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Health News

How to Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Seasonal Pollen Allergy Update – April 2010

As you’ve heard, or experienced, the allergy season in the Massillon area is BAD this spring! An allergy is a heightened sensitivity to a foreign substance (an allergen) that causes the body’s defense system (the immune system) to overreact when defending itself. The reaction can be mild to severe. Pollen allergies can cause sneezing, watery eyes, and cold-like symptoms (but with a clear discharge). Allergies can aggravate asthma, too.

Due to the warm temperatures early this spring, trees are pollinating in abundance. According to Canton Health Department Division of Air Quality, tree pollen counts are as much as seven times higher this year than last year in this area. High winds, too, spread pollen. Grass and weed allergies rise in the summer months. Rainy days help clean the air somewhat, keeping pollen counts lower.

For those affected by allergies, during high pollen days: limit outdoor activity; stay indoors; close windows and turn on heat or air conditioning for air circulation. A home air purifier is a good idea, too. Two websites you can check for information are: www.pollen.com and www.cantonhealth.org, Environmental, Air Quality.

Smoke Free Ohio

The Smoke-Free Workplace Law took effect on December 7, 2006. Violation of the law could result in a warning for a first time violation, and a $100 to $2500 fine for subsequent violations. Both the smoker and the business can be fined, but the business operator has the ultimate responsibility for compliance.

Exemptions to the Smoke-Free regulations include private residences, 20% of motel rooms, tobacco stores, and private clubs that are non-profit and have no paid employees.

If you have any questions, you may call the Health Department at 330-830-1712. A copy of the law can be viewed on-line at www.smokefreeohio.com.