As the Infection Prevention Nurse for Harrington Hospital, my primary responsibilities are to prevent healthcare acquired infections and the spread of communicable diseases. A seat on the Board of Health would be a way to bring my experience in infection prevention to Sterling as we work toward building a healthy community.
The local board of health and Mass Department of Public Health are my partners, along with federal agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control. Over the years we have seen many new challenges as communicable diseases that were once eradicated are now returning, such as TB, measles and pertussis. Seasonal outbreaks of influenza and norovirus can also affect the health of a community, and there are foodborne illnesses such as salmonella and E.coli 157 that are of great concern.
Septic systems and Title 5 compliance are important, but board of health obligations are much broader. The Sterling 2014 BOH annual report states: “Mass Boards of Health are responsible and have statutory obligations under Mass General Laws, for state and local regulation, disease prevention and control, health and environmental protection and promoting a healthy community.”
Currently, all board members and a health agent are well educated in septic systems, but there is not a medical professional on the board. I feel that for a board to be effective not everyone should have the same skill set.
If elected, I will be able to bring important health issues forward for BOH discussion, assist with mandatory DPH reporting, help in 120 required food inspections, provide education, and handle septic and water quality issues. I would be honored to have your vote on May 11.
Sue Valentine
27 Gibbons Drive