#NorthwestHealthDistrict

August 8, 2026

Northwest Georgia Public Health Urges Heat Safety, Fall Vaccination Preparation

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With the dog days of August bringing continued heat to Northwest Georgia, public health officials are reminding residents to take precautions outdoors while also beginning to prepare for the upcoming fall respiratory illness season.

Dr. Gary Voccio, Health Director for the Georgia Department of Public Health’s Northwest Health District, recommends scheduling outdoor activities during the early morning or late evening whenever possible rather than during the hottest part of the day.

Residents are also encouraged to drink plenty of water, wear light-colored and loose-fitting clothing, and avoid heavy foods during periods of high heat.

At the same time, health officials are looking ahead to fall and flu season. Voccio says this is a good time to consider vaccinations against influenza and other respiratory illnesses, particularly for older adults and young children.

With a new school year getting underway, parents are also encouraged to make sure their children are up to date on recommended vaccinations.

Additional information about immunizations and vaccinations is available through the Northwest Health District.

July 11, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

West Nile Virus concerns have public health officials reminding about mosquito-bite prevention

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Public health officials are urging Northwest Georgia residents to take precautions against mosquito bites as the 2026 West Nile virus season gets underway earlier and more aggressively than it has in more than two decades.

January 25, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Northwest Health District, County Health Departments to Close Monday Ahead of Hazardous Weather

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The Georgia Department of Public Health’s Northwest Health District office in Rome and health departments across 11 Northwest Georgia counties will be closed Monday, January 26, due to anticipated hazardous weather.

Counties included in the closure are Bartow, Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, Floyd, Gordon, Haralson, Paulding, Polk, and Walker. Residents needing services are encouraged to plan ahead and monitor official updates for reopening information once conditions improve.