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Administration/Bioterrorism
Animal Control
Health Clinic
Environmental Services
Community Health Services
WIC
How
do I get a copy of my birth certificate?
Missouri County Health Departments have access to the database
in Jefferson City where Vital Records are housed. The City of St. Joseph Health Department offers Vital Records service from 8:00 to
4:30, Monday through Friday. Come to the second floor of Patee Market,
904 South 10th, complete an application and pay a $15 fee per copy.
The birth must have taken place since 1920, in Missouri. The application
must be submitted by the person on the certificate or a family
member.
What
do I need a birth certificate for?
A State certified record of birth is
a legal document. A birth certificate may
be required to enroll a child in school,
to get a driver’s permit or license,
to get married, to travel or get a passport,
some employers require them, as do some
insurance policies, or for other legal documentation
purposes.
Can
I get a death certificate from your office?
Death certificates are also issued through
county health department offices for deaths
which occurred in Missouri, since 1980,
of natural causes. If the death you need
a certificate for does not meet these qualifications,
you may contact the State office of vital
records, below. A certificate of death may
be needed for probate purposes, to process
insurance claims or to buy or sell a piece
of property that was wholly or partially
owned by someone who is now deceased.
How
can I pay for a birth or death certificate?
The City of St. Joseph Health Department accepts cash, personal check, money orders, debit and credit cards.
How
do I make a change to a certificate?
All changes must be processed at the
State level. County offices cannot make
any change to a certificate, even if it
appears to be a misprint or typographical
error. Information to contact the state
is below.
For birth records 573-751-6378
For death records 573-751-6385
For adding a father's name to a birth record 573-751-6216
For processing an Adoption or legitimating a birth 573-522-1715
For registration of Putative Father Registry 573-526-1537
How
do I obtain a copy of a birth certificate
from another state?
We can only process requests for Missouri births, but we’ll be happy to give you the contact information for other states or foreign births. Call our office (816-271-4636) for the phone number and address. Or you can visit the National Center for Health Statistics site on “Where to Write For Vital Records." The Internet address is http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/howto/w2w/w2welcom.htm
How
do I get a copy of my marriage certificate?
Contact the Buchanan County Recorder
of Deeds at 816-271-1437 for a copy of a
marriage certificate. Copies of marriage
certificates are available from the county
in which the marriage took place.
I live out of state and need a copy of a Missouri birth or death certificate in a hurry. What other options are there?
For expedited service, contact Vital Chek at the toll-free phone number 1-877-817-7363 twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Documents can be requested by phone and charged to a major credit card. However, there is an additional $9.95 charge for the use of this service. To further expedite the request, overnight services are offered with an additional fee. Applications can also be placed on-line at www.vitalchek.com
I’m traveling to another country.
Do I need any vaccinations?
Possibly. The Clay County Health Department
in Liberty, Missouri can assist you. Contact
them at 816-781-1601 and ask for the Oversea’s
Nurse.
What is bioterrorism?
The intentional or threatened use of viruses, bacteria, fungi
or toxins from living organisms to produce death or disease in humans,
animals or plants.
How likely
is a bioterrorism attack in our area?
The likelihood of a large- scale bioterrorist event is currently
thought to be low, given the level of technical sophistication required
to develop a weapon to disperse the biological weapon in the manner
necessary to infect massive numbers of people. However, since the
events of September 11, 2001, which too was thought to be of low probability,
the Public Health Department, together with local emergency management
agencies and state officials, is focusing its efforts on improving
the ability to respond to such an event, should it occur.
What can
be done to protect my family and myself against bioterrorism?
Prepare as you would for any emergency (i.e. flood, winter storm
or earthquake), including ensuring that you have a portable battery
powered radio, flashlight, ample supply of batteries and several days
supply of non perishable food, water, and clothes for all family members.
Develop a communication plan, to be able to contact all family members
if something happens while your family members are separated because
of school and work. For more details on what to do, to protect yourself
and family members, please visit: American Red Cross – “Terrorism:
Planning for the Unexpected” And
Ready.Gov – From the Department
of Homeland Defense.
How prepared
are St. Joseph and the rest of Buchanan County for a bioterrorism
attack?
St. Joseph and Buchanan County have emergency response plans in
place to deal with hazardous chemical or biological events, as well
as other disasters and are currently working to strengthen these plans.
These plans involve the coordination of multiple agencies involved
in law enforcement, public health, fire, emergency medical services
and disaster response. For example, Public Health has developed systems
for rapid detection and investigation of disease outbreaks that could
be the first indication of a biological attack. Early detection will
be very important, so that persons at risk can be identified and managed
appropriately.
How safe
is our water?
The United States public water supply system is one of the safest
in the world. The general public should continue to drink and use
water just as they would under normal conditions. Your local water
treatment supplier and local governments are on the alert for any
unusual activity and will notify you immediately in the event of any
public health threat. At this point, we have no reason to believe
that additional measures need to be taken.
Should
I buy a Gas Mask?
No. The use of gas masks during a chemical or biological attack
is not recommended due to legitimate safety concerns. The lack of
training and improper use of masks, filters and hoods, as well as
a false sense of security as to their effectiveness, could pose a
threat to public safety. Without the proper training and equipment,
you could be putting yourself at greater risk. There is at least one,
recent documented instance where improper use of a gas mask lead to
civilian deaths.
What are
some of the diseases associated with bioterrorism?
The Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC) have listed a group of diseases that are
of highest concern. This “Category A” list includes the
biological agents that cause anthrax, plague, smallpox, botulism,
tularemia and the viral hemorrhagic fevers such as Ebola.
What is smallpox?
Smallpox is a serious, contagious and often fatal infectious disease
caused by variola virus. There currently is no specific treatment
for smallpox disease, and the only prevention is vaccination. Patients
with smallpox can benefit from supportive therapy (e.g., intravenous
fluids, medicine to control fever or pain) and antibiotics for any
secondary bacterial infections that may occur.
Can I
get the smallpox vaccine?
Currently, the vaccine is not available to the general public.
Right now, as a precautionary measure, the vaccine will be available
to members of emergency response and investigative teams. However
in the event of a smallpox outbreak, the vaccine will be offered to
everyone
Is there a charge for children or adult
immunizations?
There is no charge for most immunizations at the City of St. Joseph Health Department. Menactra, the vaccine to protect against meningitis, has a charge of $90. Call to confirm price and availability of Menactra vaccine. At this time, the health department clinic does not have Gardasil available. The clinic has a nominal charge for a TB test. TB vaccine is purchased by the clinic. The vaccines used in the immunization clinic are supplied through the Vaccine For Children (VFC) program.
Are vaccines safe?
Yes. Most children or adults don’t
have any reaction to receiving a vaccine.
Some children or adults may have a mild
reaction that lasts for only a short time.
The effects of the diseases vaccines protect
against can last a lifetime.
If my child has a fever or is on an antibiotic
can they still get immunized?
Unless your child is showing signs
of serious illness, it is safe to give the
vaccine.
Do you use a new needle and syringe on
every child?
Absolutely. All equipment is disposable
for the safety of the patient. The clinic
staff also use gloves when giving exams,
immunizations or when drawing a blood sample.
The gloves are changed between patients.
Do I need to start all my shots over
if I’m late getting one of my immunizations?
No. The clinic nurses will look
at your immunization record and decide what
needs to be given at that time. No shot
series is started over.
I’m
traveling to another country. Do I need
any vaccinations?
Possibly. The Clay County Health Department
in Liberty, Missouri can assist you. Contact
them at 816-781-1601 and ask for the Oversea’s
Nurse.
Are pregnancy tests accurate?
Yes. The clinic currently uses the Acceava test. This requires
a urine sample. It takes about 5 minutes for the test. A positive
test detects hcg, which is a hormone produced by the placenta of a
pregnant woman.
Is there a charge
for a pregnancy test?
As of July 1, 2011, a pregnancy test will cost $5.00. You do not need an appointment to have a test done. Tests
are done Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM to 4:00
PM.
How can I get temporary
Missouri HealthNet?
Temporary Missouri HealthNet is only for pregnant women. If you have
had a positive pregnancy test you can bring your proof of pregnancy
to the health department and we can issue your “temp”. You will
also need to bring proof of income, your social security number, and
a picture identity.
Can I prepare food
in my home kitchen and sell it for extra money?
Not unless it is a totally separate area in your home that
meets all the same requirements of a small café. Before doing anything,
please call 271-4636 and speak with one of our Food Safety Specialists.
Are all food service workers required
to wear disposable gloves while handling food?
Yes, but this only applies to ready to eat foods.
Are artificial fingernails allowed
by employees in a food service establishment ?
No, under our Food Code this practice is not allowed, even
if the person is wearing disposable gloves.
Does your department do any testing
for mold ?
No, there are no local companies that perform this testing
at this time. However, check the yellow pages in the Kansas City area.
Are food service workers required
to wear hair restraints?
Yes, it must be some type of physical restraint such as a ball
cap, visor, or hair net, etc. and it must be worn to effectively restrain
the hair.
What if my child tests positive for
lead?
Should a child test positive for lead, there are things that
can be done to limit their exposure to lead.
- Wash the child’s hands and face often, especially before snacks, meals and bedtime.
- Wash the child’s bed linens often to make sure they are clean.
- Wash toys when they become dusty or dirty.
- Place newspapers and magazines out of a child’s reach (there may be lead in the ink).
- Keep children away from painted surfaces, especially those that are peeling and chipping.
- Wipe down painted surfaces with a high phosphate detergent and wet-mop floors weekly.
- Seal off remodeling areas and keep children and pets away from this area.
- Prevent children from playing in dirt next to painted houses or buildings. Plant grass or shrubs in this area if possible.
- Remind family members to shower and change clothes before coming home if they work around lead-contaminated areas such as battery plants, automobile repair shops, craft shops where they are using stained glass, bait & tackle shops, etc. Wash their clothes separate from the rest of the family, especially the children’s clothes.
- Keep children from chewing or sucking on items unless you are certain they are non-toxic.
What roll does nutrition play in lowering
a child’s blood lead level?
Caregivers can help a child resist the harmful effects of lead
in the following ways:
- Make sure children eat a balanced diet with plenty of calcium, protein and iron.
- Avoid serving foods high in fat, junk food, soda pop and candy.
- Offer healthy snacks between meals since an empty stomach absorbs lead faster than one that is not empty.
Why is lead dangerous?
Lead is poisonous when swallowed or inhaled. In young children
it can cause reduced intelligence and learning disabilities that last
a lifetime.
COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES
Can chlamydia hurt my baby?
Yes, if untreated before you deliver. Your baby can be born
with lung or eye infections.
How do you get HIV?
Through exposure to blood or body fluids.
There
really aren’t that many NEW cases of HIV anymore, are there?
There continue to be 40,000 new cases of HIV infection each year
across the U.S. 1/2 of these new infections are occurring in persons
under the age of 25.
What is
the difference between HIV and AIDS?
HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus and is the virus that
causes AIDS or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. It does this by
breaking down the body's immune system, making it susceptible to all
kinds of illnesses and infections.
What are
the symptoms?
Symptoms of HIV infection include, but are not limited to: fatigue,
chronic high fever or chronic diarrhea/vomiting. Many people do not
have symptoms at all.
How long
before symptoms appear?
It may take as long as 10-15 years for symptoms to appear after
a person has been infected with HIV.
What is
the HIV test?
The HIV test looks for antibodies to HIV in either a blood specimen
or an oral specimen. Results take two weeks to come back and testing
is confidential. This antibody test can detect antibodies
as soon as 2 weeks - 6 months after infection. The test will cost $10.00 as of August 1, 2011.
How can
a person become infected with HIV?
HIV is spread through unprotected oral, anal, vaginal sex with
an infected person, through sharing needles/blood with an infected
person, or from HIV-infected mother to child either before, during,
or after birth through breast-feeding.
How do
you prevent HIV infection?
You can prevent HIV infection as easy as A,B,C: A stands for abstinence
and is simply not having sex or sharing blood with anyone. It is the
only 100% way to prevention infection. B stands for being in a mutually
faithful, committed, relationship with only one uninfected person
who does not share needles/blood with anyone. C stands for condoms
and/or safer sex use.
If someone
is infected with the HIV virus in a rural county, how can they get
services?
The program covers 16 Northwest Missouri.
If someone
is infected with the HIV virus, what requirements do they need to
meet to get services?
To enroll in case management a person must have proof of HIV Positive
Status, show need per assessment, and be less than or equal to 300%
of poverty.
WIC
(Women, Infants, Children)
What
is WIC?
WIC is Women, Infants, and Children Nutrition Program which is
funded by the federal government. We service women who are pregnant,
breastfeeding or whose pregnancy recently ended or infants under 12
months old and children under 5 years old who have qualified financially
and have been found to have a nutritional risk. We can also test infants
and children in these age ranges who have a male guardian.
How
do I get WIC?
To get WIC, you need to meet the WIC income guidelines and have
a nutritional risk.
Pregnant women are counted as two family members. Income guidelines are based on 185% of poverty level. This instutution is an equal opportunity provider. Cuentan a las mujeres embarazadas como dos miembros de la familia. Las reglas del ingreso se basan el 185% del nivel de pobreza. Esta institucion es un proveedor de igualdad de oportunidades! WIC 909 (04/06)
Do
you have the name of a good dentist?
The
Medicaid dentist located on the upper floor of Patee Market is (816)
271-7807 Or please refer to the yellow pages for dentists in the community.
What are
some phone numbers of various community help programs?
Division of Family Services - 387-2000
Family Guidance - 364-1501
Head Start - 233-7193
Parents-As-Teachers - 671-4300
Birthright - 279-8242
Catholic Charities - 232-2885
EOC - 233-7193
Calvin Center - 232-7779
Inter-Serv - 238-4511
What
are your hours?
Our office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
What do
we bring to the certification/recertification?
Picture ID:
Drivers License, School ID, or Work Identification
Medicaid Card
Person or persons to be certified/recertified for WIC
Social Security Card
Shot record of child
Proof of income: wages, child support, SSI, interest on accounts etc.
Crib Card or discharge papers from hospital for baby
How
can I be certain my breastfed baby is getting enough to eat?
Breastfeeding is the perfect food for babies. The American Academy
of Pediatrics
recommends breastfeeding as the best source of nutrition through at
least the first birthday and longer when possible. Parents should
look for certain characteristics to help identify the signs of a healthy,
well-fed newborn. A baby should have a minimum of six wet diapers
and three bowel movements per day after the third day of life; a weight
loss no greater than 7 to 10 percent of the child's birth weight;
and show a weight gain beginning the second week of life. For guidance
on breastfeeding, contact WIC http://www.dhss.mo.gov/breastfeeding/index.html ,
a lactation specialist at Heartland Regional Medical Center New Beginnings
or a local chapter of the LeLeche League http://www.lalecheleague.org/
Where
can I get more formula?
Birthright, food pantries, Heartbeat Pregnancy, Support Services.
WIC only provides so much formula per month to an infant and the rest
of the formula needs for the infant are up to the guardian.
Where
are the food pantries?
Contact the Social Welfare Board at 233-5188 for a complete, up-to-date
listing of food pantries.
What
foods can I get on WIC?
Women and children: milk, cheese, eggs, cereal, peanut butter,
beans, 100% natural juices.
If postpartum women are fully breastfeeding, they also get carrots
and tuna added to their package.
Baby formula, baby cereal and baby juices.
