Public Health News

Health Officials Report First Confirmed Measles Case in Riverside County

a.teahen — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 18:33:00 +0000

Health Officials Report First Confirmed Measles Case in Riverside County a.teahen Thu, 04/03/2025 - 11:33

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A Riverside County resident has tested positive for measles, according to health officials with Riverside University Health System — Public Health (RUHS - PH). It is the first confirmed case of measles in Riverside County since 2018.  

The adult, who has a recent history of international travel, lives in eastern Riverside County and is recovering at home. Documented measles vaccination could not be confirmed at this time.

This is the ninth confirmed measles case in the state, with the remaining eight cases found in Fresno, Los Angeles, Orange, Placer, San Mateo and Tuolumne counties, according to the California Department of Public Health. Recent international travel has been an important risk factor in the 2025 California measles cases.  

"Those who travel internationally to areas with ongoing measles transmission may be at risk for exposure. It’s important to check and make sure you are up to date on your vaccines, at least two weeks prior to international travel," said Riverside County Public Health Officer Dr. Jennifer Chevinsky.

Vaccination with one dose of MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is recommended as an early dose for infants as young as 6 months old prior to international travel to reduce the risk of contracting measles while in countries where measles is spreading.

For standard measles protection for children, one dose of MMR vaccine should be given at 12 months of age and another at 4 to 6 years.

For older children, adolescents and most adults without documented doses of MMR vaccine, two doses separated by at least 28 days should be given to provide protection. However, for adults born after 1957, one dose of live measles vaccine is sufficient to be considered protected from measles.

All adults who are going to be in a setting that poses a higher risk for measles transmission (e.g., healthcare providers, people traveling to areas with measles) should make sure they have had two doses separated by at least 28 days.

Measles is highly infectious and can be spread through the air via droplets when a person breathes, talks, coughs or sneezes.

The CDC recommends travelers monitor their health for signs and symptoms for three weeks after they return home. Those who develop symptoms, or believe they may have been exposed to measles, are urged to contact their health provider.

"As measles cases continue to occur nationwide, it's important to remain proactive to identify signs of illness, particularly when coming back from international travel, in order to promptly diagnose measles and prevent additional exposures," said Dr. Chevinsky.

Symptoms are typically observed 10 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. A prominent rash is the most visible symptom.

Measles typically begins with a fever that lasts a couple of days, followed by symptoms such as runny nose, cough, conjunctivitis (pink eye) and rash. The earliest symptoms usually last four to seven days.

The rash will usually appear first on the face, along the hairline and behind the ears. It then spreads to the rest of the body. Those infected can spread measles about four days before their rash starts to four days afterward. 

Given the risk of rapid disease spread, early identification of illness and staying home while sick is a best practice. This helps protect young children under 6 months of age who are too young to be vaccinated, pregnant women who are at risk for severe disease, as well as those who have immunocompromising conditions.

To get vaccinated, talk to your healthcare provider or visit one of Public Health’s upcoming vaccine clinics. All clinics accept walk-in appointments. Cost and eligibility vary. For questions and clinic locations, please call (951) 358-7125 or visit www.ruhealth.org/vaccineclinics

You can also check for recommended vaccines prior to travel here.

Learn more about measles here.

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Riverside County Health Officials Offer Education, Vaccination for Measles

a.teahen — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:19:46 +0000

Riverside County Health Officials Offer Education, Vaccination for Measles a.teahen Thu, 03/27/2025 - 17:19

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As measles cases have increased in the United States, and with eight confirmed cases in California since the start of the new year, health officials with Riverside University Health System — Public Health (RUHS - PH) are reminding residents about the benefits of vaccination and providing education about the signs and symptoms of the disease.

There are no suspected or confirmed cases of measles in Riverside County at this time. The last measles case in Riverside County was in 2018, and there are actions that can be taken to continue to reduce the risk of measles in our communities.

"Vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself and our community against measles," said Riverside County Public Health Officer Dr. Jennifer Chevinsky. “Roughly 90% of those unvaccinated and exposed to measles will contract the disease.” 

Measles is a serious and highly infectious disease that can be spread through the air via droplets when a person breathes, talks, coughs or sneezes.

For protection, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends two doses of MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine for:

Children: one dose at 12 months of age and another at 4-6 years.
Older children, adolescents and adults without documented doses of MMR vaccine.

Additionally, if you are an adult born after 1957, one dose of live measles vaccine is sufficient to be considered protected from measles. Certain adults may need two doses. Adults who are going to be in a setting that poses a high risk for measles transmission (e.g., healthcare providers) should make sure they have had two doses separated by at least 28 days.

Vaccination with one dose of MMR is also recommended for infants as young as 6 months old prior to international travel to reduce the risk of contracting measles while traveling to countries where measles is more common.

Symptoms of measles can include an initial fever that lasts a couple of days, followed by a cough, a runny nose and conjunctivitis (pink eye) and a prickly red rash.

"There are many different kinds of rash illnesses that can appear similar to measles, so it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure an accurate diagnosis, which often requires testing. The public health department follows up on any instances where there may be concern for measles or other transmissible diseases of concern," Dr. Chevinsky said.

Typically, a rash will initially appear on the face, along the hairline and behind the ears. It then spreads down to the rest of the body. Those with the infection can spread measles about four days before their rash starts to four days afterwards.

Symptoms typically will be observed 10–14 days after exposure to the virus. A prominent rash is often the most visible symptom. Complications of measles can include ear infections, hospitalization, pneumonia, swelling of the brain, and in some instances, death.

If you or a loved one are experiencing a rash illness, or believe you may have been exposed to measles, particularly after international travel or travel to a place with ongoing measles outbreaks, contact your healthcare provider. If you are seeking care through an emergency department or urgent care for a rash illness, it is important to call ahead so the health facility can take appropriate precautions.

Learn more about measles here.

Riverside County Health Officials Offer Education, Vaccination for Measles.pdf

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Mead Valley Wellness Village Marks Significant Construction Milestone

a.teahen — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 20:48:49 +0000

Mead Valley Wellness Village Marks Significant Construction Milestone a.teahen Thu, 02/20/2025 - 12:48

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Riverside University Health System (RUHS) joined local leaders today for a topping out ceremony to commemorate a key phase in the development of the 18-acre Wellness Village.

This milestone signals the completion of the project’s structural framework and brings Riverside County one step closer to an innovative healthcare campus that integrates behavioral health services, medical care and social support in one centralized location.

“Each beam that has been placed represents our dedication to creating a future where quality, holistic care is available right in the heart of our communities,” said Riverside County Supervisor Jose Medina, whose First District includes the project site. “With the Wellness Village, we’re ensuring that families and individuals have access to a full spectrum of healthcare services without having to leave the community.”

The topping-out ceremony, led by developer PMB that specializes in building healthcare facilities, featured the ancient practice of placing a tree on top of a new building, and symbolized the hope and promise of a new approach to health that will breathe new life into the local community.

Recognizing the critical role the Wellness Village will play in transforming local healthcare, the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) awarded more than $80 million in grants to RUHS for the construction of this pioneering campus. The Wellness Village concept has been recognized as a statewide model.

“The Wellness Village represents a new era in community healthcare,” said Dr. Matthew Chang, Behavioral Health Director for RUHS. “By combining medical, behavioral and social services under one roof, we are creating an environment that fosters growth in healing, resilience and long-term well-being.”

Set to open in early 2027, Wellness Village will feature Riverside County’s first Crisis Residential Treatment and Mental Health Urgent Care for children, offering crucial resources designed to keep local families from having to seek those services outside the area.

The campus will provide an array of behavioral health services, primary and specialty medical care, dental care, substance use disorder treatment, a public pharmacy and on-site accommodations for families while their children undergo treatment.

The state-of-the-art campus will also feature lively, community-centric amenities such as therapeutic green spaces, a public market and a café. With a total project cost of $580 million, construction and eventual operations are expected to stimulate the local economy through the creation of hundreds of permanent jobs and significant economic activity.

To learn more about the Wellness Village, visit www.ruhealth.org/wellness-village.

Mead Valley Wellness Village Marks Significant Construction Milestone.pdf

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Opening of New Franklin Residential Care Facility & Behavioral Health Clinic Expands Critical Services

a.teahen — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 23:02:14 +0000

Opening of New Franklin Residential Care Facility & Behavioral Health Clinic Expands Critical Services a.teahen Tue, 02/18/2025 - 15:02

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Local leaders and behavioral health advocates joined the Riverside University Health System – Behavioral Health (RUHS-BH) team for a ribbon-cutting event celebrating the Franklin Residential Care Facility & Behavioral Health Clinic. The 84-bed Adult Residential Facility fills a critical gap in behavioral health and recovery services for adults who need structured support.

Located at 3021 Franklin Ave. in Riverside, the newly renovated 42,000-square-foot facility will provide residential care, outpatient behavioral health services and short-term recuperative care to help individuals regain stability and transition toward independent living.

“This initiative strengthens our broader goal of creating a comprehensive range of support options,” said First District Riverside County Supervisor Jose Medina. “We want everyone in our community to have access to the help they need, when they need it.”

The Franklin Residential Care Facility will offer housing, meals, personal care assistance, medication management and supervision to individuals who require structured support without the need for 24-hour nursing care. The facility provides recuperative care services for individuals recovering from hospitalization or behavioral health crises.

An on-site outpatient behavioral health clinic will provide therapy, medication services, and case management for both residents and the surrounding community. Medical oversight, transportation to follow-up care and assistance in accessing benefits and stable housing are among additional essential services.

“This isn’t just a place for care—it’s a place for new beginnings,” said Dr. Matthew Chang, Director of RUHS Behavioral Health. “Many who come here have faced significant challenges, but Franklin offers them a fresh start. With the right support, people can heal, regain stability, and work toward a future filled with hope.”

The renovations to the Franklin facility feature welcoming areas to promote recovery, including multi-purpose rooms, and exercise and outdoor recreation space. A commercial kitchen and dining area will provide daily meals. A nurse’s station, medication room and consultation spaces ensure continuous support as residents build life skills and transition toward independent living.

The $38 million project was approved by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors, using a combination of grants and state and local mental health funding. All referrals to the facility are coordinated through RUHS-BH specialty programs, prioritizing individuals discharged from hospitals or at risk of hospitalization, adults experiencing homelessness or housing instability, and those who require residential services for serious mental illness or substance use disorders.

For more information, visit www.ruhealth.org.

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Riverside County Board of Supervisors Appoints New Health Officer

a.teahen — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 20:10:11 +0000

Riverside County Board of Supervisors Appoints New Health Officer a.teahen Wed, 02/05/2025 - 12:10

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The Riverside County Board of Supervisors appointed Dr. Jennifer R. Chevinsky as the county’s new Public Health Officer. She succeeds Dr. Geoffrey Leung, who recently announced his decision to step away from the position.

“We deeply appreciate Dr. Leung's outstanding leadership and dedicated service and are privileged to welcome Dr. Jennifer Chevinsky as our new Public Health Officer,” said Riverside County Board Chair and Fourth District Supervisor V. Manuel Perez. “Dr. Chevinsky brings an exceptional breadth of experience and knowledge in public health, making her an invaluable asset to our community. Her expertise and dedication will help us address complex challenges as we strive to promote overall health and vitality for all residents.”

Dr. Chevinsky, the county’s Deputy Public Health Officer since 2021, is board certified in Preventive Medicine, Lifestyle Medicine, and Health Care Administration, Leadership and Management. While overseeing the Division of Infectious Disease, Community Health Planning and Health Equity for Riverside University Health System – Public Health (RUHS-PH), she has been instrumental in the county’s response to COVID-19, Mpox and H5N1.

The county health officer works closely with state and federal agencies, and is responsible for developing public health policy, overseeing the enforcement of California codes and regulations, and acting as a spokesperson and trusted voice during outbreaks or emergencies to inform policies and plans that support individual and community health efforts.

Chevinsky earned her medical degree at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine and completed her residency and a master’s degree in public health at Loma Linda University (LLU). She served as an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion while also responding to infectious disease-related outbreaks. Chevinsky is also an Assistant Professor for LLU’s Department of Preventive Medicine and School of Public Health and serves on state and national public health committees.

“I am honored to serve as the Health Officer for Riverside County and look forward to continuing the important work of the department,” said Dr. Chevinsky. “Public Health is about protecting and improving the health and well-being of communities by preventing disease, promoting healthy behaviors and ensuring access to essential healthcare services.”

Dr. Leung served in the role for nearly four years after his appointment by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors in March 2021. Since then, Leung shepherded the county through the COVID pandemic and its recovery. Additionally, he spearheaded the launch of the Blue Zones initiative in Banning, Mead Valley, French Valley, Corona, Coachella and the city of Riverside to increase access to health and wellbeing for individuals who live and work in those areas. Leung also helped develop the Whole Person Health Score, an innovative assessment that allows healthcare providers to identify factors affecting a patient’s health such as social support systems and financial stress.

Dr. Leung will stay on in a consultative role through April to ensure a smooth transition, at which point he will move to a part time position within RUHS.

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Public Health Officials Offer Precautions to Protect Against Bird Flu

a.teahen — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 00:35:58 +0000

Public Health Officials Offer Precautions to Protect Against Bird Flu a.teahen Wed, 01/29/2025 - 16:35

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Riverside University Health System (RUHS) - Public Health recommends precautions to prevent Avian influenza (bird flu) infection as commercial agriculture and wildlife exposures increase.

Bird flu, or Avian influenza, is a virus that is spreading through wild birds worldwide. It is causing outbreaks in poultry and U.S. dairy cows. In Riverside County, 23 dairy and poultry farms including one backyard flock have tested positive for bird flu. At this time no human cases have been identified in the county.

Bird flu is spread from infected cows, birds and other animals to people in a variety of ways. These include:

By breathing in dust or droplets with the virus
Touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands after touching contaminated surfaces or handling sick or dead animals or their environments
Consuming raw unpasteurized milk or products

No person-to-person virus transmission has been detected in the United States. Higher-risk groups include people who work or interact with dairy cows, all types of poultry (including backyard flocks), cats or wildlife, especially wild birds.

“The overall risk to the general population is low,” said Riverside County Health Officer Dr. Geoffrey Leung. “Additional safety measures are being implemented at affected dairy and poultry farms, including ongoing monitoring for symptoms in farm workers, the use of personal protective equipment, and ensuring access to timely laboratory testing and treatment if and when needed.”

Public Health’s response to bird flu, in collaboration with the Office of the Agricultural Commissioner, Animal Services, and Environmental Health, includes enhanced biosecurity at local farms, securing personal protective equipment (PPE) and flu vaccines for farm workers, and ongoing health monitoring.

Individuals who are at risk for exposure due to contact with livestock, backyard flocks, or wildlife should follow these prevention measures:

Wash hands immediately after coming in contact with animals or their environment and avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth.
Use PPE when handling animals that could be infected with bird flu. PPE includes a fit-tested N95 respirator, eye protection, gloves, coveralls and boots or shoe covers.
Wear dedicated clothing and footwear while working with animals; shower or change into new clothes after exposure.
Work with animals outdoors or in well-ventilated indoor environments.

According to Leung, individuals should avoid drinking raw, unpasteurized milk and raw milk products, and make sure poultry and eggs are cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees. Raw dairy, raw poultry and raw pet food should not be fed to pets. There is no evidence that humans or pets can get bird flu through pasteurized dairy or properly prepared poultry and eggs cooked to the correct temperature.

Individuals who believe they may have been exposed to infected animals should monitor themselves for symptoms for 10 days after their last exposure. Symptoms include eye redness (conjunctivitis), cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, diarrhea, vomiting, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue, difficulty breathing and fever. Contact your healthcare provider if you develop symptoms, and share any exposure you may have had to sick animals. If the exposure happened at your worksite, notify your employer.

While there is no vaccine for bird flu, health experts recommend people get their seasonal flu vaccine. Seasonal flu vaccination will not prevent infection with Avian influenza viruses. However, it can reduce the risk of getting sick with human and bird flu viruses at the same time which could lead to a more severe or contagious disease.

To learn more about bird flu and how to protect yourself, visit: www.ruhealth.org/avianflu.

Poultry owners with flocks that have experienced any unusual/suspicious illness or deaths should call the California Department of Food and Agriculture’s (CDFA) Sick Bird Hotline at: 866-922-BIRD (2473).

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Air Quality and PSPS Outages - Public Health Recommendations

a.teahen — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 20:42:16 +0000

Air Quality and PSPS Outages - Public Health Recommendations a.teahen Wed, 01/15/2025 - 12:42

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Air Quality and Masking:

High risk groups include children under 18, adults over 65, people with chronic heart or lung disease, people who are pregnant and people with diabetes. Adults who are active outdoors, including outdoor workers and avid exercisers, can be considered at higher risk because of prolonged exposure. All these groups are most likely to be the first to experience the effects of ozone and particle pollution, so they need to take extra steps to protect themselves from harm.

On days when the air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups, unhealthy or hazardous:

Reduce the time you spend outdoors. Also, reduce the intensity of outdoor activity. According to the EPA, the chances of being affected by unhealthy levels of air pollution increase the longer a person is active outdoors and the more strenuous the activity.
If you must go outdoors, consider wearing a mask. Not all masks provide adequate protection against particle pollution. Cloth or dust masks, for instance, may not effectively filter out fine particles. However, well-fitted N95 or KN95 masks have better filtration capabilities and may be beneficial on days when the air quality level of concern is high.
Keep your indoor air healthy by closing doors and windows. Run air conditioning on the recirculate setting, use a portable HEPA air cleaner or, if it is difficult to maintain clean air in your entire house, consider creating a clean room such as a bedroom with an attached bathroom to avoid opening/closing the door frequently.

Insulin Management and Care during Power Outages:

Insulin management during Power Outages can be challenging, but there are ways you can work to store and protect your medications:

Keep them in a portable cooler with gel ice packs or ice to ensure that the medication stays at an appropriate temperature. If you are unsure about the temperature, see if a thermometer is available that can be used to check the temperature of the cooler.
If you anticipate the power being out for 24 hours or less, leave your insulin in the refrigerator and minimize times opening the door to keep the temperature.
Store the cooler away from windows or direct sunlight that can increase the temperature in the cooler.
If you have access to a generator or other location to store your insulin in a refrigerator, move your insulin to ensure it maintains proper temperature.
If you need assistance in replacing your insulin, reach out to your pharmacy or primary care provider to discuss options while the power remains out and for afterward.

For additional information on preparedness during emergency situations, please visit: Emergency T1D Planning - National Preparedness Month

If you need assistance with getting ice please, visit us at one of our care and reception site locations:

Norton Younglove Community Center - 459 Center St, Riverside, CA 92507
Hours: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM

 Home Gardens Library - 3785 S Neece St, Corona, CA 92879
Hours: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM

French Valley Airport - 37600 Sky Canyon Dr, Murrieta, CA 92563
Hours: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Racho Bellasante - 24351 Carancho Rd, Temecula, CA 92590
Hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM 

Idyllwild Library - 54401 Village Center Dr, Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA 92549
Hours: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM

James A Venable Community Center - 50390 Carmen Ave, Cabazon, CA 92230
Hours: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Additional Resources:

For more information about active incidents in Riverside County, how to prepare for emergencies and more, visit: www.rivcoready.org

The best way to stay informed is to sign up for notifications from Alert RivCo. To sign up, visit: www.rivcoready.org/alert-rivco

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$956,000 Awarded to Public Health Department to Support Traffic Safety Programs in Riverside County

a.teahen — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 21:52:23 +0000

$956,000 Awarded to Public Health Department to Support Traffic Safety Programs in Riverside County a.teahen Mon, 01/13/2025 - 13:52

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Riverside University Health System – Public Health (RUHS-PH) was awarded $956,000 in traffic safety grants by the California Office of Traffic Safety to support programs aimed at reducing traffic-related injuries and fatalities in Riverside County.

“We are doing more than just educating our communities; we are indirectly saving the lives of both drivers and pedestrians,” said Kim Saruwatari, Director of Public Health.

“This grant will allow us to promote safe practices and provide equitable safety solutions for Riverside County residents of all ages.”

The grants will be used for four programs that aim to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities caused by impaired or distracted driving, improperly installed car seats, and newer drivers. The programs include:

$340,000 for the Child Passenger Safety Program, which offers community outreach events, education classes and training on the installation and use of child safety seats. The program aims to reduce the number of crashes that kill or injure children under 8 years of age. Additionally, the program will offer outreach events for older drivers.
$140,000 for the College Communities Against Drunk, Drugged, and Distracted Driving (CADDD) Program, which collaborates with local colleges on prevention education and resources to reduce the number of residents killed or injured due to alcohol, drug impaired and distracted driving.
$207,000 for the Be Wiser Teen Impaired/Distracted Driving and Speeding/Occupant Safety Program, which provides education and resources in high schools and middle schools to address occupant safety, unsafe speed, impaired and distracted driving.
$269,229 for the Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Program, which promotes best practice strategies to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities involving pedestrians and bicyclists. Funded strategies may include classroom education, bicycle rodeos, community events, presentations, and workshops.

These grants are funded by the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Funding will support these programs through September 2025. To learn more about RUHS-PH injury-prevention programs, please visit www.rivcoips.org/home.

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U.S. News & World Report Names Riverside University Health System – Medical Center Among Best Hospitals for Maternity Care

a.teahen — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 02:16:37 +0000

U.S. News & World Report Names Riverside University Health System – Medical Center Among Best Hospitals for Maternity Care a.teahen Tue, 12/10/2024 - 18:16

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For the second year in a row, Riverside University Health System (RUHS) – Medical Center is ranked among the top-performing hospitals for maternity care in the nation.

The announcement released today by U.S. News & World Report shines a light on RUHS Medical Center’s commitment to providing enhanced quality care to mothers and their newborns in Riverside County. The High Performing designation for uncomplicated pregnancies is the highest award on the magazine’s 2025 Best Hospitals for Maternity Care list.

“We are very proud of the continued efforts of our skilled and dedicated staff to provide exceptional service to pregnant moms and their babies. Their extraordinary work comes from a place of love for their jobs and the patients they serve,” said Dr. Ronald Johnson, Chair of the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics at RUHS Medical Center.

RUHS Medical Center was one of 414 centers identified as Best Hospitals for Maternity Care that met high standards for each of the quality metrics in a detailed survey administered by U.S. News. Criteria includes low rates of avoidable C-sections and severe newborn complications, higher breastfeeding rates and participation in a quality collaborative to improve maternal outcomes, among other factors.

RUHS Medical Center provides comprehensive care that includes diabetes and hypertension education, a 24/7 call line for those experiencing high-risk pregnancies and robust referrals to services and additional resources. The Medical Center’s HeRCARe clinic is Riverside County’s premier maternal fetal medicine program.

RUHS boasts a 32-bed, Level III neonatal intensive care unit delivering high-tech, high-quality care to sick babies as young as 23 weeks gestation.

Additionally, RUHS Medical Center is established as a Baby-Friendly Hospital by Baby Friendly USA for its high standards for birthing and breastfeeding practices.

According to U.S. News, Best Hospitals for Maternity Care:

Had 44% lower rates of severe unexpected newborn complications than unrated hospitals
Had 22% lower C-section rates
Were 47% more likely to have achieved recognition as “Baby-Friendly” for implementing best practices to support breastfeeding – and their patients were 12% more likely to exclusively breastfeed
Were 13% more likely to track and report outcomes by race and ethnicity, an important step toward addressing disparities

To learn more about RUHS maternity care and other services, visit RUHealth.org.

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Riverside County Chief of Disease Control Honored with Prestigious Award from National Association

a.teahen — Sat, 09 Nov 2024 21:01:03 +0000

Riverside County Chief of Disease Control Honored with Prestigious Award from National Association a.teahen Sat, 11/09/2024 - 13:01

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Riverside University Health System – Public Health’s Disease Control Chief Barbara Cole was recently awarded the prestigious Sedgwick Memorial Medal for Distinguished Service in Public Health by the American Public Health Association (APHA).

The Sedgwick Memorial Medal for Distinguished Service in Public Health is the oldest and most prestigious award that APHA bestows, for which only one person in the nation is selected each year.

Cole accepted the honor for her excellence in public health leadership and innovation during a ceremony at the 2024 APHA Annual Meeting and Expo in Minneapolis, Minn., on Oct. 28.

“Barbara Cole has positively impacted millions of lives over her 40-year career through her commitment to leadership, mentorship and advocacy for disease prevention,” said Kim Saruwatari, Riverside University Health System – Public Health Director. “This award is a tremendous accolade in the profession, and Barbara is truly deserving of the honor for her exceptional service and dedication to public health.”

Cole was recognized for her holistic approach to disease control, which includes targeted treatment and helping affected families get the resources they need to financially survive long-term infections such as tuberculosis (TB).

She has played a key role in addressing emerging public health threats in Riverside County, including SARS, the H1N1 pandemic, Ebola, the COVID-19 pandemic and H5N1. Cole has also worked on TB infection control in correctional facilities and TB outbreaks on the U.S. - Mexico border as Chair of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Council for the Elimination of Tuberculosis.

Cole’s influence extends beyond Riverside County, as she has mentored the next generation of public health leaders and actively collaborated with community partners to improve health outcomes across California and the United States.

For more information about disease control in Riverside County, please visit ruhealth.org.

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Public Health News

Health Officials Report First Confirmed Measles Case in Riverside County

Riverside County Health Officials Offer Education, Vaccination for Measles

Mead Valley Wellness Village Marks Significant Construction Milestone

Opening of New Franklin Residential Care Facility & Behavioral Health Clinic Expands Critical Services

Riverside County Board of Supervisors Appoints New Health Officer

Public Health Officials Offer Precautions to Protect Against Bird Flu

Air Quality and PSPS Outages - Public Health Recommendations

$956,000 Awarded to Public Health Department to Support Traffic Safety Programs in Riverside County

U.S. News & World Report Names Riverside University Health System – Medical Center Among Best Hospitals for Maternity Care

Riverside County Chief of Disease Control Honored with Prestigious Award from National Association

Health Officials Report First Confirmed Measles Case in Riverside County