What to know
The Florida Tracking Program tracks diseases that may be related to environmental exposures and provides data on environmental hazards and associated health outcomes. The purpose of these efforts is to inform communities about disease trends and to design interventions that lead to better health outcomes.
Accomplishments
Helping Identify Communities at Risk for Zika
During the 2016 Zika outbreak, Florida Tracking developed a mapping application for county health departments. Tracking staff mapped census tracts with a risk score. The risk score was based on data previously identified from a 2011 Florida dengue study. During times of active Zika virus transmission, county health departments used this mapping application to identify areas with high-risk populations. They then focused outreach events and testing in those areas.
Helping Reduce Exposure to Arsenic from Well Water
Florida Tracking and the Florida Department of Health in Hernando County conducted a year-long study on arsenic exposure from well water. The study focused on “hot spot” areas that had a higher risk of exposure.
They looked at whether using filters on kitchen water faucets could reduce a person's exposure to arsenic. Study results confirmed that using filters is an effective way to reduce exposure to elevated levels of arsenic.
To help raise awareness of arsenic exposure and the need for testing private wells, FL Tracking:
- worked with multiple county media outlets.
- developed fact sheets and educational materials for well owners.
- wrote an easy-to-read final report for well owners and partners.
Unique Data
All state and local tracking programs collect and display a set of standard data. But individual programs may host other data that are important to their populations. Florida's unique data include the following.
Resources and tools
Aggregation Tool: Combine geographies of interest (counties or zip codes) across the state to create custom counts and crude rates. Community partners and researchers can see a data snapshot of neighborhoods and communities.
Economic Hardship Index: This is a comprehensive measure of economic conditions using six indicators from the 2014 five-year American Community Survey. Indicators include unemployment, dependency, lack of education, lack of adequate income, crowded housing, and below poverty level.
Local Resources:
Consuming Fish Safely: Resources including the Hooked & Hooked 2 recipe books. These books promote safe fish consumption by featuring recipes that use low-mercury fish.
Video Library: A variety of health and environmental topics, including heat awareness, green spaces, and asthma.
Educational Infographics: Available in English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole.