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.

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 H1N1 vaccination clinics scheduled for November 22nd at the Times Union Center and for November 24th at Berne Knox Westerlo Elementary School are closed, as all appointments have been filled.

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.