Healthy Chicago Podcast

Many sleep-related infant deaths occur in ordinary, everyday circumstances: exhaustion, bedsharing, soft bedding, and safe sleep spaces that go unused in moments of fatigue. These situations can be life-threatening for a baby.In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Gina Lowell, Director of Community Health for Pediatrics at Rush University Children’s Hospital, and Dr. Kyran Quinlan, Pediatric Medical Advisor at the Illinois Department of Public Health. Over the past five years, they’ve documented these deaths, explored the circumstances surrounding them, and investigated why they continue to happen.This conversation goes beyond the numbers: it’s about what they’ve witnessed firsthand, the challenges families face, and how communities can provide meaningful support during one of the most vulnerable times in a child’s life.Safe sleep education, home visiting programs, and community resources are available across Chicago and Cook County to support families and caregivers. For more information on infant safe sleep practices, visit chicago.gov/onechifam/safesleep.

¿Sabías que hay un grupo de jóvenes de entre 14 y 19 años que ayudan a asesorar a líderes de la ciudad sobre los desafíos que existen hoy en día en la salud mental y que contribuyen a la creación de políticas que apoyan el bienestar de la juventud en nuestra ciudad?En este episodio, tuvimos una conversación sin filtros con integrantes del Grupo de Trabajo de Salud Pública de la Comisión de Juventud del alcalde de Chicago sobre la salud mental en los jóvenes. Exploramos los desafíos que enfrentan hoy en día, desde la presión escolar y el impacto de las redes sociales hasta la influencia de la cultura, la política y la religión, y por qué es fundamental escuchar sus voces para construir un mayor bienestar en nuestra comunidad.

On this episode of the Healthy Chicago Podcast, Ayo and Charlotte, local high school students and members of the Mayor’s Youth Commission (MYC), join Kathy Calderon (Director of Behavioral Health Program Operations) in conversation about their work in the MYC, raising awareness about mental health amongst Chicago’s youth, and how current trends and technologies like social media present challenges and advantages for some teenagers.Learn more about the Mayor’s Youth Commission at https://explore.mychimyfuture.org/chicagoyouthcommissionTo find access to mental health resources near you, visit https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/cdph/supp_info/behavioral-health/mental_health_centers.html

What is National Infant Immunization Week and why is it important? On this episode, Atinuke Ajibola (Public Health Nurse II) and Diana Balbarin (Nurse Practitioner) discuss why this yearly observance is crucial for children’s health, what the current guidelines are, and how to navigate any uncertainty around vaccines and vaccine-prevention illnesses.Find out more at https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/cdph/provdrs/infectious_disease/svcs/vaccines-and-vaccine-preventable-diseases.html

Como cada año, la Semana Nacional de la Vacunación Infantil se celebra la tercera semana de abril. En este episodio, Ariel Padilla y Whitney Bellido, enfermeras de las clínicas de inmunización de las vacunas, nos hablan sobre la importancia de estar al día con las vacunas, cómo estas protegen a los más pequeños y cuál es el calendario actualizado de vacunación. También abordamos los mitos que rodean a las vacunas y cómo los padres pueden estar bien informados para tomar decisiones que protejan a sus hijos.

¿Alguna vez te has preguntado quién realiza la labor de investigar y contener el contagio de enfermedades en Chicago?En este episodio hablamos con la Investigadora de enfermedades, María Ferreira-Alharb, quien se dedica a investigar y contener brotes. Es un trabajo que realiza a diario para proteger la vida de los habitantes de Chicago. Nos cuenta qué pistas sigue para encontrar el origen de un brote, el seguimiento que lleva a cabo y cómo apoya a las personas para que asistan a sus citas médicas y cuiden su salud, ayudando así a contener los contagios.

Noel Green speaks with LaRhonda Witherspoon about the role that CDPH's Syndemic Infectious Diseases Bureau plays in providing support for patients who have fallen out of care. The Department’s Communicable Disease Control Investigators (CDCI) connect with newly diagnosed cases of communicable and infectious diseases to help with proper use of medications, provide understanding of diagnoses, link patients to care, prevent further transmission of diseases, and more. Learn more at chicago.gov/partnerservices.To find more resources from CDPH around Syndemic Infectious Diseases, visit https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/cdph/provdrs/infectious_disease.html

March is National Nutrition Month—a time to highlight the importance of making informed food choices and developing healthy eating habits. On this episode, Tallett Vanek (Director of Nutrition at CDPH) is joined by Annie Chacko (Regional Nutrition Coordinator at CDPH) and Nancy Rivera (WIC Supervisor at Alivio Medical Center) to discuss the vital role of CDPH’s WIC clinics in supporting families across Chicago. WIC clinics provide nutritional education, access to healthy foods, and offer resources that help parents and caregivers give their children the best start in life. To find more information, go to Chicago.gov/WIC.

¿Sabías que Chicago cuenta con la red de monitoreo de aire más grande de todo el país y la segunda más grande del mundo? Esta red está formada por monitores que recopilan datos sobre la calidad del aire, permitiendo conocer qué respiran los residentes de la ciudad, medir los niveles de contaminación y prevenir problemas de salud. Además, estos datos ayudan a que los ciudadanos puedan tomar decisiones más informadas en su vida diaria.Tras dos años de intensa planificación y coordinación con socios comunitarios, este proyecto se ha hecho realidad, y organizaciones como la Organización de Justicia Ambiental de La Villita (LVEJO) fueron pieza clave para su implementación. Jocelyn Vázquez-Gómez, de (LVEJO) nos cuenta cuál fue su papel en este proyecto y cómo los monitores de aire ayudarán a generar soluciones en áreas como La Villita, donde se registran altos niveles de contaminación debido a fábricas, el tráfico y otros factores.

Antonio King is no stranger to Chicago Department of Public Health, spending 21 years with the department in various roles before becoming the first Director of LGBTQ+ Affairs for the City of Chicago. [Visit his previous conversation with Jamie Frazier (Executive Director of Lighthouse Foundation) on Episode 68.] In conversation with CDPH Information Coordinator James Scalzitti, King discusses his new position, challenges and goals that lie ahead, LGBTQ Health Awareness Week, and the influence of the recently passed Reverend Jesse Jackson.As Director of LGBTQ+ Affairs, King will guide Mayor Johnson administration’s initiatives and programs serving the LGBTQ+ community, ensure LGBTQ+ owned businesses receive equitable attention and support, and coordinate existing efforts across City departments and agencies to uplift LGTBQ+ Chicagoans. As part of the Mayor’s Office of Health and Human Services, King will also work closely with the Mayor’s policy team to develop a policy plan that strengthens protections and opportunities for LGBTQ+ Chicagoans.

Nearly 26% of Chicago’s population lives with a disability—over 500,000 people across all ages, neighborhoods, and backgrounds. In collaboration with the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD), CDPH recently released its newest report, “Neighborhood Conditions for Adults with Disabilities in Chicago,” highlighting the lived experiences of people with disabilities and the neighborhood conditions that affect them to help the city create more inclusive environments.In this episode, Tessa Day (epidemiologist at CDPH) and Clarissa Stanhope, (Director of Accessibility Services at Parkland College and formerly with MOPD) discuss the report and how it provides public servants, elected officials, and community leaders with the insights and data needed to improve the health, safety, and well-being of Chicagoans with disabilities.To read the full report, visit: https://bit.ly/ChicagoDisabilityReport

In the summer of 2025, the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) and University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) School of Public Health installed 277 sensors throughout Chicago, making it the largest community air monitoring network in the United States and the second largest in the world. Now, the partnership has publicly launched air sensor data via Open Air Chicago.Grace Adams, CDPH Environmental Health Projects Administrator, and Jaime Groth Searle, Founder and Executive Director of The Southwest Collective, discuss Open Air Chicago, how it can be utilized, and its possible applications for Chicago’s community members, including those in Searle’s beloved southwest region.Learn more about air quality in your Chicago neighborhood area by visiting the Open Air Chicago map.

El consumo de alimentos poco saludables, el tabaquismo y la falta de actividad física pueden aumentar el riesgo de hipertensión y enfermedades cardiovasculares. Febrero es el mes de la concientización sobre la salud del corazón y representa una oportunidad perfecta para modificar hábitos, realizar chequeos de rutina de este órgano vital y conocer los recursos disponibles para mantenerlo fuerte y sano.En este episodio te explicamos cómo mantener el cuerpo en movimiento, reducir el consumo de alimentos procesados y realizar controles médicos periódicos puede ayudarte a disminuir el riesgo de enfermedades cardíacas.

February is American Heart Month.CDPH Medical Director for Immunizations and Emergency Preparedness Alex Sloboda and Commissioner Olusimbo Ige discuss the importance of heart health, heart disease and its risks and symptoms, and how you can decrease your risks for heart issues.Additionally, the team discusses how CDPH, Chicago Public Libraries, and Chicago Park District work together each February to offer free heart health screenings: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/heart-health-month. Find more resources pertaining to heart health at https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/cdph/supp_info/chronic-disease/heart-disease.html.

Wherever you go in Chicago, it seems there’s somebody nearby with a cough, runny nose, or congestion. So, what is the city's status during the current respiratory virus season? Medical Director Dr. Brian Borah talks with Senior Epidemiologist Stephanie Gretsch about activity levels of flu, RSV, and COVID; overall trends around virus activity levels; and how to protect yourself when diseases are at elevated levels.Find out where to get vaccinated and current respiratory illness activity in Chicago.Dive into the data with the 2025-’26 mid-respiratory season Vaccine Coverage here.

On the last episode of the season, the two-person “Team Tobacco” Chioma Ejiofor (Public Health Administrator III) and Juan Ortega (Public Health Administrator III) discuss the difference between tobacco and nicotine, how smoking affects the brain and body, predatory marketing from the tobacco industry, and how you can get assistance should you want to quit.Get help quitting tobacco at the Illinois Tobacco Quitline (https://www.quityes.org/) or call 1-866-QUIT-YES.Find more smoking cessation resources at https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/cdph/supp_info/healthy-communities/smoking-cessation.html

On this episode, Dr. Francisco Rodriguez (CDPH Director of Mental Health Clinics) speaks with Donald “DJ” Watson (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Fables CEC) about themes surrounding men’s mental health. The conversation covers toxic masculinity, stereotypes vs. reality, cultural differences in masculinity, and how men can acknowledge personal challenges and ask for help.DJ Watson can be reached for counseling and therapy services at FablesCEC.com.

Hablemos de las redadas migratorias. Muchas personas se vieron forzadas a mantenerse en casa; dejaron de ir a sus trabajos, a las escuelas y de realizar sus actividades cotidianas por miedo a ser detenidas en algún operativo migratorio. Ante todo esto, ¿cuáles fueron las consecuencias en su salud mental? ¿Cómo se vio afectada su estabilidad emocional ante el temor de una separación familiar?En este episodio hablamos con el Dr. Francisco Rodríguez, director de las Clínicas de Salud Mental de CDPH, sobre cómo las familias han tenido que lidiar con el estrés y sobre las herramientas con las que cada una puede contar en casa para aliviar un poco la ansiedad que el ambiente migratorio les puede generar.También conversamos sobre cómo acceder a cualquiera de nuestras 7 clínicas de salud mental, que ofrecen servicios a todos los residentes de Chicago, sin importar su estatus migratorio, su capacidad de pago o si tienen seguro médico. Además, contamos con la opción de terapia virtual con personal totalmente bilingüe.

Since June 1, 2025, Chicago has experienced another outbreak of mpox, with cases spiking in September. But what exactly is mpox? Further, what are the symptoms, who is at greatest risk for transmission, and what steps can people take to protect themselves? What should clinical providers know about testing and identifying mpox in practice?In this episode, Irina ("Dr. T") Tabidze, MD, MPH (Director of Program Operations at CDPH within the Syndemic Infectious Disease Bureau) leads a discussion on everything mpox with Taylor Holly, MPH (Epidemiologist III with CDPH within the Syndemic Infectious Disease Bureau) and Jahanavi Ramakrishna, MD (Infectious Diseases Fellow with Rush University System for Health & Cook County Health). The trio of health experts discuss the clinical perspective of mpox—transmission, signs and symptoms, vaccination guidance, and testing—and how coordinated public health efforts have contributed to a recent decline in cases (spoiler alert: vaccinations!).Visit the mpox homepage (https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/cdph/provdrs/infectious_disease/supp_info/mpox-home.html) on the CDPH site to answer all your mpox questions.Visit the CDPH STI Specialty Clinics homage (https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/cdph/provdrs/health_services/svcs/sexual-health-services.html) for more information about free sexual health and wellness resources. [This episode was recorded on October 29, 2025.]

In Chicago and Illinois, changes are coming to the Health Insurance Marketplace. Did you know nearly 1 in 10 Chicagoans are uninsured? With open enrollment having started on November 1 and many new questions about affordability arising, it is the perfect time to take action.In this episode, Director Morgan Winters from Get Covered Illinois joins host Joy Macatangay, Public Health Administrator at CDPH, to break down everything you need to know about Open Enrollment. They discuss who’s eligible, how Get Covered Illinois can help you navigate the Marketplace, and what happens if you miss this important window. Plus, learn about the important resources Get Covered Illinois offers to help Chicagoans get covered. Don’t miss out—tune in to find out how to navigate the Marketplace! Visit https://getcovered.illinois.gov/ to learn more.

As the 2025 respiratory virus season ramps up, Illinois and Chicago health leaders share what you need to know to stay protected.On this episode, Dr. Alexander Sloboda (CDPH’s Medical Director of Immunization and Emergency Preparedness Programs) sits down with CDPH Commissioner Dr. Olusimbo Ige and Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) Director Dr. Sameer Vohra to talk about recommended guidance for flu, COVID, and RSV vaccines; potential confusion around immunizations; and how everyone – with or without insurance – can be protected this fall and winter.TLDR: CDPH endorses IDPH’s vaccine recommendations for the 2025-26 respiratory illness season. CDPH provides updated 2025-26 flu and COVID-19 vaccines at no cost to Chicago residents at our standing Immunization Walk-In Clinics (https://chi.gov/4noLali), as well as mobile and pop-up events across the city.To stay informed:Keep an eye on CDPH’s public Respiratory Virus dashboard, summarizing COVID, flu, and RSV activity levels in Chicago on a weekly basis.Check out IDPH’s Immunizations Hub for crucial statewide resources and guidance: https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/immunization.html

En las últimas semanas, los casos de mpox han aumentado en la ciudad. ¿Sabes cuáles son los síntomas a los que debes estar atento y qué hacer si crees que te contagiaste?En este episodio, hablamos con el Dr. Jorge Cestou, Director de la Oficina de Enfermedades Infecciosas Sindémicas de CDPH. Él nos explica cómo se transmite este virus, que no es solo de transmisión sexual, sino que también puede contagiarse por contacto piel a piel con una persona infectada.Además, nos cuenta dónde aparecen los síntomas y por qué las dos dosis de la vacuna contra el mpox son la mejor protección que tienen las personas con mayor riesgo a ser contagiadas.Si notas una ampolla o una erupción, lo mejor es acudir al médico cuanto antes para cuidar tu salud.

This is the most calming episode of Healthy Chicago Podcast to date. Join us for a conversation and interactive demo with Healing Arts participating artist, Mecca Perry (of Mecca Elevated).Healing Arts is a program run by Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and CDPH, in which local artists lead free art-based sessions at the city’s mental health clinics. The classes are open to the public and encourage the connection of arts, health, healing, and wellness.On this episode, Mecca leads a truncated demonstration of one of her soothing sound meditation classes, beginning at 10:05. So, pull out your mat, lay down, close your eyes, and open your ears. Learn more and sign up for free Healing Arts classes for the recently launched Fall Session: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/healing_arts.htmlFind more about Mecca-Web: meccaelevated.comIG: meccaelevated Linkedin: mecca-perry Email: [email protected]

En este episodio, exploramos cómo la atención médica basada en refugios —es decir, cuando el personal de salud acude directamente a estos espacios— ayuda a romper barreras, mejora la comunicación entre profesionales de la salud, las personas que reciben atención y el personal del refugio, y ofrece un trato más humano y digno.Conversamos con Lawndale Christian Health Center: la doctora Mary Westerholm, médica internista y pediatra, y María Ruiz, subgerente de la organización. Ellas nos comparten cómo este modelo de atención no solo facilita el acceso al sistema de salud, sino que promueve el bienestar desde un enfoque en el que tener un lugar donde vivir es tan importante como recibir atención médica.Acompáñanos y descubre por qué llevar la salud directamente a donde están las personas puede transformar vidas.

To discuss Penicillin Allergy Awareness Day (September 28), Star Cervantes (Antibiotic Stewardship Pharmacist with CDPH) connects with Dr. Ruchi Singla, a board-certified Allergist-Immunologist from the University of Chicago, to discuss allergies, how they can change over one's lifetime, and how best to approach antimicrobial stewardship.Learn more with helpful resources from—American Academy of Allergy Asthma and ImmunologyCDC Clinical Features of Penicillin AllergyFind an allergist

Este año, el virus del Nilo Occidental llegó a Chicago antes de lo habitual. Desde mayo, se han detectado mosquitos portadores del virus con más frecuencia que en temporadas anteriores.El virus del Nilo Occidental se transmite únicamente a través de la picadura de mosquitos infectados — no se contagia de persona a persona. La mayoría de las personas infectadas no presentan síntomas, pero aproximadamente 1 de cada 5 puede experimentar fiebre y síntomas similares a los de la gripe. En casos más graves, puede causar inflamación del cerebro, especialmente en personas mayores de 60 años o con el sistema inmunológico comprometido.En este episodio, te contamos lo que necesitas saber para protegerte y cómo el Depto de Salud está actuando ante este riesgo de salud pública.

QPR stands for Question, Persuade and Refer and is a recognized approach that trains everyday people from all walks of life to recognize suicide warning signs, take immediate steps to mitigate risk of a suicide attempt, and make referrals to competent professional care. QPR training is one way to build community, connectedness, and knowledge to understand the issues concerning suicide and mental health, help others in crisis, and change the conversation around suicide.On this episode, two certified QPR gatekeeper instructors – Patricia Johnson (Public Health Administrator III, CDPH) and Eva Terry (Public Health Administrator III, CDPH) – and a CDPH partner who received QPR – Gabrielle Going (Program Manager of Community Outreach & Engagement, Alliancecare360.org) – share their stories of impact, outcomes, and lessons learned from their first year of involvement with the program.Find out more at https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/cdph/supp_info/behavioral-health/cdph-suicide-prevention-initiative.html

Shelter-based care is a CDPH-funded program that partners with Lawndale Chistian Health Center to provide healthcare, substance use treatment, and mental health services to persons experiencing homelessness in shelters and drop-in centers across the city. Christian Zamarriego (Projects Administration in Behavioral Health Bureau with CDPH) speaks with Dr. Tom Huggett (Medical Director – Mobile Health, Lawndale Christian Health Center) about the context for shelter-based care, how the services provided might differ from those in a traditional hospital setting, and why this program is important.

En este episodio honramos la valiosa labor de los promotores de salud, quienes no solo educan sobre la prevención de enfermedades, sino que también ayudan a navegar el sistema médico y conectan a los residentes con los servicios de salud.Su trabajo ha sido esencial en muchos momentos, especialmente durante la llegada de recién llegados a los albergues de la ciudad, donde ofrecieron orientación en temas de salud, actuaron como traductores y explicaron la importancia de las vacunas, ayudando así a prevenir contagios y consecuencias mayores.Evelyn Arias, quien es una promotora de salud, nos comparte sus experiencias, aprendizajes y lo que significa para ella ser promotora de salud en su comunidad y la importancia que tiene su rol de estar cerca de las necesidades de la gente. Enlace: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/cdph/provdrs/healthy_communities.html

In celebration of Community Health Worker Week, Seliciano Douthard (Public Health Administrator III, CDPH) sits down with Mario Scott, a dedicated Response Corps community health worker (CHW) who wears many hats to meet the changing needs of his community. From administering Narcan to connecting residents with vital resources or even helping someone feel confident with a fresh haircut, community assistance is available. Mario shares how CHWs play a crucial role in bridging gaps and supporting health equity every day.For resources and to find what CDPH is doing in the space of Community Health, visit: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/cdph/provdrs/healthy_communities.html

¿Sabías que en nuestras clínicas de salud mental ofrecemos un programa gratuito de artes? En este episodio en español la artista Natalia Cuevas nos cuenta cómo los talleres de pintura, cerámica, escritura, yoga, meditación y más, te apoyan en tu bienestar emocional. Descubre cómo artistas y terapeutas trabajan juntos para crear sesiones llenas de comunidad que fomentan conexiones reales y ayudan a desarrollar nuevas habilidades.Las clases son gratuitas y abiertas para todos en nuestros centros de salud mental.Además, te invitamos al Simposio Healing Arts, el 30 de agosto en Malcolm X College. Un evento gratuito para compartir arte y salud mental con familia y amigos. Descubre todo esto y más en este episodio.

Kathy Calderon (Director of Behavioral Health Operations at CDPH) speaks with Jackie Hoffman, Founder and Executive Director of Peace Runners, about why he started the health and wellness nonprofit organization and the positive benefits he and his community have experienced through exercise.When Hoffman overheard a concerning update from his mother’s doctor–one that underscored the racial life expectancy gap of his community–he knew he needed to take action. Now, the Peace Runners are addressing health risks and mental health in tangible, impactful ways.In 2024, the program saw over 1,100 runners participate in 5K runs or walks, 187 people ran half marathons, and 43 participated in the Chicago Marathon. Peace Runners offer a broad range of exercise programs from yoga and strength sessions to in-person walks and runs for age groups ranging from youth to 60+ year olds. The organization can be found every Saturday morning at 9:15 a.m. at the Gold Dome in Garfield Park for a 1-mile walk and 2-mile fun run.Learn more at https://peacerunners773.com/

El regreso a clases está a la vuelta de la esquina, y las vacunas juegan un papel fundamental para asegurar un regreso a clases seguro y saludable. En este episodio, Whitney Bellido y Ariel Ornelas, enfermeras del programa de inmunización de CDPH, nos explican cuáles son las vacunas que los padres deben asegurarse de que sus hijos tengan antes de empezar el ciclo escolar, los requisitos de vacunación, cómo es una cita en nuestras clínicas y qué consejos pueden ayudar a que los niños no tengan miedo al recibir sus vacunas.Lo más importante que no te puedes perder: las fechas y lugares de los próximos eventos de vacunación para el regreso a clases, donde también habrá actividades para niños, entrega de útiles escolares y muchos servicios más.Para más información de las clínicas de CDPH o conocer más sobre los eventos, visita: Chicago.gov/covidvax

It’s a real scorcher! Dr. Brian Borah (Medical Director for Vaccine-Preventable Diseases Surveillance) and Dr. Alexander Sloboda (Medical Director overseeing Immunizations and Emergency Preparedness with CDPH) talk about hot weather, heat-related illness, and what everyone can do to stay safe and healthy this summer.What are some heat-related symptoms to look out for?👉 Cramps, dehydration, tiredness, fatigue, headaches, nausea, blacking out, confusion, slurred speech.How can you stay safe and avoid these conditions this summer?👉 Stay hydrated – drink lots of water, and avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sodas.👉 Stay inside, if you do not have air conditioning, keep shades drawn and blinds closed, but windows slightly open.👉 Keep electric lights off or turned down.👉 Minimize use of your oven and stove.👉 Wear loose, light, cotton clothing.👉 Take cool baths and showers.👉 Do not leave anyone (including pets) in a parked car, even for a few minutes.👉 Check in on relatives and neighbors, including during the evening and nighttime hours.👉 If needed, take shelter at city cooling centers, libraries and park district facilities, or a friend or relative’s home that has air conditioning.👉 If you or someone near you experiences acute symptoms or loses consciousness, call 9-1-1 and seek a cool indoor location right away.Learn more with our Heat Preparedness one-pager.

Las olas de calor son periodos de al menos tres días consecutivos con temperaturas anormalmente altas en una región específica. Chicago no ha estado exenta de este fenómeno meteorológico, por lo que es fundamental saber qué hacer cuando se presenta una ola de calor, cómo cuidar a las poblaciones más vulnerables—como personas de la tercera edad, mujeres embarazadas o con alguna condición crónica de salud—y cómo identificar los síntomas del golpe de calor o del agotamiento por calor.En este episodio, exploramos junto a José Gonzalez, Coordinador de la Gestión del Manejo de Emergencias en el Departamento de Salud Pública de Chicago, los puntos más importantes que debes conocer sobre estos eventos de temperaturas extremas: dónde están ubicados los centros de enfriamiento en la ciudad y cómo marcar al 3-1-1 puede ayudarte a encontrar un lugar seguro para resguardarte o solicitar una revisión de bienestar para un familiar o vecino.

Janna Kerins (Veterinarian and Epidemiologist, Lead for the Communicable Diseases Response at CDPH) speaks with Claudia Blanco (Lead for the Vector Control Program with CDPH) about vectors, West Nile Virus, what the city does to prevent vector-borne diseases in general, and how you can protect yourself from mosquito bites this summer.Some tips on what you can do:Wear long sleeves, long pants, and socksWear repellent w/ DEET, Picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptusEliminate standing and stagnant water (in your gutters, kiddie pools, etc.)Keep grass trimmed and remove weedsRepair holes in screen doors and windowsLearn more at cityofchicago.org/mosquitoes

Saleshea Peterson runs a nonprofit organization, Hug A Child, which focuses on victim services for survivors of gun and domestic violence in Chicago. Peterson and Hug A Child are part of the Gun Violence Survivors Leadership Network, an advisory group of community leaders who are survivors of and have been impacted by violence.For victim and survivor resources.

¿Sabías que tú y tu familia podrían estar expuestos al plomo en tu propio hogar sin saberlo? Debido a que Chicago cuenta con muchas viviendas construidas antes de 1978 - año en el que se prohibieron las pinturas a base de plomo - es probable que se haya utilizado este tipo de pintura, lo que representa un riesgo para la salud de quienes habitan en ellas.Hablamos con Guadalupe Alcázar, enfermera del CDPH, sobre los síntomas más comunes del envenenamiento por plomo en niños, su detección temprana y los pasos a seguir una vez confirmado el diagnóstico.También conversamos con Sergio Vera, inspector de viviendas del CDPH, quien nos explica cómo su equipo detecta la presencia de plomo en los hogares, cómo se aseguran de que las familias vivan en espacios saludables, y qué recomendaciones ofrecen a los padres para prevenir la exposición.CDPH ofrece inspecciones domiciliarias de forma gratuita. Puedes solicitarlas llamando al (312) 747-5323.

El estrés es una respuesta natural a situaciones que nos generan frustración, enojo o nerviosismo. Pero, ¿cómo puede afectar nuestra salud mental y cuándo es momento de buscar ayuda profesional? En nuestro último episodio del podcast de Healthy Chicago, Daisy Gómez, terapeuta y fundadora de Encuéntrate Counseling and Consulting, explica los factores que pueden detonar el estrés; como el trabajo, la tecnología, las redes sociales o el desempleo- y cómo el ejercicio, una buena alimentación y el descanso pueden ayudarnos a manejarlo.

Desiree Kettler (Operations Lead at the Community Safety Coordination Center with CDPH) speaks with Sendy Soto, Chicago’s Chief Homelessness Officer, about the path to creating an office focused on homelessness, the inspirations working with those in need in our community, and solutions to housing insecurity and homelessness.

Pauline Sylvain-Lewis of Phalanx Family Services and Amina Brooks from Far South Chicago Coalition talk about their organizations, successes and challenges, the needs and concerns of their communities, and how to affect change.Phalanx Family Services is an agency that specializes in workforce development and mentorship in the community. During the pandemic, the company expanded into involvement with CDPH, youth services, and additional community engagement, especially as part of the My Chi My Future group.Far South Chicago Coalition rose from the vision of Dr. Joyce Chapman and other community members to specialize in community engagement, economic and workforce development, furthering education, and establishing a Quality of Life Plan.

¿Te ha pasado que tu cuerpo reacciona de forma inesperada al probar un nuevo perfume, mudarte de casa o simplemente pedir algo diferente en un restaurante? Podría tratarse de una alergia… y tal vez ni siquiera sabías que eras alérgico.En este episodio conversamos con Virginia Morgan, enfermera especializada en medicina familiar de OSF HealthCare, quien nos explica qué son las alergias, cómo se desarrollan y qué métodos existen para saber si eres alérgico a algo.También hablamos sobre el asma: cómo diferenciarlo de una alergia, cómo detectarlo a tiempo y cuáles son las mejores formas de manejarlo. Todo esto en el marco del mes de concientización sobre las alergias y el asma, que se celebra en mayo.

Mervin Dino, Assistant Commissioner at CDPH, speaks with Anusha Thotakura, Executive Director at Citizen Action Illinois, and Timothy Jackson, Senior Director of Policy and Advocacy with AIDS Foundation of Chicago, about the current state of Medicaid and how advocates have joined forces through Protect Our Care Illinois to respond to proposed changes at the federal level.If you’re wondering if or why you should care about this discussion: You likely know or are someone who utilizes Medicaid, as it provides health coverage for millions of Americans and nearly 1 million Chicagoans. Changes to Medicaid could affect you or your loved ones, and this conversation is a starting point for what you should know and what you can do to get involved and help Chicagoans during this period.For more information on Protect Our Care Illinois, please visit Protect Our Care IL.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Commissioner Ige and Jonathan Hart (Owner and Design Director of Bigmouth Creative) discuss mental health, tips and strategies to promote one’s well-being, and the behavioral health resources available to all Chicagoans.It is okay to acknowledge that you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or otherwise down. Some options and resources available to all in Chicago include—CDPH has mental health clinics that are free of charge.Healing Arts hosts free, year-round creative classes and workshops that support mental health and wellness. These sessions include yoga, sound & body meditation, music, painting, poetry, writing, and more. Sign up now.If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call or chat 9-8-8 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 24*7.

Se avecinan recortes en el programa de Beneficios de Salud para Adultos Inmigrantes (HBIA), una situación que podría dejar a cerca de 33,000 residentes de Illinois sin cobertura médica cuando los cambios entren en vigor el 1 de julio de este año.En este episodio, Enddy Almonord, directora de la organización Healthy Illinois, nos habla sobre la campaña que están llevando a cabo para defender el derecho a la salud de las comunidades inmigrantes. También explica cómo estos programas benefician a dichas comunidades y destaca los recursos disponibles que las personas pueden utilizar.Además, discutimos los posibles cambios a nivel federal que podrían afectar el programa de Medicaid. En nuestra ciudad, esto podría impactar a un tercio de la población.Los residentes que estén en riesgo de perder su cobertura, pueden acudir a los centros de salud comunitaria y clínicas gratuitas o de bajo costo, sin importar el estatus migratorio o capacidad de pagar. Además, pueden llamar al 2-1-1 para acceder a servicios de salud y servicios sociales en su área.

When individuals return home from carceral spaces, they are at risk of returning to communities experiencing high rates of violence and offering limited career opportunities. Joseph Mapp, Director for the Mayor’s Office of Reentry, was system-impacted and began his journey of transformation through higher education opportunities while incarcerated. He continued educational pursuits post-release, building on the foundation developed inside, and credits community support as a critical factor in developing his leadership and career skills.He joins Greg Martinez, Community Safety Coordination Center, to discuss how Chicago’s Office of Reentry is creating opportunities and support for returning Chicagoans.

El sarampión es una enfermedad viral altamente contagiosa que se transmite por el aire al toser, estornudar o incluso al hablar. Aunque muchos creen que es una enfermedad del pasado, en los últimos años han surgido nuevos brotes en distintas partes del mundo, incluyendo Estados Unidos. Se estima que una sola persona infectada puede llegar a contagiar entre 9 y 10 personas si no están vacunadas.En este episodio, conversamos con Virginia Morgan, enfermera de medicina familiar de OSF Healthcare, quien nos explica qué es el sarampión, los síntomas más comunes y nos habla de la importancia de la vacuna.

13 years ago, Maria Pike’s son was shot and killed while parking in Logan Square. Today, she is a powerful advocate for survivors of gun violence and a passionate supporter for community engagement and community violence intervention (CVI) in Chicago.Pike is one of the founding members of the city's Gun Violence Survivors Leadership Network, a cohort of community leaders who are gun violence survivors working to end gun violence and its harmful effects throughout the city.If you are a survivor of violence or want to get involved in helping with victim services, visit https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/cscc/home/vicitms-and-survivors.html

De acuerdo con la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS), seis personas por minuto se salvan de morir gracias a la vacunación, una tendencia que se ha mantenido durante las últimas cinco décadas. Las vacunas salvan vidas. En el marco de la Semana Mundial de la Inmunización, que se conmemora la última semana de abril, en el episodio más reciente del podcast en español de Healthy Chicago, conversamos con Whitney Bellido, enfermera de las clínicas de inmunización de CDPH. Whitney nos habla sobre la importancia de las vacunas, su efectividad, y aclara algunos de los mitos más comunes en torno a ellas.Para consultar ubicaciones y horarios de las clínicas de inmunización del CDPH, visita: chicago.gov/covidvax

How is Chicago supporting the health of Black women and their babies?During Black Maternal Health Week, Commissioner Olusimbo Ige is joined in conversation by Monica Mitchell of CDPH and Hailey Steele from EverThrive Illinois to discuss the disparities Black women and their babies experience during pregnancy and postpartum, and the resources available to pregnant people in the city.EverThrive is a reproductive justice nonprofit organization with the goal of elevating the voice of those most impacted by health injustices. Steele talks about the findings her organization made through focus groups on the South and West sides of Chicago and the need for education and advocacy tools to help pregnant individuals and their children in disinvested communities.CDPH employs programs such as Family Connects Chicago (no-cost postpartum home checkups), WIC (nutrition, lactation support), and MAR (medication-assisted recovery for those experiencing substance use disorders).