Health Department

Original article printed in Fairfax County's Golden Gazette. Hearing loss is a common condition that affects millions of older adults worldwide. As we age, changes in our hearing can significantly impact our quality of life, yet it often goes undetected and untreated. Understanding the signs of hearing impairment and the importance of regular hearing screenings can help individuals maintain their overall health and well-being. Recognizing the Signs Hearing loss often develops gradually, making it difficult for individuals to notice the early signs. If you’re wondering whether you might have hearing impairment, consider the following questions: Do you often ask people to repeat themselves? Do you find it challenging to follow conversations in noisy environments? Does it seem like others are mumbling or speaking too softly? Do you experience ringing or buzzing in your ears (tinnitus)? Do you frequently turn up the volume on the TV or radio? If you answered "yes" to one or more of these questions, you might be experiencing hearing loss. It’s important to seek a professional evaluation to determine the extent of the issue and explore potential solutions. Hearing Screening Is Crucial Regular hearing screenings are essential, especially for older adults. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), nearly one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 experiences hearing loss, and the prevalence increases to nearly half for those over 75. Despite this, many individuals delay seeking help for years, often due to stigma or the misconception that hearing loss is a minor inconvenience. Here are some reasons why hearing screening is vital: Early Detection: Identifying hearing loss early allows for timely intervention, which can prevent further deterioration and improve communication abilities. Overall Health: Untreated hearing loss has been linked to cognitive decline, social isolation, depression, and an increased risk of falls. Improved Relationships: Addressing hearing issues can enhance communication with family and friends, reducing misunderstandings and frustration. Better Quality of Life: Using hearing aids or other assistive devices can help individuals re-engage in activities they enjoy, from attending social events to watching movies without struggling to hear. What to Expect During a Hearing Screening A hearing screening is a quick and painless process conducted by an audiologist or hearing care professional. It typically involves: Hearing History: Discussing any symptoms, medical conditions, or exposure to loud noises that could impact hearing. Physical Examination: Checking for earwax buildup, infections, or other physical issues. Hearing Tests: Using headphones to listen to a series of tones or words at different volumes and pitches to assess hearing ability. If hearing loss is detected, your provider will discuss treatment options, which may include hearing aids, cochlear implants, or lifestyle changes to protect your remaining hearing. Taking Action If you suspect hearing loss or haven’t had your hearing checked in several years, schedule a screening with a qualified professional. Addressing hearing loss not only improves your ability to communicate but also supports your overall health and well-being. The Fairfax County Health Department conducts hearing tests at its clinics in Alexandria, Fairfax and Reston. Evaluations are completed by licensed audiologists who are certified through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and involve using a soundproof booth and testing technology that is non-invasive. This information can then be used to develop a care plan, which might include a hearing aid or other treatment. Hearing services at the clinics are offered on a sliding fee scale based on household income.  For more information on variety of types of services offered, specific pricing information, or to request  an appointment, contact the Health Department at 703-246-7120 (TTY 711) or request services online at bit.ly/ffx-intake-form.  Remember, hearing is a vital part of staying connected to the world around you. Don’t wait to take the first step toward better hearing and a better quality of life. The Fairfax County Health Department provides Speech and Hearing Services; get more information: Speech and Hearing Services for Children and Adults

What is your role at the Fairfax County Health Department?  I am the Project Coordinator at the Fairfax Food Council. I maintain and forge new partnerships and facilitate collaboration among multi-sector stakeholders and volunteers throughout Fairfax County.  The Fairfax Food Council (FFC) was established by the Partnership for a Healthier Fairfax in 2015 with a vision of an equitable and sustainable food system where food is valued as a basic human right. Its mission is to advocate for an equitable local food system that produces and provides access to nutritious, sustainable, and affordable food for everyone.  What inspired you to work in public health?  I have a passion for systems thinking and a comprehensive understanding of the interrelatedness of public health, nutrition, the environment, equity, economics, and society. As a Certified Exercise Physiologist with a master's degree in Public Health in Food Security and Nutrition, the Fairfax Food Council is a perfect fit for me. The Fairfax Food Council serves as a food system hub, enabling community members, non-profits, faith partners, county agencies, and businesses to convene, share knowledge and resources, and advocate for an equitable local food system that produces and provides access to nutritious, sustainable, and affordable food for everyone. So much of what I enjoy is combined here in one place.  What motivates you?   My motivation stems from knowing that the food system can and should be improved. There is a lot of great work being done in the food space and that should be celebrated. But there is also so much more that can be done to benefit Fairfax communities, especially underserved communities.  What is something you’d like people to know about the Food Council?  Community participation is an essential part of the Fairfax Food Council. If you’d like to learn more about how the Fairfax Food Council is improving the food system and how you can get involved, visit https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/food-council/. 

What is bird flu? Bird flu is a disease caused by avian influenza A viruses that typically spread between birds, not people. What is happening with bird flu in the U.S. right now? Avian influenza virus A (H5) virus is spreading among wild birds and causing outbreaks in U.S. poultry and dairy cows. There have also been instances of infection in mammals and in rare cases, humans. Human cases have mostly occurred in poultry and dairy farm workers after working with infected animals. There has been no evidence of human-to-human spread in the current outbreak. Should I be worried about bird flu? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report the risk of H5 bird flu for the public remains low. There are enhanced precautions recommended for those who might be at greater risk if they have job-related or recreational exposure to birds or infected animals. To keep you and your family safe, do not handle sick or dead wildlife and do not consume raw or unpasteurized animal products. What should I do if I find sick or dead wild birds on my property? The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) has guidelines for when to report sick or dead wild birds. Any unusual poultry illnesses or deaths in Virginia backyard flocks should be reported to the State Veterinarian’s Office at 804-692-0601. What should I do if I am experiencing flu-like symptoms? If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever, cough, sore throat, etc.), contact your primary care physician. Stay home and away with others until you feel better and practice other respiratory prevention strategies like using good hand washing and covering your coughs and sneezes. If you have had recent contact with sick or dead birds or are a poultry or dairy farm worker, contact your healthcare provider and tell them about your exposure.