Join MOVHD in Celebrating Public Health Week: Insights, Events, and Community Wellness

April 7-11 marks National Public Health Week, a chance to spotlight the essential role local health departments play in community wellness. The Mid-Ohio Valley Health Department serves six counties: Calhoun, Pleasants, Ritchie, Roane, Wirt, and Wood, with a dedicated team of professionals, including nurses, sanitarians, and WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) staff, ready to assist residents.

Sanitarians ensure that restaurants and food vendors meet healthy food standards through inspections and classes. They also oversee public pools, campgrounds, and facilities like tattoo parlors, ensuring safety and compliance.

WIC provides vital support to families, focusing on healthy nutrition. This program offers resources to pregnant women and parents of young children, including breastfeeding education and health screenings. In fact, a recent survey found that families participating in WIC are more likely to have healthy diets for their children compared to non-participants.

Community Health workers assess broader health needs within the community. They collaborate with the local American Red Cross, training volunteers to tackle public health emergencies like pandemics or bioterrorism.

The department also focuses on vaccination access. Vaccines are available for diseases such as measles, flu, and COVID-19, especially during peak seasons. With the addition of a nurse practitioner, services have expanded. Now, residents can get well-child exams, screenings for vision and hearing, and other essential health services, including women’s health care.

Oral health screenings are part of the offering, ensuring that both adults and children receive checks for tooth decay. These services highlight the comprehensive approach the department takes in maintaining public health.

For those looking for more information, the main office is located at 1824 Murdoch Ave. in Parkersburg and operates from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can reach them at 304-485-7374 or explore more on their website at movhd.com.

Public health remains a hot topic, especially as communities adapt to ongoing health challenges. Experts emphasize that proactive public health measures are vital in preventing future crises. Engaging with local health services can make a significant difference in individual and community health outcomes, fostering a healthier future for everyone.

Bethany Peters, an intake clerk at the Mid-Ohio Valley Health Department, checks registrations. (Photo by Jess Mancini)

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