Oktibbeha County, MS Health Department

I was able to speak with Registered Nurse, Rushawnda Nash, from the Oktibbeha County Health Department. We talked about the top five trends and issues that the health department deals most in Oktibbeha County, Mississippi.

1.  The first issue she mentioned to me was immunizations. Although this may not seem like it is an issue at hand, a large portion of their child or teen patients are visiting for immunizations. It is important to receive immunizations before children start school to help prevent diseases from spreading through out the community. Oktibbeha County is also home to a large University, so immunizations are also important for young adults as well. Immunizations are usually given to young children, but are also common to receive them through the schools.

2. The second issue Rushwanda mentioned was high blood pressure. High blood pressure is an issue throughout the county, as well as the entire state of Mississippi. It is a major issue because diet as well as genes can influence high blood pressure. Rushawnda mentioned that her department helps patients lower their blood pressure. Two ways she specifically mentioned to help prevent high blood pressure is through a low sodium diet and exercise.

3. A third issue Rushawnda talked about was diabetes. Diabetes is also an issue for the entire state of Mississippi. Diabetes is alarmingly increasing throughout the country, but it is a major concern in Mississippi. In Oktibbeha County, it is also a concern for children and teens. The health department is trying to use a preventative approach to decrease the number of diabetic patients.

4. Teenage pregnancy is also a major issue in Oktibbeha County. There are several cases of teenage pregnancy through out the county. Teenage pregnancy affects all classes and races in the county. The health department tries to prevent teenage pregnancy by educating the public, especially in public schools, about the effects of unplanned parenthood. They also provide support for teens parents.

5. The last issue Rushawnda talked about was sexually transmitted diseases. She mentioned STDs was probably the biggest issue the health department is dealing with. STDs most affect teens and young adults throughout the county. She mentioned that the department tries to decrease the number of STD cases by promotion. To promote prevention of STDs, the health department has ABC counseling, teaches abstinence, and teaches using safe sex throughout the public schools in the county. STDs also affect most races and classes among teens and young adults.

I enjoyed speaking with Rushawnda, and it was interesting to hear about the issues that are happening in the city that I grew up in. Although Mississippi is struggling with a several health issues, the health plan is improving and they are looking forward to the future. 

Kailey Goodman