The Albany County Department of Health strives to protect and promote the health of individuals, families, communities and our environment. We work with many other community partners to offer a variety of programs and services to achieve our mission:

• Prevent communicable and chronic diseases, injuries, and disabilities;
• Protect against environmental hazards that threaten health and safety; and
• Promote the health and development of infants and children and the wellness of our citizens and our communities.

The Albany County Department of Health continues to receive reports indicating that H1N1 pandemic influenza is widespread in New York State, and in the Capital Region. As noted in our last update, testing for H1N1 influenza is only being done in limited circumstances, so the small number of "confirmed cases" is not reflective of actual disease activity in our community. Thus far, H1N1 is causing illness similar to seasonal influenza; most cases have been mild but it can be serious, especially in individuals with underlying medical conditions (see high risk groups on this website).

There are currently almost 100,000 patients waiting for a life-saving organ transplant in the United States. Hundreds of thousands of people will need a tissue transplant this year. You have the power to help save and enhance lives. New Yorkers can document their decision to become an organ and tissue donor by enrolling in the New York State Donate Life Registry.

Lead Poisoning is a danger for every baby and child. If you are pregnant, protect yourself and your baby from lead poisoning.

     The Albany County Health Department has issued an advisory for residents to be aware that bats may carry rabies and to capture any bats that come in contact with humans or pets for rabies testing.

The Albany County Health Department announced the Latham Water District as the winner of the 2009 Albany County Drinking Water Taste Test, which was conducted at the Harold L. Joyce Albany County Office Building at 112 State Street on June 26th.

The County Department of Health has announced an initiative to make eating out healthier in Albany County. The use of artificial trans fats in local restaurants and other food service establishments in Albany County will be eliminated in 2009.