- Audio and other formats
If you need help or have questions, please contact Shannon McFadden at 971-673-3181, 711 TTY or shannon.m.mcfadden@state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.
June 14, 2018
Reduced blue-green algae and toxin levels confirmed
The Oregon Health Authority has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued June 13 for Detroit Lake, located 46 miles southeast of Salem. The lake spans both Linn and Marion counties.
Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of harmful algae toxins in the lake are below recreational guideline values for human exposure. However, Oregon Health officials advise recreational visitors to always be alert to signs of harmful algae in all Oregon waters, because blooms can develop and disappear throughout the season. Only a fraction of the many lakes and waterways in Oregon are monitored for harmful algae by state, federal and local agencies, therefore, you are your own best advocate when it comes to keeping you and your family safe while recreating.
Detroit Lake is upstream of the source of drinking water for some public water systems. Data provided by the City of Salem for Detroit Lake and the Santiam River has confirmed that toxins are below OHA advisory values for recreational water, and drinking water. While the recreational advisory for Detroit Lake is being lifted, the drinking water advisory for vulnerable populations for the City of Salem will remain in place, until the city is assured that toxins remain below OHA drinking water advisory values.
The drinking water advisory levels for vulnerable populations are different for recreational use than for drinking water. The amount of water people incidentally swallow while recreating (swimming, water skiing, etc.) is much lower than when people use it as a primary drinking water source. For drinking water concerns, visit the City of Salem’s drinking water advisory or the Oregon Health Authority’s Drinking Water Services website at http://healthoregon.org/dws. You can also dial 211 for information on the drinking water advisory.
People and especially small children and pets should avoid recreating in areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green, blue-green or brownish red in color, if a thick mat of blue-green algae is visible in the water, or bright green cells are suspended in the water column. If you observe these signs in the water you are encouraged to avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities.
For recreational health information, to report human or pet illnesses due to blooms or cyanotoxins in recreational waters, contact the Oregon Health Authority at 971-673-0440. For information about recreational advisories issued or lifted for the season, contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 1-877-290-6767 or visit the Harmful Algae Blooms website at http://healthoregon.org/hab and select “Algae Bloom Advisories.”
# # #
June 14, 2018
What: The state Dental Pilot Project Advisory Committee is holding its annual meeting; the meeting will cover Dental Pilot Project #100, “Oregon Tribes Dental Health Aide Therapist Pilot Project.”
Agenda: Trauma Informed Care; Dental Project Manager; Data Presentation; Project Update; CODA Application; Project Process; Future Site Visits.
When: June 18, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. A public comment period will be held at the end of the meeting.
Where: Portland State Office Building, 800 NE Oregon St., Room 1A, Portland. Conference line: 1-888-273-3658, participants code: 76-64-09
Background: Dental Pilot Projects are intended to evaluate the quality of care, access, cost, workforce and efficacy by teaching new skills to existing categories of dental personnel; developing new categories of dental personnel; accelerating the training of existing categories of dental personnel; or teaching new oral health care roles to previously untrained persons.
# # #
Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:
- Sing language and spoken language interpreters
- Written materials in other languages
- Braille
- Large print
- Audio and other formats
If you need help or have questions, please contact Sarah Kowalski at 971-673-1563, 711 TTY or sarah.e.kowalski@state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.
June 13, 2018
Conference of Local Health Officials meets June 21 in Portland
What: The monthly public meeting of the Conference of Local Health Officials (CLHO)
Agenda: Includes public health modernization funding formula matching funds framework; tobacco prevention and education funding update; Behavioral Health Collaborative update; drinking water and cyanotoxins; maternal and child health strategic plan; training expectations and guidance.
The meeting agenda and related materials will be posted on the CLHO website at http://www.oregonclho.org/about/clho-meetings/.
When: June 21, 9:30-11:30 a.m. The meeting is open to the public. No conference call option is available for the public.
Where: Portland State Office Building, Room 221, 800 NE Oregon Street, Portland
The Conference of Local Health Officials provides recommendations to the Oregon Health Authority on the foundational capabilities and programs and any other public health program or activity under ORS 431.147. (ORS 431.340)
Program contact: Danna Drum, 971-673-1223, um@state.or.us">danna.k.drum@state.or.us
# # #
Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:
- Sing language and spoken language interpreters
- Written materials in other languages
- Braille
- Large print
- Audio and other formats
If you need help or have questions, please contact Danna Drum at 971-673-1223, 711 TTY or um@state.or.us">danna.k.drum@state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.
June 13, 2018
Contact: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, phd.communications@state.or.us
Recreational health advisory re-issued June 13 for Detroit Lake
High toxin levels found in Linn-Marion county lake
The Oregon Health Authority re-issued a recreational health advisory today for Detroit Lake, located 46 miles southeast of Salem. The lake spans both Linn and Marion counties.
Water monitoring has again confirmed the presence of harmful algae above Oregon Health Authority recreational guideline values for cyanotoxins. At measured levels cyanotoxins can be harmful to humans and animals. Oregon health officials advise recreational visitors to always be alert to signs of harmful algae and avoid areas with visible scum that looks foamy, thick like paint, pea-green, blue-green or brownish-red, or where small bright-green clumps are floating in the water.
On Friday, June 8, OHA lifted a recreational advisory that had been issued May 23 for the lake.
People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities such as water skiing or power boating, in areas where blooms are identified. Although toxins are not absorbed through the skin, people who have skin sensitivities may experience a puffy red rash at the affected area.
People who draw in-home water directly from the affected area are advised to use an alternative water source because private treatment systems are not proven effective for removing algae toxins. However, public drinking water systems can reduce algae toxins through proper filtration and disinfection. The Santiam River downstream of Detroit Lake is the source of drinking water for several cities, including the City of Salem. On June 10, the City of Salem’s drinking water advisory for vulnerable populations was extended for at least two more weeks. For more information about the city’s water advisory, visit http://www.cityofsalem.net/.
Exposure to toxins can produce a variety of symptoms including numbness, tingling and dizziness that can lead to difficulty breathing or heart problems and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of skin irritation, weakness, diarrhea, nausea, cramps and fainting should also receive medical attention if they persist or worsen. Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. People who bring their pets to Detroit Lake for recreation activities should take special precautions to keep them from drinking from or swimming in the lake.
Drinking water directly from Detroit Lake at this time is especially dangerous. OHA Public Health Division officials advise campers and other recreational visitors that toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water with camping-style filters. If community members have questions about water available at nearby campgrounds, they should contact campground management.
Oregon health officials recommend that those who choose to eat fish from waters where algae blooms are present remove all fat, skin and organs before cooking, as toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues. Fillets should also be rinsed with clean water. Public health officials also advise people to not eat freshwater clams or mussels from Detroit Lake and that Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations do not allow the harvest of these shellfish from freshwater sources. Crayfish muscle can be eaten, but internal organs and liquid fat should be discarded.
The advisory will be lifted when the concern no longer exists.
With proper precautions to avoid activities during which water can be ingested, people are encouraged to visit Detroit Lake and enjoy activities such as canoeing, fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, and bird watching. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Although inhalation risk is much lower than ingestion, it can present a risk.
For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0400. For campground or lake information, call the local management agency.
OHA maintains an updated list of all health advisories on its website. To learn if an advisory has been issued or lifted for a specific water body, visit the Harmful Algae Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab and select “algae bloom advisories,” or call the Oregon Public Health Division toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.
# # #
June 13, 2018
Recreational health advisory issued June 13 for Dorena Reservoir
High cell counts of harmful algae found in Lane County lake
The Oregon Health Authority issued a recreational health advisory today for Dorena Reservoir, located six miles east of Cottage Grove in Lane County.
Water monitoring has confirmed the presence of harmful algae above Oregon Health Authority recreational guideline values for cell counts. Harmful algae at this level are likely to be associated with cyanotoxin concentrations that can be harmful to humans and animals.
Oregon health officials advise recreational visitors to always be alert to signs of harmful algae and avoid areas with visible scum that looks foamy, thick like paint, pea-green, blue-green or brownish-red, or where small bright-green clumps are floating in the water.
People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities such as water skiing or power boating, in areas where blooms are identified. Although toxins are not absorbed through the skin, people who have skin sensitivities may experience a puffy red rash at the affected area.
People who draw in-home water directly from the affected area are advised to use an alternate water source because private treatment systems are not proven effective for removing algae toxins. However, public drinking water systems can reduce algae toxins through proper filtration and disinfection.
The Row River downstream of Dorena Reservoir is the source of drinking water for the City of Cottage Grove. Drinking water samples at this time show no detections of toxins. If people connected to the City of Cottage Grove public water system have questions about treatment and testing, they should contact the water supplier directly.
Exposure to toxins can produce a variety of symptoms including numbness, tingling and dizziness that can lead to difficulty breathing or heart problems and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of skin irritation, weakness, diarrhea, nausea, cramps and fainting should also receive medical attention if they persist or worsen. Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. People who bring their pets to Dorena Reservoir for recreation activities should take special precautions to keep them from drinking from or swimming in the lake.
Drinking water directly from Dorena Reservoir at this time is especially dangerous. OHA Public Health Division officials advise campers and other recreational visitors that toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water with camping-style filters. If community members have questions about water available at nearby campgrounds, they should contact campground management.
Oregon health officials recommend that those who choose to eat fish from waters where algae blooms are present remove all fat, skin and organs before cooking, as toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues. Fillets should also be rinsed with clean water. Public health officials also advise people to not eat freshwater clams or mussels from Dorena Reservoir and that Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations do not allow the harvest of these shellfish from freshwater sources. Crayfish muscle can be eaten, but internal organs and liquid fat should be discarded.
The advisory will be lifted when the concern no longer exists.
With proper precautions to avoid activities during which water can be ingested, people are encouraged to visit Dorena Reservoir and enjoy activities such as canoeing, fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, and bird watching. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Although inhalation risk is much lower than ingestion, it can present a risk.
For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0400. For campground or lake information, call the local management agency.
OHA maintains an updated list of all health advisories on its website. To learn if an advisory has been issued or lifted for a specific water body, visit the Harmful Algae Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab and select “algae bloom advisories,” or call the Oregon Public Health Division toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.
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June 11, 2018
Contact: Heather Johnson, 503-508-8276, .n.johnson@state.or.us">heather.n.johnson@state.or.us (meeting information or accommodation)
Metrics and Scoring Committee to meet June 15 in Wilsonville
What: A public meeting of the Oregon Health Authority Metrics and Scoring Committee
When: Friday, June 15, 9 a.m. to noon. Public testimony will be heard at 9:25 a.m.
Where: Clackamas Community College Wilsonville Training Center, Room 211, 29353 SW Town Center Loop E, Wilsonville
Attendees can also follow the presentation by webinar and listen to discussion by telephone. Register for the webinar at https://register.gotowebinar.com/rt/7438627555801803523. Conference line: 888-204-5984, participant code 1277-166. The telephone will be unmuted during public testimony.
Agenda: Welcome, consent agenda and updates; public testimony; statewide areas for quality improvement; review committee homework; 2019 measure set staff recommendations; begin selecting 2019 measure set.
For more information, please visit the committee's website at http://www.oregon.gov/oha/hpa/analytics/Pages/Metrics-Scoring-Committee.aspx.
# # #
Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:
- Sign language and spoken language interpreters
- Written materials in other languages
- Braille
- Large print
- Audio and other formats
If you need help or have questions, please contact Heather Johnson at 503-508-8276, 711 TTY, .n.johnson@state.or.us">heather.n.johnson@state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.
June 11, 2018
Cannabis Commission Research Subcommittee meets June 18 in Portland
What: The monthly public meeting of the Oregon Cannabis Commission's Research Subcommittee.
Agenda: TBD
When: Monday June 18, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Where: Portland State Office Building, Conference Room 1B, 800 NE Oregon St., Portland. Conference call line: 877-848-7030, access code 753428.
Background: The Oregon Cannabis Commission was established in the 2017 legislative session through HB 2198. The commission consists of the state health officer or designee and an eight-member panel appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. The commission is tasked with determining a possible framework for future governance of the Oregon Medical Marijuana Program, steps to address research on cannabis in areas of public health policy and public safety policy, agronomic and horticultural best practices, and medical and pharmacopoeia best practices. Along with this, it advises the Oregon Health Authority and the Oregon Liquor Control Commission with respect to the statutes governing medical and retail cannabis:
More information on the commission's webpage at http://www.healthoregon.org/cannabiscommission.
# # #
Everyone has a right to know about and use the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:
- Sign language and spoken language interpreters
- Written material in other languages
- Braille
- Large print
- Audio and other formats
If you need help or have questions, please contact Shannon McFadden at 971-673-3181, 711 TTY or shannon.m.mcfadden@state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.
June 11, 2018
Cannabis Commission Product Integrity Subcommittee meets June 18 in Portland
What: The monthly public meeting of the Oregon Cannabis Commission's Product Integrity Subcommittee
Agenda: TBD
When: Monday, June 18, 9-11 a.m.
Where: Portland State Office Building, Conference Room 1B, 800 NE Oregon St., Portland. Conference call line: 877-848-7030, access code 753428.
Background: The Oregon Cannabis Commission was established in the 2017 legislative session through HB 2198. The commission consists of the state health officer or designee and an eight-member panel appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. The commission is tasked with determining a possible framework for future governance of the Oregon Medical Marijuana Program, steps to address research on cannabis in areas of public health policy and public safety policy, agronomic and horticultural best practices, and medical and pharmacopoeia best practices. Along with this, it advises the Oregon Health Authority and the Oregon Liquor Control Commission with respect to the statutes governing medical and retail cannabis:
More information on the commission's webpage at http://www.healthoregon.org/cannabiscommission.
# # #
Everyone has a right to know about and use the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:
- Sign language and spoken language interpreters
- Written material in other languages
- Braille
- Large print
- Audio and other formats
If you need help or have questions, please contact Shannon McFadden at 971-673-3181, 711 TTY or shannon.m.mcfadden@state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.
June 8, 2018
Recreational use health advisory lifted June 8 for Detroit Lake
Reduced harmful algae and toxin levels confirmed
The Oregon Health Authority has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued May 23 for Detroit Lake, located 46 miles southeast of Salem. The lake spans both Linn and Marion counties.
Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of harmful algae toxins in the lake are below recreational guideline values for human exposure. However, Oregon health officials advise recreational visitors to always be alert to signs of harmful algae in all Oregon waters, because blooms can develop and disappear throughout the season. Only a fraction of the many lakes and waterways in Oregon are monitored for harmful algae by state, federal and local agencies; therefore, you are your own best advocate when it comes to keeping you and your family safe while recreating.
Detroit Lake is upstream of the source of drinking water for some public water systems. While the recreational advisory for Detroit Lake is being lifted, the drinking water advisory for vulnerable populations for the City of Salem will remain in place. The drinking water advisory levels for vulnerable populations are different for recreational use than for drinking water. The amount of water people incidentally swallow while recreating (swimming, water skiing, etc.) is much lower than when people use it as a primary drinking water source. For drinking water concerns, visit the City of Salem’s drinking water advisory webpage or the Oregon Health Authority’s Drinking Water Services webpage. You can also dial 211 for information on the drinking water advisory.
People and especially small children and pets should avoid recreating in areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green, blue-green or brownish red in color, if a thick mat of blue-green algae is visible in the water, or bright green cells are suspended in the water column. If you observe these signs in the water you are encouraged to avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities.
For recreational health information, to report human or pet illnesses due to blooms or cyanotoxins in recreational waters, contact the Oregon Health Authority at 971-673-0440. For information about recreational advisories issued or lifted for the season, contact the Oregon Public Health toll-free information line at 877-290-6767 or visit the Harmful Algae Blooms website at http://healthoregon.org/hab and select “Algae Bloom Advisories.”
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June 6, 2018
Dental Pilot Project Rules Advisory Committee meets June 11
What: One of a series of rules advisory committee (RAC) meetings by the Oregon Health Authority Public Health Division Oral Health Program to discuss amendments to dental pilot project rules.
When: June 11, 9-11 a.m. A public comment period will be held at the end of the meeting.
Where: Portland State Office Building, Room 1A, 800 NE Oregon St., Portland. The public can also attend remotely by telephone conference line at 888-273-3658, participant code 76-64-09.
Agenda: Review background information; brief overview of the rulemaking process; review draft amended rules; next steps
Background: The purpose of the RAC is to provide feedback and input on the development of amended rule language, as well as review the statement of need and fiscal impact for the proposed rules.
Senate Bill 738, passed by the Oregon State Legislature in 2011, allows the Oregon Health Authority to approve dental pilot projects once an application has been approved. These projects are intended to evaluate the quality of care, access, cost, workforce, and efficacy by teaching new skills to existing categories of dental personnel; developing new categories of dental personnel; accelerating the training of existing categories of dental personnel; or teaching new oral health care roles to previously untrained persons.
Materials: Copies of materials are available online at healthoregon.org/dpp.
# # #
Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:
- Sing language and spoken language interpreters
- Written materials in other languages
- Braille
- Large print
- Audio and other formats
If you need help or have questions, please contact Sarah Kowalski at 971-673-1563, 711 TTY or ah.e.kowalski@state.or.us">sarah.e.kowalski@state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.
June 8, 2018
Public Health Advisory Board meets June 21 in Portland
What: The regular public meeting of the Public Health Advisory Board
When: Thursday, June 21, 2-5 p.m. A public comment period will be held at the end of the meeting.
Where: Portland State Office Building, Conference Room 1B, 800 NE Oregon St., Portland. The public also can attend remotely by webinar at https://register.gotowebinar.com/rt/4888122320415752707, or by telephone at 877-873-8017, access code 767068#.
Agenda: Receive subcommittee updates; adopt updates to local public health authority accountability metrics; discuss the future direction of public health modernization in Oregon; discuss criteria for matching county investment in public health; review the Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant work plan; receive updates on the progress of local public health modernization projects.
Oregon’s Public Health Advisory Board provides guidance for Oregon’s governmental public health system and oversees the implementation of public health modernization and Oregon’s State Health Improvement Plan.
# # #
Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:
• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats
If you need help or have questions, please contact Cara Biddlecom at 971-673-2284, 711 TTY or a.m.biddlecom@state.or.us">cara.m.biddlecom@state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.
June 6, 2018
Public hearing June 13 for Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant plan
What: A hearing by the Oregon Health Authority Public Health Division to take public comments on its proposal for the use of funds from the Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant.
Agenda: Review of Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant proposal for October 2018 through September 2019. Public comment will be taken. The draft proposal is posted on the OHA Public Health Division website at http://www.healthoregon.org/lhd.
When: Wednesday, June 13, 9 a.m.
Where: Portland State Office Building, Room 1-C, 800 NE Oregon Street, Portland. The public also can attend remotely by calling the conference line at 877-873-8017, participant code 767068#.
The meeting site is accessible to people with disabilities.
# # #
Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:
- Sing language and spoken language interpreters
- Written materials in other languages
- Braille
- Large print
- Audio and other formats
If you need help or have questions, please contact Danna Drum at 971-673-1223, 711 TTY or um@state.or.us">danna.k.drum@state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.
June 4, 2018
Contact: Jennifer Uhlman, 503-739-5267, .m.uhlman@dhsoha.state.or.us">jennifer.m.uhlman@dhsoha.state.or.us (meeting information or accommodation)
Health Aspects of Kindergarten Readiness Technical Workgroup to meet June 7 and by webinar
What: A regular public meeting of the Oregon Health Authority’s Health Aspects of Kindergarten Readiness Technical Workgroup
When: June 7, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Clackamas Community College Wilsonville Training Center, 29353 SW Town Center Loop E., Wilsonville, Room 111
Attendees can also join remotely by webinar at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7616557129878176770 and by conference line: at 877-810-9415, participant code 1773452.
Agenda: Welcome and introductions, assess four measures, HPQMC measures for consideration, areas of workgroup interest, potential phased approach, public comment, summary
For more information, please visit the committee's website at http://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/ANALYTICS/Pages/KR-Health.aspx.
# # #
Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:
- Sign language and spoken language interpreters
- Written materials in other languages
- Braille
- Large print
- Audio and other formats
If you need help or have questions, please contact Jennifer Uhlman at 503-739-5267, 711 TTY, .m.uhlman@dhsoha.state.or.us">jennifer.m.uhlman@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.
June 1, 2018
Public Health Advisory Board to hold special meeting June 7 by webinar
What: A special meeting of the Public Health Advisory Board
Agenda: Discuss the 2018 Public Health Modernization Report to Legislative Fiscal Office
When: June 7, 1-2 p.m. The meeting is open to the public. A public comment period will be held at the end of the meeting.
Where: Available remotely by webinar at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1475582378805350401, and by conference call at 877-873-8017, access code 767068#.
The Public Health Advisory Board provides guidance for Oregon’s governmental public health system and oversees the implementation of public health modernization and Oregon’s State Health Improvement Plan.
# # #
Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:
• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats
If you need help or have questions, please contact Cara Biddlecom at 971-673-2284, 711 TTY or a.m.biddlecom@state.or.us">cara.m.biddlecom@state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.
June 1, 2018
Tobacco Reduction Advisory Committee meets June 5 in Portland
What: A public meeting of the Tobacco Reduction Advisory Committee
When: June 5, 3-4 p.m.
Where: Portland State Office Building, Room 1C, 800 NE Oregon St., Portland. Please note that space is limited.
Who: The Tobacco Reduction Advisory Committee is appointed by the Governor. Its members come from private organizations and state agencies dedicated to the reduction of the harmful impact of Oregonians’ tobacco use.
Agenda: Agenda items include Tobacco Prevention and Education Program (TPEP) budget update.
# # #
Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:
- Sign language and spoken language interpreters
- Written materials in other languages
- Braille
- Large print
- Audio and other formats
If you need help or have questions, please contact Sarah Barnard at 971-673-1347, 711 TTY or sarah.barnard@state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.
May 29, 2018
Oregon kindergarten vaccine exemption rate increases sharply
OHA analysis shows steady climb since early 2000s, big rise in past year
PORTLAND, Ore.— A new state analysis shows Oregon has seen a sharp increase in the rate of parents choosing nonmedical exemptions to vaccines for their kindergarten-age children.
In 2015, the first year after a new law went into effect requiring parents and guardians to take certain steps to claim a nonmedical exemption, Oregon’s kindergarten nonmedical exemption rate fell from 7 percent to 5.8 percent, according to Oregon Health Authority data. However, since that initial decrease, the rates have increased each year, to 6.2 percent in 2016, 6.5 percent in 2017 and 7.5 percent in 2018.
Nonmedical exemption rates in Oregon counties in 2018 for students in grades K-12 ranged from 1 percent in Morrow County to 10 percent in Josephine County. Individual school and child care rates for sites with 10 or more students are available on OHA's School Immunization Coverage webpage at http://www.healthoregon.org/immdatamap.
“While more nonmedical exemptions mean fewer children are being immunized, the vast majority of Oregon parents and guardians still choose to fully immunize their children,” said Stacy de Assis Matthews, immunization school law coordinator with the Oregon Immunization Program, based at the OHA Public Health Division. “Most parents and guardians know that immunization is still the best way to protect children against vaccine-preventable diseases such as whooping cough and measles.”
Oregon’s immunization law helps ensure that children can go to school in a safe and healthy environment free of vaccine-preventable diseases. The law protects nearly 700,000 students in 3,500 public and private schools, preschools, Head Starts and certified child care programs. School immunization mandates are an evidence-based best practice for increasing immunization rates and decreasing vaccine-preventable disease outbreaks.
State law requires that children be immunized against diseases including diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, chickenpox, measles, mumps, rubella and hepatitis. The number of required vaccinations can vary depending on the child’s age or grade level and type of facility. Exemptions are also available. The full schedule is available on OHA's Required Immunizations webpage at http://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/PREVENTIONWELLNESS/VACCINESIMMUNIZATION/GETTINGIMMUNIZED/Pages/SchRequiredImm.aspx.
Matthews believes that health care providers play an important role in educating parents about immunizations.
“If you have questions about vaccines from something you saw on the internet, talk to your child’s health care provider,” Matthews said. Providers also need to be reassured it’s OK to talk to parents about vaccines and encourage their use.
“We all want healthy children and healthy communities, and one important way we get there is with immunizations,” Matthews said. “Providers play a crucial role in this effort.”
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May 29, 2018
Oregon Health Policy Board meets June 5 in Portland
What: The monthly meeting of the Oregon Health Policy Board
When: Tuesday, June 5, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: OHSU Center for Health & Healing, 3303 SW Bond Ave, 3rd floor Room 4
Members of the public can call in to listen by dialing 888-808-6929, participant code 915042#.
Agenda: welcome; minutes approval; OHA reorganization approval; CCO 2.0 policy option review sessions for behavioral health, value-based payment, sustainable costs and social determinants of health and equity; Health Plan Quality Metrics Committee measure selection update
For more information on the meeting, visit the board’s meeting page at http://www.oregon.gov/OHA/OHPB/Pages/OHPB-Meetings.aspx.
# # #
Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:
- Sign language and spoken language interpreters
- Written materials in other languages
- Braille
- Large print
- Audio and other formats
If you need help or have questions, please contact Jeff Scroggin at 541-999-6983, 711 TTY, ey.scroggin@state.or.us">jeffrey.scroggin@state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.
May 25, 2018
OHA behavioral health leaders to hold advocate listening session June 8
What: A listening session with the Oregon Health Authority’s new behavioral health leadership
When: June 8, 2:30-4:30 p.m.
Where: Oregon State Hospital, Salem Campus, Callan Conference Room, 2600 Center Street NE, Salem
The public can also join through a listen-only conference line at 877-402-9753, access code 7902317. A webinar will also be available. To attend remotely by webinar contact Jacee Vangestel at 503-945-2852 or jacee.m.vangestel@dhsoha.state.or.us by 5 p.m. Thursday, June 7.
Who: The Oregon Health Authority is hosting this listening session to give peers, advocates, consumers, survivors and the public the opportunity to meet and speak with the agency’s new behavioral health leaders:
- Dolly Matteucci – Oregon State Hospital superintendent
- Brandy Hemsley – Office of Consumer Activities director
- Chelsea Holcomb – Child, Adolescent & Family Behavioral Health Services manager
Also present will be:
- Patrick Allen – Oregon Health Authority director
- Royce Bowlin – Behavioral Health director
- Dana Hargunani, M.D. – Chief medical officer
# # #
Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:
• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats
If you need help or have questions, please contact Jacee Vangestel at 503-945-2852, 711 TTY, or jacee.m.vangestel@dhsoha.state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.
May 25, 2018
Health advisory for water contact at Sunset Bay State Park Beach lifted May 25
Testing shows fecal bacteria levels have subsided
The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) today lifted a public health advisory for contact with marine water at Sunset Bay State Park Beach in Coos County. The health authority issued the advisory May 25 after water samples showed higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters.
Results from later samples taken by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) showed lower bacteria levels. Contact with the water no longer poses a higher-than-normal risk. However, officials recommend staying out of large pools on the beach that are frequented by birds, and runoff from those pools, because the water may contain increased bacteria from fecal matter.
State officials continue to encourage other recreational activities at all Oregon beaches, suggesting only that water contact be avoided when advisories are in effect.
Since 2003 state officials have used a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grant to monitor popular Oregon beaches and make timely reports to the public about elevated levels of fecal bacteria. Oregon state agencies participating in this program are OHA, DEQ and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.
For more information, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0440, or call the OHA toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.
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May 23, 2018
Contact: Jennifer Uhlman, 503-939-5267, .m.uhlman@state.or.us">jennifer.m.uhlman@state.or.us (meeting information)
Health Aspects of Kindergarten Readiness Technical Workgroup to meet May 25
What: A public meeting of the Health Aspects of Kindergarten Readiness Technical Workgroup
When: May 25, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Clackamas Community College Wilsonville Training Center, Room 111, 29353 SW Town Center Loop E, Wilsonville. The public can also join remotely through a webinar at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7981516923666264067and by telephone conference line at 877-810-9415, participant code 1773452.
Agenda: Welcome and introductions; refresher on conceptual framework; review and adopt criteria; practice applying the conceptual framework; reviewing potential measures for Phase 1; public comment (to be taken at 12.45 p.m.)
For more information, please visit the technical workgroup’s website at http://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/ANALYTICS/Pages/KR-Health.aspx.
# # #
Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:
- Sign language and spoken language interpreters
- Written materials in other languages
- Braille
- Large print
- Audio and other formats
If you need help or have questions, please contact Melisa Otrugman at 503-689-5238, 711 TTY, ugman@state.or.us">melisa.z.otrugman@state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.
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Correcting for contact telephone number
May 23, 2018
Health advisory issued May 23 for Detroit Lake
High toxin levels found in Linn-Marion county lake
The Oregon Health Authority issued a health advisory today for Detroit Lake, located 46 miles southeast of Salem. The lake spans both Linn and Marion counties.
Water monitoring has confirmed the presence of blue-green algae and the toxins they produce in Detroit Lake. These toxin concentrations can be harmful to humans and animals.
People should avoid swallowing water while swimming or inhaling water droplets as a result of high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas where blooms are identified. Although toxins are not absorbed through the skin, people who have skin sensitivities may experience a puffy red rash at the affected area. Officials advise people to avoid areas with visible scum that looks foamy, thick like paint, pea-green, blue-green or brownish-red, or where small bright-green clumps are floating in the water.
Drinking water directly from Detroit Lake at this time is especially dangerous. OHA Public Health Division officials advise campers and other recreational visitors that toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water with camping-style filters.
People who draw in-home water directly from the affected area are advised to use an alternative water source because private treatment systems are not proven effective for removing algae toxins. However, public drinking water systems can reduce algae toxins through proper filtration and disinfection. If people connected to public water systems have questions about treatment and testing, they should contact their water supplier. If community members have questions about water available at nearby campgrounds, they should contact campground management.
Oregon health officials recommend that those who choose to eat fish from waters where algae blooms are present remove all fat, skin and organs before cooking, as toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues. Fillets should also be rinsed with clean water. Public health officials also advise people to not eat freshwater clams or mussels from Detroit Lake and that Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations do not allow the harvest of these shellfish from freshwater sources. Crayfish muscle can be eaten, but internal organs and liquid fat should be discarded.
Exposure to toxins can produce a variety of symptoms including numbness, tingling and dizziness that can lead to difficulty breathing or heart problems and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of skin irritation, weakness, diarrhea, nausea, cramps and fainting should also receive medical attention if they persist or worsen. Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. People who bring their pets to Detroit Lake for recreation activities should take special precautions to keep them from drinking from or swimming in the lake.
The advisory will be lifted when the concern no longer exists.
With proper precautions to avoid activities during which water can be ingested, people are encouraged to visit Detroit Lake and enjoy activities such as canoeing, fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, and bird watching. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Although inhalation risk is much lower than ingestion, it can present a risk.
For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0400. For campground or lake information, call the local management agency.
OHA maintains an updated list of all health advisories on its website. To learn if an advisory has been issued or lifted for a specific water body, visit the Harmful Algae Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab and select “algae bloom advisories,” or call the Oregon Public Health Division toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.
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May 23, 2018
Health advisory issued May 23 for water contact at Sunset Bay State Park Beach
The Oregon Health Authority issued a public health advisory today for higher-than-normal levels of bacteria in ocean waters at Sunset Bay State Park Beach in Coos County.
Water samples indicate higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria, which can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections and other illnesses. People should avoid direct contact with the water in this area until the advisory is lifted. This applies especially to children and the elderly, who may be more vulnerable to waterborne bacteria.
Increased pathogen and fecal bacteria levels in ocean waters can come from both shore and inland sources such as stormwater runoff, sewer overflows, failing septic systems, and animal waste from livestock, pets and wildlife.
While this advisory is in effect at Sunset Bay State Park Beach, visitors should avoid wading in nearby creeks, pools of water on the beach, or in discolored water, and stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean. Even if there is no advisory in effect, officials recommend avoiding swimming in the ocean within 48 hours after a rainstorm.
Although state officials advise against water contact, they continue to encourage other recreational activities (flying kites, picnicking, playing on the beach, walking, etc.) on this beach because they pose no health risk even during an advisory. Neighboring beaches are not affected by this advisory.
The status of water contact advisories at beaches is subject to change. For the most recent information on advisories, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0440, or 877-290-6767 (toll-free).
Since 2003 state officials have used a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grant to monitor popular Oregon beaches and make timely reports to the public about elevated levels of fecal bacteria. Oregon state organizations participating in this program are the Oregon Health Authority, Department of Environmental Quality, and Parks and Recreation Department.
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May 23, 2018
Young author writes about navigating fatherhood
Rational Enquirer is published during Youth Sexual Health Awareness Month
Not every teen father is a deadbeat dad. That is the message Uhusti Gause wants to convey in a piece he wrote for the Rational Enquirer. The article “For the Sake of my Son” details the Centennial High School graduate’s path to fatherhood.
He was a freshman in high school when he found out his girlfriend was pregnant. “I was in total denial," the teenager wrote. "We didn’t even tell our parents or anyone else until we couldn’t hide it anymore.”
Uhusti is one of many youth authors and artists featured in the Rational Enquirer. The magazine is published once a year in May during Youth Sexual Health Awareness Month in Oregon. OHA and the Oregon Teen Pregnancy Task Force use the publication as resource tool for youth, parents and educators.
Uhusti hopes other youth learn from his experience to never give up on anything, even though it seems impossible. In the article, he recalled that problems surfaced once the baby was born and the teen couple ended up breaking up, but he was determined to be there for his son.
“I wasn’t allowed to see my son unless I went to her house," Uhusti wrote. "I wasn’t allowed to go inside so I would sit outside on the curb at her house holding him. "Even though I hated it, I still went and sat on the curb for as long as I could, just to see my son. I only went so he would know I loved him.”
Things eventually worked out for the teen dad, who now has joint custody of his son and his relationship with his son’s mother has reached a point where they can communicate and be friends. Uhusti is now going to college to become a pharmacist.
Alongside the heartfelt stories, poems and artwork, the Rational Enquirer has dozens of resources for assistance, information and referral.
Web versions of current and past Rational Enquirer editions are available on the OHA Public Health website at http://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/HEALTHYPEOPLEFAMILIES/YOUTH/Pages/re.aspx. To request printed copies, call 971-673-0249.
Submit an article
To submit articles, essays, pictures, poetry or original art for the next edition, contact Lindsay Weaver at lindsay.weaver@state.or.us. Submissions from youth related to healthy sexuality are encouraged.
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May 23, 2018
Immunization law advisory committee meets May 30 in Portland
What: A public meeting of the Oregon Immunization School/Children’s Facility/College Law Advisory Committee
Agenda:
- Introductions and declaration of conflict of interest.
- Public comment.
- Discussion of criteria used to review potential vaccine requirements.
- Review of meningococcal vaccines against criteria for consideration of school/college vaccine requirements (vote).
- Discussion of meningococcal vaccination and education best practices.
- Potential administrative rule changes: electronic documents, new hepatitis B schedule.
- 2017-2018 school and children’s facility immunization and exemption data.
When: May 30, 2-4 p.m. A 15-minute public comment period will be held at the beginning of the meeting; comments may be limited to three minutes or less, depending on the number of commenters. Those providing comments are encouraged to send written comments to egon.imm@state.or.us">oregon.imm@state.or.us by noon May 29 so they may be shared with committee members before the meeting.
Where: Portland State Office Building, Room 1E, 800 NE Oregon St., Portland. A conference call line is available at 866-377-3315, access code 9971040.
The Immunization School/Children’s Facility/College Law Advisory Committee advises the Oregon Health Authority on implementing rules for school, child care and college immunizations requirements. http://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/PREVENTIONWELLNESS/VACCINESIMMUNIZATION/IMMUNIZATIONPARTNERSHIPS/Pages/ISLAC.aspx
Program contact: Aaron Dunn, 971-673-0300, on.dunn@state.or.us">aaron.dunn@state.or.us
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Everyone has a right to know about and use the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:
- Sign language and spoken language interpreters
- Written material in other languages
- Braille
- Large print
- Audio and other formats
If you need help or have questions, please contact Aaron Dunn at 971-673-0300, 711 TTY or on.dunn@state.or.us">aaron.dunn@state.or.us at least 48 hours before the meeting.
May 22, 2018
Contact: Jon McElfresh, 503-385-3075, esh@dhsoha.state.or.us">jonathan.p.mcelfresh@dhsoha.state.or.us (meeting information or accommodation)
Metrics Technical Advisory Group to meet May 24 in Portland and by webinar
What: The regular public meeting of the Oregon Health Authority Metrics Technical Advisory Group
When: May 24, 1-3 p.m.
Where: Lincoln Building, eighth floor, Mary Conference Room, 421 SW Oak St., Portland
Attendees can also join remotely by webinar at https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3012336791554163970 and telephone conference line at 888-398-2342, participant code 5731389.
Agenda: Welcome and introductions; updates; eCQMs; review 2019 CCO incentive measure set recommendations; non-incentivized measure discussion; wrap up and adjourn.
For more information, please visit the committee's website at http://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/ANALYTICS/Pages/Metrics-Technical-Advisory-Group.aspx.
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Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:
- Sign language and spoken language interpreters
- Written materials in other languages
- Braille
- Large print
- Audio and other formats
If you need help or have questions, please contact Jon McElfresh at 503-385-3075, 711 TTY, esh@dhsoha.state.or.us">jonathan.p.mcelfresh@dhsoha.state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting.