TN.gov Newsroom

May marks the beginning of West Nile Virus season in Tennessee, and the Department of Health will once again monitor test results from mosquito pools across the state. In 2006, Tennessee saw an increase in the number of human West Nile cases over the previous year and the most since 2003, when 26 cases were reported. There were 22 human cases confirmed in 2006, with one fatality. Tennessee had more human West Nile Virus cases in 2006 than any of the surrounding states except Mississippi. Mississippi has already confirmed two human cases of West Nile Virus this year.

Cathy R. Taylor, DrPH, MSN, RN, is the new assistant commissioner for the Tennessee Department of Health’s Bureau of Health Services Administration, Commissioner Susan R. Cooper, MSN, RN, announced Monday. In this role, Taylor will oversee a system of 13 regional health offices responsible for the oversight of services in 89 rural and six metropolitan county health departments. 

The Tennessee Department of Health, Office of Vital Records has awarded Certificates of Superior Performance to the top 10 percent of Tennessee funeral establishments for death certificate timeliness in 2006.

Tennessee Department of Health Commissioner Susan R. Cooper, MSN, RN, has suspended new admissions of patients to Douglas Nursing Home and imposed a state civil monetary penalty of $1,500. The state also has recommended that a federal civil penalty be imposed at $3,050 a day until the violations are corrected. A special monitor will be appointed to review the center’s operations. 

Tennessee Department of Health Commissioner Susan R. Cooper, MSN, RN, was on hand today in Maryville for the open house and dedication for Blount County’s new Health Department facility. Cooper also met with county staff members and local government officials.

Christy A. Allen is the new assistant commissioner for the Tennessee Department of Health’s Bureau of Health Licensure and Regulation, Commissioner Susan R. Cooper, MSN, RN, announced today. In this role, Allen will oversee a staff of approximately 500 in the Divisions of Health Related Boards, Health Care Facilities and Emergency Medical Services. 

As the weather begins to get warmer, children and teens get outside to participate in team and individual sports. Kids and parents alike should keep in mind that thousands of teens suffer tooth, lip, cheek and tongue injuries by blows to the face while engaging in spring sports and outdoor activities.  

Since 2004, the Tennessee Office of Minority Health has observed National Minority Health Month. Through a proclamation signed by Governor Phil Bredesen, Tennessee has again joined the national call to officially designate April 2007 as Tennessee’s Minority Health Month. As an extension of Minority Health Month, the Tennessee Office of Minority Health is sponsoring the daylong Minority Health Month Summit “Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention:  Embracing Our Hearts.” 

Health Commissioner Susan R. Cooper, MSN, RN, today announced that the Williamson County Health Department and the five Rotary Clubs of Williamson County have developed a partnership and received a $10,000 grant to increase the level of immunizations of children under the age of 2 in the county. 

No one ever expects disaster to strike, but being prepared is the best way to help your family cope with an emergency situation. The Tennessee Department of Health (TDOH) urges Tennesseans to talk with their families about preparing a disaster plan during National Public Health Week, April 2-8, 2007.