Health Department to Offer Smoking Cessation Classes

The Lexington-Fayette County Health Department wants smokers to start the new year by stopping an old habit.

The health department is offering two classes designed for people who want to quit smoking. One class will be held 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays beginning Jan. 11 at the Public Health Clinic North, 805A Newtown Circle, while the other will be 5:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesdays beginning Feb. 2 at Tates Creek Public Library, 3628 Walden Drive. To sign up for one of the classes or for more information, call 288-2423.

“Cooper-Clayton classes are one of the most effective methods we can offer a person who wants to quit smoking,” said Angela Brumley-Shelton, Community Education and Tobacco coordinator. “They work well because they provide social support and education and use nicotine replacement products. These three things work together to give a participant the best chance at stopping smoking for life.”

The Cooper-Clayton Method to stop Smoking provides 12 weeks of education and support sessions that have been proven effective for smokers no matter how long they’ve used tobacco products. The class requires a $50 registration deposit that will be reimbursed upon completion of the program if the person has completed all 12 classes and has remained smoke-free. Participants will receive nicotine replacement therapy products, such as nicotine gum, patches and lozenges, at no cost as long as they are smoke-free after the third week of the program.

The health department also uses the KY QUITLINE at 1-800-QUITNOW.

Flu Rates rise in Fayette County

As of November 30, Lexington has 38 confirmed cases of the flu so far this season, which the health department reports is higher than normal compared to previous years. In 2008, there were no confirmed cases as of the end of November, while in 2007 there were two. The numbers from 2009 were higher than normal because of H1N1. The flu season traditionally hits its peak in January/February.

The Lexington-Fayette County Health Department has issued a recommendation encouraging everyone ages 6 months and older to get a flu shot, which covers both the seasonal and H1N1 strains of the flu, to help keep from getting sick this fall and winter.

“Not only is a flu shot quick and easy to receive, it’s also the best way to fight the flu,” said health department spokesman Kevin Hall.

A total of 19 of the 38 confirmed cases are in children, and the health department is encouraging all parents to make sure their kids help fight the flu with a vaccination. In addition, the health department urges pregnant women to get a shot since young babies are not able to get vaccinated. The flu shot will not only protect the mother-to-be but will also protect the baby during its first six months.

Flu shots are available at the Public Health Clinic North (805A Newtown Circle and Public Health Clinic South (2433 Regency Road). No appointment is necessary. Flu shots cost $25, and Medicaid, Medicare B, cash, checks and credit cards are accepted.

The Primary Care Center at 650 Newtown Pike is prepared to make appointments for its regular patients to get their flu shots by calling 288-2307.

For additional information, find the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department on Facebook, call the flu hotline at 288-7529 or visit www.lexflucrew.com.

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