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January jobs report: Unemployment rate falls to 4%, wages rise more than forecast; Trump signs order imposing sanctions on International Criminal Court over investigations of Israel; Ten Commandments in public schools debate reaches South Dakota; Virginia ranks among worst states for wage theft; Mexican long-nosed bat makes appearance in Arizona.

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Attorney General Pam Bondi strikes a Trump tone at the Justice Department, federal workers get more time to consider buyouts, and an unclassified email request from the White House worries CIA vets.

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During Black History Month, a new book shares how a unique partnership built 5,000 schools for Black students, anti-hunger advocates say ag communities would benefit from an expanded SNAP program, and Americans have $90 billion in unpaid medical bills.

Expert: Tips for MS children to stay safe during the summer

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Wednesday, July 17, 2024   

As summer heats up in Mississippi, paying close attention to children is essential to keep them safe, cool and healthy while they enjoy the outdoors.

The summer months between 2019 and 2021 saw an average of more than 4,000 accidental deaths across the country of kids ages 14 and younger, according to a report from Safe Kids Worldwide.

Elizabeth Foster, community outreach project manager at Children's of Mississippi, the University of Mississippi's children's hospital, said summer is risky for kids, as they are more likely to be unsupervised.

"We see a spike in all unintentional injuries and fatalities but primarily in those that are related to a lot of outdoor activities: ATV, heatstroke, children outside playing and bike safety," Foster outlined. "It's just because children are not within the confines of the schoolhouse, where there's a lot of structure."

She noted Mississippi ranks the highest among states for unintentional child deaths during summer months, followed closely by Wyoming and Louisiana.

Foster warned of increased dangers for children, from being left in hot cars to firearm accidents. Drownings are also a silent threat, and she emphasized constant supervision at pools, beaches and water parks.

"If your child is in the pool playing, you don't hear a child drowning," Foster pointed out. "As much as we'd like for parents to teach their child those lifesaving measures in the water, and get them swimming lessons and things like that, that's not always the case. That's not always accessible. So, it's the responsibility of those watching the children to be attentive."

She added Children's of Mississippi offers virtual care as an option for parents to meet with a health care professional. She said parents can schedule appointments through MyChart or directly through University of Mississippi Medical Center.

Dr. Donna O'Shea, chief medical Officer of population health for UnitedHealthcare, said proper hydration is a key preventive measure people often overlook for summer-related health issues.

"For every 15 minutes of outdoor activity, you should drink about four ounces of water, which is like four big gulps," O'Shea recommended. "Or the other way, if it's easier to think of it, to drink 16 ounces of water an hour, depending on your activity level."

O'Shea suggested skipping sodas and sports drinks and choosing something healthier during outdoor activities. She also emphasized the importance of sun protection, including sunscreen, sunglasses and protective clothing.

Disclosure: UnitedHealthcare contributes to our fund for reporting on Health Issues. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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