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Health department nurse warns about alpha-gal syndrome
BY ROGER SMITH MOUNTAIN CITIZEN INEZ — A bite from a lone star tick can do more than leave an itchy mark. It can trigger a serious allergy that makes red meat, dairy and even some processed foods dangerous. Registered nurse Lakean Meade of the Martin County Health Department spoke recently to Kiwanis Club members
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Happy Nurses Week
BY DOROTHY DILLON This week, the Martin County Health Department is celebrating the incredible nurses who serve our community with compassion, dedication and heart every single day. A special shoutout to our amazing team: Penny Dye, Jennifer Jude, Lakean Meade, Olivia Lafferty and Breanna Greer. Thank you for all that you do for Martin County.
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Health department to host Alpha-Gal Support Group May 7
BY DOROTHY DILLON INEZ — The Martin County Health Department will host an Alpha-Gal Support Group on Thursday, May 7, at 10 a.m. at the health department, 136 Rockcastle Road in Inez. The free event is open to people living with Alpha-Gal syndrome, caregivers and anyone who wants to learn more about the condition. The
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Diabetes Connection 2026 to focus on benefits of physical activity
BY LAKEAN MEADE The Martin County Health Department, in partnership with Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH) and Aetna Better Health of Kentucky, will host Diabetes Connection 2026 on April 30 at 10 a.m. at the Martin County Health Department located at 136 Rockcastle Road in Inez. This free educational session will focus on the benefits of
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Health department puts people first
BY DOROTHY DILLON You matter, Martin County. Public health is not just programs; it is people. It is neighbors helping neighbors, families supporting families, and a team that shows up every day to serve this community we love. At the Martin County Health Department, each day our work focuses on improving health, reducing risks, and
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Martin County Health Department hosts septic system refresher course
BY DOROTHY DILLON The Martin County Health Department recently hosted a Septic System Refresher Course, continuing its efforts to support community health through education and public service. The course, led by Patrick Boyd, brought together attendees from across Eastern Kentucky and provided updated information on proper septic system maintenance, emphasizing its importance in protecting local
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Diabetes Connection: ‘Fill Your Plate’ March 26
Join us March 26 for Diabetes Connection: “Fill Your Plate!” Not sure what your plate should actually look like for balanced blood sugar? Wondering how to build healthier meals without overcomplicating it? We are keeping it simple, practical and hands-on. This is not a lecture. We will build plates together and share real-life tips you
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Diabetes Connection March 26
BY LAKEAN DUFF, RN Join us March 26 for Diabetes Connection: “Fill Your Plate!” Not sure what your plate should actually look like for balanced blood sugar? Wondering how to build healthier meals without overcomplicating it? We are keeping it simple, practical and hands-on. This is not a lecture. We will build plates together and
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WIC supports moms, infants and young children
BY DOROTHY DILLON The WIC Program at the Martin County Health Department provides nutrition support for pregnant women, new moms, infants and children under age 5. Families enrolled in WIC may receive healthy food benefits, breastfeeding support, nutrition counseling, and referrals to other health services. The program helps support healthy pregnancies and growing families by
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Fill your plate, fill your toolkit: Diabetes Connection returns March 26
BY LAKEAN MEADE Mark your calendar for March 26. Join us for our next Diabetes Connection: “Fill Your Plate.” If you missed us Feb. 26 at the Martin County Health Department, you missed a great time. Want to learn how to cook healthier meals? Not sure what your plate should look like for balanced blood










