Weekly Update - November 6, 2021

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Weekly Update - November 6, 2021 Dear Community Partner, As the chief public health strategist for the Greater Nashua Public Health Region (GNPHR), the Nashua Division of Public Health and Community Services (DPHCS) prepares weekly updates to inform our community on matters related to the health and safety of our community. The Greater Nashua Public Health Region (GNHPR) includes the towns and cities of Amherst, Brookline, Hollis, Hudson, Litchfield, Lyndeborough, Mason, Merrimack, Milford, Mont Vernon, Nashua, Pelham, and Wilton. COVID-19 Data Update Community level transmission is determined by two metrics established in conjunction with the State of New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). When the number of new cases per 100k over 14 days is less than 50 OR the percent positivity rate is below 5%, a community is designated as "GREEN" or minimal. When cases exceed 50 per 100k OR the percent positivity rate is between 5% to 10%, a community is designated as "YELLOW" or moderate. When a community exceeds the highest threshold (>100 cases per 100k OR >10% positivity rate), a community is designated as "RED" or s ubstantial. Currently, the city of Nashua is experiencing SUBSTANTIAL community level transmission. Definitions Active Case A case that is currently sick or in isolation due to COVID-19. New Infections per 100k Number of new cases within 14 days standardized by population size to compare across groups. This shows how quickly disease is occurring in the community or the incidence of disease. 7-Day Total Test Positivity Rate Number of PCR and Antigen tests that are positive compared to the number of PCR and Antigen tests that are negative over the past 7 days. A rising positivity rate indicates a rising number of infections in the community. Fully Vaccinated Percent of residents fully vaccinated. Full vaccination occurs 2 weeks after the second dose in a 2-

Transcript of Weekly Update - November 6, 2021

Page 1: Weekly Update - November 6, 2021

Weekly Update - November 6, 2021

Dear Community Partner,

As the chief public health strategist for the Greater Nashua Public Health Region (GNPHR), the Nashua Divisionof Public Health and Community Services (DPHCS) prepares weekly updates to inform our community onmatters related to the health and safety of our community. The Greater Nashua Public Health Region (GNHPR)includes the towns and cities of Amherst, Brookline, Hollis, Hudson, Litchfield, Lyndeborough, Mason,Merrimack, Milford, Mont Vernon, Nashua, Pelham, and Wilton.

COVID-19 Data Update

Community level transmission is determined by two metrics established in conjunction with the State ofNew Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the Centers for Disease Controland Prevention (CDC). When the number of new cases per 100k over 14 days is less than 50 OR thepercent positivity rate is below 5%, a community is designated as "GREEN" or minimal. When casesexceed 50 per 100k OR the percent positivity rate is between 5% to 10%, a community is designated as"YELLOW" or moderate. When a community exceeds the highest threshold (>100 cases per 100k OR>10% positivity rate), a community is designated as "RED" or substantial.

Currently, the city of Nashua is experiencing SUBSTANTIAL community level transmission.

Definitions

Active CaseA case that is currently sick or inisolation due to COVID-19.

New Infections per 100kNumber of new cases within 14 daysstandardized by population size tocompare across groups. This showshow quickly disease is occurring inthe community or the incidence ofdisease.

7-Day Total Test Positivity RateNumber of PCR and Antigen teststhat are positive compared to thenumber of PCR and Antigen teststhat are negative over the past 7days. A rising positivity rate indicatesa rising number of infections in thecommunity.

Fully VaccinatedPercent of residents fullyvaccinated. Full vaccination occurs 2weeks after the second dose in a 2-

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dose series or 2 weeks after a single-dose vaccine.

Children 5+ Now Eligible for a Free COVID-19 Vaccine

Great news! On October 29, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized use of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine in children 5-11 years of age. On Tuesday, November 2, the CDC acceptedthe Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices’ (ACIP) recommendation that children ages 5–11 bevaccinated against COVID-19.

The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is authorized for children and adolescents age 5 and up as a 2-dose series,taken 3 weeks apart. The dose for children age 5-11 is one-third of the dosage of the vaccine for olderadolescents and adults.

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Common Questions

Q: Does COVID-19 affect children?A: "COVID-19 cases in children can result in hospitalizations, deaths, MIS-C (inflammatory syndromes),and long-term complications, such as 'long COVID,' in which symptoms can linger for months. During a6-week period in late June to mid-August, COVID-19 hospitalizations among children and adolescentsincreased fivefold." - CDC

Q: Is the COVD-19 vaccine safe for children?A: The vaccine is safe and effective. Vaccination, along with other preventative measures, is the bestway to protect our children from COVID-19. Before being authorized for children, scientists andmedical experts completed their review of safety and effectiveness data from clinical trials ofthousands of children. The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine was rigorously tested and reviewed, and more than11 million adolescents ages 12-17 have already received the COVID-19 vaccine. "Similar to what wasseen in adult vaccine trials, vaccination was nearly 91% effective in preventing COVID-19 amongchildren aged 5-11 years." (CDC).

Q: Will my child experience any side effects from the COVID-19 vaccine?A: "In clinical trials, vaccine side effects were mild, self-limiting, and similar to those seen in adults andwith other vaccines recommended for children. The most common side effect was a sore arm." - CDC

Q: Where can my child get vaccinated?A: Children in New Hampshire can get vaccinated at localpharmacies - view the full list here. The Nashua DPHCS is alsohosting a COVID-19 vaccine clinic for children and teens inGreater Nashua on Saturday, November 20, from 9am to 4pm atthe Elm Street Middle School Cafeteria in Nashua - register yourchild for an appointment here.

Download and share our clinic flyer!EnglishSpanishPortugueseSwahiliFrenchKinyarwanda

ResourcesCDC Press Release: CDC Recommends Pediatric COVID-19 Vaccine for Children 5 to 11 YearsNH HAN: Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine for Children 5-11 Years OldJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Key Insights on Child Vaccinations

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Are you unable to get condoms?Due to COVID-19, the NH HIV Planning Group is offering up to25 free condoms that can be delivered to people living in NH.

To order condoms, click here.

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month

Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. It is responsible for the most cancerdeaths in both men and women throughout the world, as well as the United States and NewHampshire. Cigarette smoking causes most lung cancers. The more cigarettes you smoke per day andthe earlier you started smoking, the greater your risk of lung cancer. High levels of pollution, radiation,and asbestos exposure may also increase risk. View this interactive map for more details.

What is lung cancer?Lung cancers are cancers that begin in the lungs. The two main types of lung cancer are small cell lungcancer and non-small cell lung cancer. Non-small cell lung cancer is more common than small cell lungcancer and usually grows and spreads slowly. Small cell lung cancer is less common, grows morequickly, and is more likely to spread to other organs in the body than non-small cell lung cancer.

Who is at risk?Some of the things that put you at risk for lung cancer include:

Smoking or a history of smoking (cigarettes, cigars, or pipes)Long-term exposure to carcinogens (things that may cause cancer), such as radon, asbestos,arsenic, and chromiumBeing exposed to second-hand smoke at home or at workA family history of lung cancerA history of chronic lung disease

QuitNow NH can help individuals quit tobacco. Trained counselors are free for anyone in NewHampshire. Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW. To learn more about ways to lower your risk, visit the CDC.

What are the signs and symptoms?Different people have different symptoms, and some people don't have any symptoms at all. Lungcancer symptoms may include shortness of breath, coughing that does not go away, wheezing,coughing up blood, chest pain, fever, and weight loss.

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How is lung cancer diagnosed?To find out if lung cancer is present, a doctor will look at your medical history, smoking history,exposure to substances at home, and family history of cancer. The doctor will also do a physical examand may order a chest x-ray or other tests.

How is lung cancer treated?Treatment depends on the type of lung cancer and how far it has spread. Treatments include surgery,chemotherapy, and radiation.

- Breathe NH, 2020

Meet our NEW Public Health Emergency Preparedness Coordinator: Pat Henry!

"Hello! My name is Pat Henry and I am the new Public HealthEmergency Preparedness Coordinator for the City of Nashua Divisionof Public Health and Community Services. I am excited to join theteam. In my role as the PHEP Coordinator, I will be makingconnections and maintaining partnerships with the different townentities and stakeholders within the Greater Nashua Region. My goalis to ensure that we will always be prepared whenever a public healthemergency strikes, like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prior to this position, I was the Pandemic Response PublicInformation Specialist for the City of Peabody in Massachusetts. I amcompleting my Masters of Public Health degree from MCPHSUniversity in Boston and working on my Certification in Public Health(CPH).

On a more personal note, I love to be outdoors. Whether I am hiking, camping, fishing, or kayaking, Ilove to smell the fresh air and enjoy the outdoors. I am also a little bit of a history nerd, trying to enjoyhistorical novels whenever I have some free time. I enjoy cooking for myself and my partner, alwayswilling to try new recipes and cooking methods. I look forward to serving the City of Nashua as well asthe Greater Nashua Public Health Region!"

To contact Pat, please email [email protected] or call 603-589-4569.

Welcome Patrick, we are excited to have you join us!

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EQUITY CORNERA Faith-Based Discussion about NH's Recent Right to Freedom fromDiscrimination Statute

On December 2, 2021, at 7:00 pm, the NH Interfaith Collaborative will resume our Faith-BasedConversations by meeting with Ahni Malachi, Executive Director at NH Commission for Human Rights,to learn about HB2 Section 354, the Right to Freedom from Discrimination in Public Workplaces andEducation and how claims may be addressed under the statute, AND discuss what our faith traditionssay about what should and should not be taught in school and how the law compares with the statute.This is an interactive workshop with breakout chat groups. It will take place via Zoom.

Leading the workshop will be:Susan S. Gabert, Ed.D., Assistant Dean of Students/Director, Campus Ministry, St. Anselm'sCollege (Moderator)James T. McKim, Jr., President of the Manchester Branch of the N.A.A.C.P, Chair of the EpiscopalChurch’s Executive Council Committee on Anti-Racism & Reconciliation, and Managing Partnerof Organizational Ignition (Panelist)Anhi Malachi, Executive Director of the NH Commission on Human Rights, and Chair of theGovernor’s Council on Diversity and Inclusion (Panelist)

REGISTER HERE: https://tinyurl.com/33rduwme.

2022 Health Insurance Marketplace Open Enrollment ends January 15

Did you know? You can enroll in or change 2022 Marketplace Health Insurance right now! The 2022Open Enrollment Period runs from Monday, November 1, 2021 through Saturday, January 15, 2022.

If you don’t act by January 15, 2022, you can’t get 2022 coverage unless you qualify for a SpecialEnrollment Period. Enroll by December 15, 2021 for coverage that starts January 1, 2022. You canpreview 2022 plans and prices now and complete your enrollment.

Visit healthcare.gov to get started.

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Salvation Army 2021 Christmas Registration Sign Up

The Salvation Army is offering Christmas assistance sign ups for familieswho qualify under the income guidelines.

Where: The Salvation Army 1 Montgomery AvenueNashua, New Hampshire 03060 (603-889-5151)

When: MUST REGISTER FOR APPOINTMENT HEREWednesdays and Thursdays: October 13 - November 18Spanish Translation ONLY - Tuesdays: October 12 - November 16NO applications will be taken after November 18th

Who: You may not apply if you are receiving holiday assistance from any other organization.Family of 2 – Income under $32,227Family of 3 – Income under $40,626Family of 4 – Income under $49,025Family of 5 – Income under $57,424Family of 6 – Income under $65,823Family of 7 – Income under $74,222

You will need to bring the following information to register:Applicant’s (Parent/Guardian) IdentificationApplicant’s (Parent/Guardian) ResidenceChildren’s Identification (Birth to 12th Grade)Children’s Residence or Proof of Primary Custody IN Applicants ResidenceHousehold Income

Please note that all things listed are wishes. The Salvation Army will do their best to grant the child’swish but they CAN NOT promise items, as they depend on donations from the community.

Greater Nashua Winter Food Resource Guides

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DIRECTOR'S BOOK CORNEREach week, Director Bobbie D. Bagley will provide a bookrecommendation!

This weeks book recommendation is...

Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseveranceby Angela Duckworth

Angela Duckworth shows anyone striving to succeed that the secret tooutstanding achievement is not talent, but a special blend of passion andpersistence she calls “grit.”

Director Bagley recommends Grit for all of those who are working onfurthering their education or self development or even helping their childrensucceed, this book is a great read to inspire you to continue in your passionand nurture the passion of others. The author developed the Grit Scale that can be used to measureyour perseverance and drive to achieve. I have been an over achiever all of my life and found this bookand examples encouraging and reaffirming. As a life long learner having grit gives me 'stick-to-it-ness' tokeep me going!

Order the book here and let us know what you think!

Public Health Resources

Workforce Development

NHADACA 2021 Annual Meeting -November 19, 9am - 3pmLearn More & Register Here

2021 Preparedness Summit: Reimagining

Upcoming Events

COVID-19 Testing Locations

COVID-19 Vaccine Locations

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Preparedness in the Era of COVID-19Learn More Here

Job Opportunity: Driver/Health Educatorfor SJH Mobile Health ClinicApply Here

Job Opportunity: Disease InterventionSpecialist/Behavioral Health PublicHealth NurseApply Here

Job Opportunity: Part-Time Public HealthNurseApply Here

Additional Resources

Nashua COVID-19 Website

Regional DataDashboard

NH Housing Assistance

Regional Food Resources

Statewide Resources

*At this time, we are not offering child lead testingdue to the expansion of the recall for LeadCareBlood Lead Tests. Please call with any questions.

SSANANovember 8 / 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.(Between Temple St. and Cottage St., Nashua)

COVID-19 Vaccine for Kids Q&A (FB Live)Hosted by St. Joseph HospitalJoin Here

ImmunizationsNovember 9 / 4 - 7 p.m.Nashua Public Health (18 Mulberry St., Nashua)By Appointment: Call 603-589-4500, Option 2

Immunizations, STD/HIV/HCV TestingNovember 10 / 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.Nashua Public Health (18 Mulberry St., Nashua)By Appointment: Call 603-589-4500, Option 2

SSANANovember 10 / 2 - 4 p.m.(29 Temple St., Nashua)

STD/HIV/HCV TestingNovember 11 / 3 - 6 p.m.Nashua Public Health (18 Mulberry St., Nashua)By Appointment: Call 603-589-4500, Option 2

ImmunizationsNovember 12 / 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.Nashua Public Health (18 Mulberry St., Nashua)By Appointment: Call 603-589-4500, Option 2

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The New Hampshire Public Health Association(NHPHA) supports science-based public health policyand has a goal of informing citizenry of changesneeded in the laws and government in order toimprove public health. Subscribe to the ”Health in AllPolicies” E-News on their website.

NHResponds is the system used pre-registervolunteers who are interested in responding in anemergency. Whether you are a healthcare provider,administrative specialist, a retired professional, orready to help in your community, New Hampshireneeds you. Check it out!

City of Nashua Division of Public Health and Community ServicesGreater Nashua Public Health Network(603) 589-4500www.nashuanh.gov/DPHCS

STAY CONNECTED!