There seems to be a common thread of continuity running through this edition which focuses on various health-related issues.

National Influenza Vaccination Week runs from November 27 to December 3 this year, and Gila County is offering influenza and pediatric flu vaccines in both the Payson and Globe offices. Immunizations are offered Monday through Friday and more information is provided in the Community Updates section, which begins on page 4.

MRSA, a drug-resistant staph infection has become a focus of concern over the last several weeks. We have included some guidelines from the Arizona Department of Health Services on staph and MRSA infections, how they are spread and how to avoid them. website.A flyer with information for parents and students is included across from the article on page 9.

Another health-related topic making recent headlines is Valley Fever. Most who have lived in Arizona for any length of time have at least heard of this lung infection caused by inhaling fungal spores found in desert soil. We have included several frequently asked questions (FAQs) obtained from Valley Fever Center for Excellence More information on this infection can be found, beginning on page 6.

While many Arizonans are aware that overexposure to the sun can lead to melanoma, colorectal cancer has become the second deadliest form of cancer with 2,400 Arizonans diagnosed with it each year. According to Susan Gerard, state Health Department Director, "only 25 percent of colorectal cancer in Arizona is detected in its earliest, highly curable, stage. That's why we're promoting screening and education."

On that note, we wish everyone a safe, happy and healthy holiday season! Until next issue . . . take care.   back...