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Allegheny County

All articles tagged with #allegheny county

PA Democrats Secure State House Majority With Allegheny, Lehigh Special Wins
politics3 days ago

PA Democrats Secure State House Majority With Allegheny, Lehigh Special Wins

Democrats in the Pennsylvania House preserved their 102-seat majority by winning two special elections in Allegheny (42nd District) and Lehigh (22nd District) counties: Jen Mazzocco and Ana Tiburcio won for Democrats, replacing Republicans who vacated the seats. The wins leave three GOP-held seats still to be filled later this year, keeping the chamber at 102-98 until those elections occur. Additional special elections are scheduled in March to fill unexpired terms for Schmitt and Ecker and a May primary for Seth Grove’s seat, with George Margetas listed as the sole candidate for the 196th District race.

Allegheny County Wastewater Tests Reveal Fentanyl, Xylazine, and More
public-health1 month ago

Allegheny County Wastewater Tests Reveal Fentanyl, Xylazine, and More

Allegheny County is using wastewater testing to track the presence of drugs like fentanyl, xylazine, and others, providing public health officials with valuable data to respond to evolving drug trends and inform funding and treatment strategies. The testing, conducted by Biobot Analytics, offers an additional layer of insight alongside other data sources, helping to address the complex and changing drug supply in the region.

Exploring Racial Disparities in Overdose Death Rates
health1 year ago

Exploring Racial Disparities in Overdose Death Rates

Overdose deaths among Black residents in Allegheny County have surged since 2018, with rates now more than triple those of white residents, largely due to the presence of fentanyl in the drug supply. The county is addressing these racial disparities through community outreach, provider training, and initiatives like the Connect, Protect and Recover campaign. Organizations such as Pathway to Care and Recovery are pivotal in offering free, 24/7 support and fostering trust within the community. Efforts are ongoing to improve access to treatment and reduce stigma, supported by opioid settlement funds.

West Nile Virus Detected in Pittsburgh, First Human Case Reported
health1 year ago

West Nile Virus Detected in Pittsburgh, First Human Case Reported

A Baldwin resident in Allegheny County has been hospitalized with the first human case of West Nile virus in Pennsylvania this year. The patient experienced fever and weakness and had been outdoors frequently. In response, additional mosquito traps have been set up in the area. West Nile virus is spread by infected mosquitoes, and while most people do not feel sick, symptoms can include fever, headache, and body aches. There are no vaccines or treatments for the virus, and residents are advised to use bug spray and eliminate stagnant water to prevent mosquito breeding.

"Two Dead, Multiple Injured in Penn Hills Hookah Bar Shooting"
crime1 year ago

"Two Dead, Multiple Injured in Penn Hills Hookah Bar Shooting"

A mass shooting at the Ballers Hookah Lounge and Cigar Bar in Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, left two people dead and seven injured early Sunday morning. The incident, which occurred after a fight broke out inside the bar, involved multiple shooters. Police are still investigating and have not made any arrests. This is the third shooting at the establishment in recent months.

"Health Officials Urge Vaccination Amid Rising Mpox Cases"
health1 year ago

"Health Officials Urge Vaccination Amid Rising Mpox Cases"

Allegheny County is experiencing an increase in Mpox cases, with 11 confirmed cases this year, 10 of which were reported in April. Dr. Amesh Adalja emphasizes the importance of the two-dose vaccine for high-risk populations to curb the spread, particularly among men who have sex with men. While not seen as a major public health threat, proactive measures including vaccination, behavior change, and testing are crucial. The Health Department is actively communicating with healthcare providers to manage the situation.