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The Florida Department of Health works to protect, promote & improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, & community efforts.
Press Releases
November 13, 2019
Flu Season Beginning To Pick Up
A large increase in influenza (flu) activity in schools has been reported to the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (DOH-Hillsborough). Those who haven’t received the flu vaccine for this flu season should get it now. Flu activity typically peaks between December and February, and it can last as late as May
November 04, 2019
Diabetes Prevention Program Being Offered
Hillsborough County, Fla. – A diabetes prevention program to help those who would like to reduce the chance of developing Type 2 diabetes is being offered. The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (DOH-Hillsborough) is offering the National Diabetes Prevention program at no-cost to help combat the growing health threat of obesity. Trained lifestyle coaches guide participants to form healthy habits and achieve weight loss.
October 24, 2019
Health Advisory Lifted - Davis Island Beach
Hillsborough County, Fla. – The health advisory that was issued for Davis Island Beach has been lifted. Follow-up testing was satisfactory, based on the marine water bacterial indicator results.
October 18, 2019
Health Advisory - Davis Island Beach
Hillsborough County, Fla. – A Health Advisory has been issued for Davis Island Beach based on the criteria for enterococci bacteria recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
October 17, 2019
Rabid Raccoon Found In Riverview Area
A raccoon in the area of Frost Aster Drive in Riverview is the first confirmed case of rabies for 2019 in Hillsborough County. No rabies alert has been issued. An alert is not being issued since this is a single case found in wildlife. However, this incident serves as a reminder to ensure pets are up-to-date on rabies vaccination. It should be expected that there is always some level of the virus in our wildlife population.
September 23, 2019
Fall Means It's Time For A Flu Vaccine
The arrival of fall means it’s time to think about flu season and your annual vaccine for protection against a virus that can mean lost days of work and school later.
September 06, 2019 11:20:00
Health Advisory for Picnic Island Beach Lifted
Hillsborough County, Fla. – The health advisory that was issued for Picnic Island Beach has been lifted. Follow-up testing was satisfactory, based on the marine water bacterial indicator results. The initial sampling was performed August 28, and follow-up sampling was performed on September 4.
September 06, 2019
Health Advisory for Picnic Island Beach Lifted
Hillsborough County, Florida – The advisory that was issued for Picnic Island Beach has been lifted. Follow-up testing was satisfactory, based on the marine water bacterial indicator results.
September 04, 2019
Tampa Family Health Centers Terminate Title X Services
Tampa, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County has been notified that as of September 30, 2019, Tampa Family Health Centers will no longer offer Title X services to its patients. Following the notification, DOH-Hillsborough has been working on a plan to reduce the impact to the approximately 2,700 patients who will be displaced.
While it appears that the Tampa Bay area will not experience the worst that Hurricane Dorian has to bring, it is still an important time to remind Tampa Bay area residents that we are just entering the busiest period of the hurricane season. On average, more than 40% of all Atlantic tropical storms and hurricanes form during the month of September, and Florida is the state most vulnerable to storm impacts. If you have not yet made preparations for the potential impact of a storm, now is an outstanding time to do so, and if you did buy supplies for Hurricane Dorian, it is a wise idea to hold onto those until after the season ends on Dec. 1.
August 30, 2019
Hurricane Preparation Tips for People With Diabetes
Hillsborough County, Fla. – People with diabetes face particular challenges to their health care during hurricanes. It is important to prevent dehydration by drinking enough fluids, which can be difficult when drinking water is in short supply. It's also a good idea to wear a diabetes identification bracelet or card.
August 29, 2019
Health Advisory - Picnic Island Beach
Tampa, Florida – A Health Advisory has been issued for Picnic Island Beach based on the criteria for enterococci bacteria recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Tampa, Florida – As Hurricane Dorian approaches the area, the Florida Department of Health in Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, and Sarasota counties is urging residents to refill their prescription medication. At this time, it is not known how the hurricane will impact the region, but it’s important to make sure required prescription medication is available.
August 22, 2019
Health Advisory Lifted for Bahia and Simmons Park Beaches
The health advisory that was issued for Bahia and Simmons Park beaches has been lifted. Follow-up testing was satisfactory, based on the marine water bacterial indicator results.
A Health Advisory has been issued for Bahia and Simmons Park beaches based on the criteria for enterococci bacteria recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
August 05, 2019
Hours Extended Thursday for Back To School Immunization Services
Tampa, Florida – As parents and students get ready for a new school year, the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County is extending childhood immunization services hours on Thursday, August 8, 2019, for those who would like to beat the Back to School rush. The clinic will accept walk-ins from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Tampa, Florida – Hepatitis A continues to spread in Hillsborough County and around the state. Florida Surgeon General Dr. Scott Rivkees declared a Public Health Emergency on August 1, 2019, to address the increase in Hepatitis A cases in Florida due to the current national outbreak. The declaration builds upon the Public Health Advisory that was issued by the Florida Department of Health on November 18, 2018 and reemphasizes the importance of the Hepatitis A vaccination as the best way to prevent Hepatitis A infection.
August 01, 2019
Advisory for Picnic Island Beach Lifted
Tampa, Florida – The advisory that was issued for Picnic Island Beach has been lifted. Follow-up testing was satisfactory, based on the marine water bacterial indicator results.
July 31, 2019
A Week to Focus on Breastfeeding
Tampa, Florida – World Breastfeeding Week is August 1-7 and the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County is encouraging all breastfeeding moms, soon to be moms, families, friends, and employers to understand the importance of breastfeeding.
Tampa, Florida – The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County is offering free hepatitis A vaccine to adults on Saturday, August 3, 2019, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the University Area Health Center. The address is 13601 N. 22nd Street, Tampa FL 33613.
July 25, 2019
Health Advisory - Picnic Island Beach
Tampa, Florida – A Health Advisory has been issued for Picnic Island Beach based on the criteria for enterococci bacteria recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
More than 5,000 Hillsborough County residents completed the 2019 Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County, along with AdventHealth, BayCare, Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, Moffitt Cancer Center, Suncoast Community Health Centers, Tampa Family Health Centers, and Tampa General Hospital collaborated to be sure the voices of our county residents were heard through the CHNA survey.
When planning water-based fun be aware of microbes. The clean look of a swimming pool can be deceiving because the germs on the bodies of swimmers and fecal material can be in the water that cannot be seen.
The advisory that was issued for Simmons Park and Cypress Point beaches has been lifted. Follow-up testing was satisfactory, based on the marine water bacterial indicator results. The initial sampling was performed July 10, and follow-up sampling was performed on July 17.
A Health Advisory has been issued for Simmons Park and Cypress Point beaches based on the criteria for enterococci bacteria recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This should be considered a potential risk to the bathing public. Samples taken Wednesday were above the threshold for enterococci bacteria. The beach will be re-sampled, Wednesday, July 17, 2019.
July 03, 2019
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT NECROTIZING FASCIITIS; Commonly called “flesh-eating bacteria"
Information has been circulating in the news media and on social media about an individual who developed an infection after visiting a nearby beach. The Florida Department of Health takes reports like this seriously and wants you to know the risks of Necrotizing fasciitis.
Tampa, Fla. – Although there is no Cryptosporidium outbreak in Hillsborough County, the health department is monitoring and responding to suspected cases. Cryptosporidium is a microscopic parasite that causes the diarrheal disease cryptosporidiosis. Both the parasite and the disease are commonly known as “Crypto.” The latest confirmed cases are listed in Florida Charts.
National HIV Testing Day, June 27, has been observed since 1995 to raise awareness about the importance of HIV testing and early diagnosis of HIV. This year’s theme, “Doing It My Way,” highlights how and why people make testing a part of their lives.
The advisory that was issued for Bahia, BT Davis, and Cypress Point beaches has been lifted. Follow-up testing was satisfactory, based on the marine water bacterial indicator results.
A Health Advisory has been issued for Bahia, BT Davis, and Cypress Point beaches based on the criteria for enterococci bacteria recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
June 10, 2019
Drain and Cover to Protect Against Mosquitoes
The rainy season is here and the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County reminds everyone to do their part in preventing mosquito breeding and mosquito-borne illness. To protect against mosquitoes, the department urges the public to Drain and Cover to help keep families and neighbors safe. It only takes a bottle cap of water for some mosquitoes to breed and multiply.
With the increase in measles cases across the US, the Florida Department of Health in Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, and Sarasota counties are urging Floridians and visitors who have not been immunized to get vaccinated.
April 11, 2019
Health Advisory - Davis Island Beach
Tampa, Florida – A Health Advisory has been issued for Davis Island beach based on the criteria for enterococci bacteria recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
April 04, 2019
DOH-Hillsborough Identifies Case Of Hepatitis A in Food Service Worker; Encourages Vaccination
The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (DOH-Hillsborough) has identified a positive case of hepatitis A in a food service worker at Sandpiper Grille in Sun City Center. Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for anyone who ate or drank between March 20 – 24 at the restaurant, which is located at 1702 S Pebble Beach Blvd., as they may have been exposed to hepatitis A. Those who have previously received the hepatitis A vaccine do not need to take additional action.
April 01, 2019
National Public Health Week and STD Awareness Month
This week, April 1 – 7, the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County is acknowledging National Public Health Week (NPHW). NPHW presents an opportunity for communities across the United States to reflect on the contributions of public health and highlight issues that are important to improving our health.
The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County recognizes the value in measuring health outcomes and today acknowledged the 2019 County Health Rankings & Roadmaps tool released by the University of Wisconsin and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
The health advisory that was issued for Cypress Point, Davis Island and Picnic Island beaches has been lifted. Follow-up testing was satisfactory, based on the marine water bacterial indicator results.
February 28, 2019
Health Advisory Issued For Several Beaches
A Health Advisory has been issued for Cypress Point, Davis Island, and Picnic Island beaches due to high bacteria levels. This should be considered a potential risk to the bathing public and swimming is not recommended. Samples taken Wednesday were above threshold for enterococci bacteria. The beach will be re-sampled, Wednesday, March 6, 2019.
February 22, 2019
Greater Tampa Bay Area Residents Urged to Take Community Health Needs Assessment Survey
To better understand and address the health needs of communities in the Greater Tampa Bay area, the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas and Polk counties and local area hospitals are partnering on a comprehensive survey.
February 21, 2019
Advisory for Simmons Park Beach Lifted
The advisory that was issued for Simmons Park Beach has been lifted. Follow-up testing was satisfactory, based on the marine water bacterial indicator results.
February 14, 2019
Health Advisory Issued for Simmons Park Beach
A Health Advisory has been issued for Simmons Park Beach based on the criteria for enterococci bacteria recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This should be considered a potential risk to the bathing public. Samples taken Wednesday were above threshold for enterococci bacteria. The beach will be re-sampled, Wednesday, February 20, 2019.
February 13, 2019
Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County Encourages Heart-Healthy Lifestyle for American Heart Month
February marks the beginning of American Heart Month, a federally designated month that is a great way to remind Americans to focus on their hearts and commit to a healthy lifestyle. By making lifestyle changes and eliminating their risk factors, Floridians can help fight one of the deadliest diseases in the state and the nation among both men and women—heart disease.
February 08, 2019
Health Advisory Issued for Picnic Island Beach
A Health Advisory has been issued for Picnic Island beach based on the criteria for enterococci bacteria recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
February 07, 2019
Special Room Created for Nursing Mothers at Florida State Fair
The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County has partnered with the Florida State Fair to provide a cool, quiet spot for breastfeeding. The Mother’s Nook is open during fair hours in the Expo Hall and is specially designed for nursing families.
January 31, 2019
Bahia Beach - Health Advisory Issued Jan 31, 2019
A Health Advisory has been issued for Bahia beach based on the criteria for enterococci bacteria recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
January 29, 2019
Flu shots still available in Hillsborough County
Data from health care providers show the flu season in Hillsborough County isn’t over. Even though it is late in the flu season, it’s not too late to get your flu vaccine. The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County urges those who have not yet been vaccinated for the 2018-19 season to get it as soon as possible. The flu shot is the best way to prevent or reduce the severity of the flu.
January 25, 2019
Cypress Point Beach - Health Advisory Issued Jan 25, 2019
A Health Advisory has been issued for Cypress Point beach based on the criteria for enterococci bacteria recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
January 16, 2019
Flu Season in Hillsborough County
The latest influenza (flu) report for Hillsborough County shows influenza and influenza-like illness activity increasing. So far, there has been no pediatric mortalities in the current flu season in Hillsborough County.
November 30, 2018
Florida Department of Health In Hillsborough County Offering Free Flu Shots The First Week of December
Flu activity will likely increase as family and friends travel and gather for the holidays. The first week of December is National Influenza Vaccination Week and the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County is offering free flu shots December 3 – 7, at our Sulphur Springs Health Center location.Eligible children can always receive no cost vaccines through the Vaccines for Children Program. Adults 19 to 64 usually pay $32 and those older than 64 pay $60 for a high-dose vaccine. Those who want the flu vaccine for free are encouraged to get it while there is no charge. Supplies are limited.
November 29, 2018
World AIDS Day - Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County Offering Free HIV, STD Screening; Flu and Hep A Shots Saturday
World AIDS Day is this Saturday, December 1, and between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m., the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County will offer free HIV and STD testing. Free flu and hepatitis A shots will also be offered.
November 05, 2018
More Than 600 Receive Hep A Vaccine Following Hamburger Mary’s Incident
The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (DOH-Hillsborough) administered 620 hepatitis A vaccines following the Hamburger Mary’s Ybor City incident. The vaccine was free for those who ate or drank between October 4 – 20, at the Hamburger Mary’s Ybor City. Additionally, the 24-hour hotline received more than 400 calls. So far, there have been no Hepatitis A cases linked to the Hamburger Mary’s incident. The vaccine was offered by DOH-Hillsborough to prevent those who may have been exposed to hepatitis A from getting sick. However, to prevent illness, the vaccine must be administered within two weeks of exposure. That time has now expired for those impacted by the Hamburger Mary’s Ybor City incident. Anyone who develops hepatitis A symptoms should visit a healthcare provider immediately. DOH-Hillsborough continues to encourage all healthcare providers, including hospital emergency departments to stay on high alert and immediately report cases to the Florida Department of Health.
This Friday, November 2, the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (DOH-Hillsborough) will discontinue offering the free hepatitis A vaccine to those who ate or drank between October 4 – 20, at the Hamburger Mary’s Ybor City.
October 25, 2018
DOH-Hillsborough Identifies Case Of Hepatitis A in Food Service Worker; Encourages Vaccination
The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (DOH-Hillsborough) has identified a positive case of hepatitis A in a food service worker in Ybor City. Following lab confirmation on Monday, October 22, DOH-Hillsborough immediately began conducting an epidemiological investigation and today determined the individual worked at Hamburger Mary’s Bar and Grille located at 1800 East 8th Avenue in Tampa between October 4 – 20.
October 25, 2018
Health Advisory LIFTED - Ben T. Davis and Davis Island Beaches
Tampa, Florida – The advisory that was issued October 18, for Ben T. Davis and Davis Island beaches has been lifted. Follow-up testing was satisfactory based on the marine water bacterial indicator results as recommended by the EPA.
October 18, 2018
Health Advisory - Ben T Davis and Davis Island Beaches
Tampa, Florida – A Health Advisory has been issued for Ben T Davis and Davis Island beaches based on the criteria for enterococci bacteria recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Tampa, Florida – A Health Advisory has been issued for Ben T Davis, Cypress Point, and Picnic Island beaches based on the criteria for enterococci bacteria recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
September 17, 2018
Infant Mortality Awareness in Hillsborough County
Tampa, Florida – September is Infant Mortality Awareness Month and the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (FDOH-Hillsborough) wants to highlight facts you may not know. Black infants in Hillsborough County are more than three times more likely to die during their first year of life, when compared to white infants.
September 12, 2018
Free Diabetes Prevention Program Starts Soon
A diabetes prevention program to help those who would like to reduce the chance of developing Type 2 diabetes is being offered. Many places charge for this program, but the Florida Department of Health (DOH) in Hillsborough County is offering the National Diabetes Prevention program for free to help combat the growing health threat of obesity.
September 07, 2018
Health Advisory - Ben T Davis Beach
Tampa, Florida – A Health Advisory has been issued for Ben T Davis beach based on the criteria for enterococci bacteria recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
August 31, 2018
Health Advisory - Cypress Point Beach
Tampa, Florida – A Health Advisory has been issued for Cypress Point beach based on the criteria for enterococci bacteria recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
August 28, 2018
Rabid Cat Attacks Man in Gibsonton
A rabies alert has been issued by the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (DOH-Hillsborough), following confirmation that a brown and black tabby, domestic shorthair cat was rabid. The cat attacked a man near Nundy Avenue in Gibsonton (zip code: 33534).
August 24, 2018
Several Exposed to Rabid Stray Cat on Knollwood Street
A rabies alert has been issued by the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (FDOH-Hillsborough), following confirmation that a stray cat was rabid. The cat was located near the 4500 block of W Knollwood Street in Tampa (33614).
Tampa, Florida – The advisory that was issued for Ben T Davis, Picnic Island and Simmonds Park Beaches has been lifted. Follow-up testing was satisfactory based on the marine water bacterial indicator results as recommended by the EPA.
August 15, 2018
Beat the Back to School Germs
Tampa, Fla. – Most schools in Hillsborough County are back in session and that means students, parents, teachers, and many others are going to be exposed to more germs. As everyone is adjusting to the new schedule, getting sick may cause unnecessary hardships and may be avoided by proper handwashing.
Tampa, Florida – A Health Advisory has been issued for Ben T Davis, Picnic Island and Simmonds Park beaches based on the criteria for enterococci bacteria recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
August 01, 2018
Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County Applauds School District's Lead Testing Efforts
Tampa, Fla. – Students, faculty, and visitors to Hillsborough County Public Schools are safer, thanks to a voluntary effort to test water in all schools for lead. Since last year, the school district carried out tests at approximately 1,800 faucets, drinking fountains, and fixtures where water is likely to be used for drinking or cooking in more than 50 schools and district sites.
July 31, 2018
Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County Celebrates World Breastfeeding Week
Tampa, Fla. – World Breastfeeding Week is August 1 – 7 and the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (DOH-Hillsborough), would like to encourage and help new mothers with breastfeeding. Breast milk alone is sufficient to support optimal growth and development for approximately the first 6 months after birth.
Tampa, Florida – The advisory that was issued for Cypress Point and Davis Island beaches has been lifted. Follow-up testing was satisfactory based on the marine water bacterial indicator results as recommended by the EPA.
Tampa, Florida – Healthy Hillsborough Collaborative has awarded the Agency for Community Treatment Services (ACTS) with a $100,000 grant to focus on improving behavioral health. The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County, BayCare Health System and Tampa General Hospital shared the cost for the grant.
July 26, 2018
Health Advisory - Davis Island & Picnic Island Beaches
Tampa, Florida – A Health Advisory has been issued for Davis Island and Picnic Island beaches based on the criteria for enterococci bacteria recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
July 16, 2018
Back 2 School Health Fairs in Hillsborough County
A cat that lived around North Dort Street and Rowena Mays Park in the Plant City area of Hillsborough County tested positive for rabies. Preliminary investigations revealed a white and brown tabby domestic shorthair cat exposed at least one male adult. Additionally, two domestic dogs were exposed. The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (DOH-Hillsborough) is attempting to locate anyone who may have been exposed.
A neighborhood cat that lived around E. Bay Road in the Gibsonton area of Hillsborough County tested positive for rabies. Preliminary investigations revealed the grey tabby domestic shorthair cat exposed at least one adult, one child and one domestic dog.
June 04, 2018
Flood Waters Pose Health Risks
A Health Advisory has been issued for Cypress Point and Davis Island beaches based on the criteria for enterococci bacteria recommended by the EPA.
June 04, 2018
Hillsborough County Saltwater Beach Monitoring Results
A Health Advisory has been issued for Cypress Point and Davis Island beaches based on the criteria for enterococci bacteria recommended by the EPA.
Time is running out to register for a free diabetes prevention program. The program is to help those who would like to reduce the chance of developing Type 2 diabetes.
May 14, 2018
Free Diabetes Prevention Program Starts Soon
Those who complete the program can prevent or delay Type 2 diabetes by losing five to seven percent of their weight. Groups meet for 26 sessions and work with a Trained Lifestyle Coach. Participants will get to practice skills of healthy eating and physical activity for a sustained healthy lifestyle change.
February 07, 2018
Flu Activity in Hillsborough County Remains High
The number of laboratory confirmed influenza cases reported by Hillsborough County medical providers remains high. Hillsborough County has reported 30 outbreaks during the current influenza season. Nine outbreaks of influenza were reported in child care facilities/school and two in long-term care facilities (LTCF).
January 26, 2018
Flu Remains High and Continues to Increase
Flu activity in Hillsborough County is high and continues to increase. Those who haven’t received a flu shot are encouraged to get one now. “There is no shortage in flu vaccines,” said Senior Human Services Program Manager Jylmarie Lewis. “We have a lot and there are many other places people can go to get a flu shot.”
January 26, 2018
Reduce Diabetes Risk By Participating In Free Prevention Program
A diabetes prevention program to help those who would like to reduce the chance of developing Type 2 diabetes is being offered. Many places charge for this program, but the Florida Department of Health (DOH) in Hillsborough County is offering the National Diabetes Prevention program for free to help combat the growing health threat of obesity. Trained lifestyle coaches guide participants to form healthy habits and achieve weight loss.
January 24, 2018
FDOH-Hillsborough Reminds You to Take Precautions This Flu Season
There is widespread flu activity in Hillsborough County. Influenza A (H3) is the strain of flu that is more common this season. This strain is usually associated with more severe illness in young children and adults over the age of 65.
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