Month: November 2023

Understanding the Difference: Common Cold vs. Flu

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family with common cold

As the seasons change, seasonal illnesses like the common cold and influenza often increase, often leaving many unsure whether they’re battling a cold or the flu. In the 11 cities and towns that make up the Uncas Health District, understanding the differences between these ailments becomes crucial for timely treatment and prevention.

Symptoms

  • Common Cold:
    • Onset: Symptoms generally develop gradually.
    • Nasal Congestion: A runny or stuffy nose is a common symptom.
    • Sore Throat: Mild to moderate discomfort in the throat.
    • Sneezing and Coughing: Frequent sneezing and a mild, hacking cough are typical.
    • Mild Fatigue: Feeling tired or rundown may occur but is usually manageable.
  • Influenza (Flu):
    • Sudden Onset: Symptoms often hit abruptly and severely.
    • Fever: High fever (typically above 100.4°F or 38°C) is common and can last for several days.
    • Muscle Aches: Severe body aches and pains, sometimes affecting the entire body.
    • Fatigue: Overwhelming tiredness and weakness are typical and can last for weeks.
    • Dry Cough: A persistent and often severe cough is common.

chart demonstrating differences between a cold and the flu

Differentiating Between Cold and Flu

  • Fever: While it’s possible to have a low-grade fever with a cold, higher fevers are more indicative of the flu.
  • Intensity of Symptoms: The flu tends to make you feel significantly more unwell compared to a common cold.
  • Duration: Colds usually last for about a week, while the flu can persist for longer periods, leaving you fatigued for weeks.

Seeking Medical Attention

If you suspect you have the flu, especially if you are at high risk for complications (children, the elderly, or those with underlying health conditions), it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional promptly. 

Preventative Measures

  • Vaccination: Yearly flu shots can significantly reduce your risk of contracting the flu.
  • Hygiene Practices: Regular handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals can prevent the spread of both illnesses.

Understanding the differences between the common cold and influenza can drive appropriate health actions. By recognizing symptoms and taking preventative measures, individuals can navigate flu season with greater awareness and safeguard themselves against cold and flu.

Remember, while this information serves as a guide, consulting a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment is crucial if you’re experiencing severe symptoms or are at high risk for complications.

For more information on differentiating the common cold from influenza, please visit: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/coldflu.htm#

For a listing of Uncas Health District Flu Shot Clinics and other events, please click here.

 

 

 

Free COVID-19 Tests Available Again

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several boxes of COVID-19 tests

Every home in the U.S. is now eligible to receive an additional four (4) free at-home COVID-19 rapid tests — delivered directly to their home. Those who did not order tests this fall may place two orders for a total of eight (8) tests.

Ordering COVID-19 tests through covid.gov/tests is completely free – including shipping.

Expired Tests

Before You Throw Out “Expired” Tests: Check FDA’s website to see if your COVID-19 tests’ expiration dates have been extended.

Uncas Health District Offering Flu Vaccine Clinics Throughout December

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young girl gets flu shot

Uncas Health District will be offering a number of Flu Vaccine Clinics throughout December.

 

Mondays in December (except Dec. 25)

12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Please call (860) 823-1189 to make an appointment.

 

Tuesday, December 26 + Thursday, December 28

12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Walk-ins accepted. No appointment necessary. 

 

 

flu vccine clinic poster

 

Food Safety Tips for Thanksgiving Dinner and Leftovers

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woman prepares a turkey

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and, of course, food. However, with all the excitement of the holiday, it’s important to remember food safety practices to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable meal.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), food-borne illnesses are a common and significant public health problem in the United States. Each year, an estimated 48 million Americans get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die from foodborne diseases.

Prevention is Key

The good news is that food-borne illnesses can be prevented by following proper food safety practices. Here are some key tips to keep in mind when preparing and serving Thanksgiving dinner:

Clean

  • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling raw meat, poultry, or seafood.

  • Wash all produce under running water, even if you plan to peel it.

  • Clean and sanitize all surfaces that will come into contact with food, such as countertops, cutting boards, and utensils.

Separate

  • Keep raw meat, poultry, and seafood separate from other foods to prevent cross-contamination.

  • Use different cutting boards for raw meat, poultry, seafood, and produce.

Cook

  • Cook all meat, poultry, and seafood to the proper internal temperature. Use a food thermometer to check for doneness.

  • The safe internal temperatures are:

    • Ground meats: 160°F

    • Ground poultry: 165°F

    • Whole poultry: 165°F (breast, thigh, and stuffing)

    • Beef, pork, lamb, and veal steaks, chops, and roasts: 145°F with a 3-minute rest

    • Seafood: 145°F

Chill

  • Refrigerate leftovers promptly within two hours of cooking.

  • Store leftovers in shallow containers to allow them to cool quickly.

  • Cover leftovers tightly to prevent them from drying out or absorbing odors.

Storing + Reheating Leftovers Leftovers

Proper storage of leftovers is essential to prevent food-borne illnesses. Here are some guidelines for storing Thanksgiving leftovers:

  • Turkey: Cooked turkey can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

  • Stuffing: Cooked stuffing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

  • Mashed potatoes: Mashed potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

  • Gravy: Gravy can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

  • Desserts: Pies and cakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

When reheating leftovers, it’s important to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F. Use a food thermometer to check for doneness.

Freezing Leftovers

For longer storage, leftovers can be frozen. Here are some guidelines for freezing Thanksgiving leftovers:

  • Turkey: Cooked turkey can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

  • Stuffing: Cooked stuffing can be frozen for up to 1-2 months.

  • Mashed potatoes: Mashed potatoes can be frozen for up to 1-2 months.

  • Gravy: Gravy can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

  • Desserts: Pies and cakes can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

By following these simple food safety guidelines, you can help ensure that your Thanksgiving dinner is not only delicious but also safe for everyone to enjoy.

DPH Confirms Connecticut’s First Flu and RSV Deaths of Season

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Flu under a microscope

The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed the first deaths of state residents due to influenza (flu) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) for the 2023-24 respiratory viral disease season. The influenza death occurred in an adult resident, 80-89 years old, from Middlesex County, and the RSV death occurred in an adult resident, 80-89 years old, from New Haven County. No other information on these patients will be released.

During October, 67 COVID-19-associated deaths have also been reported in Connecticut residents. Historically, in Connecticut, most deaths from COVID-19 have been among people aged 55 and older.

“This is a tragic reminder that the 2023-24 respiratory viral disease season is already an active one. As we approach the holidays, I strongly encourage all Connecticut residents to make sure they are up to date on their seasonal vaccines, particularly older individuals and those with multiple medical conditions,” said DPH Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD. “Even if you have had COVID before and have been previously vaccinated, our immunity dwindles over time. Getting vaccinated this fall will help you protect yourself and other members of your family as we enter the holiday season. In addition, preventing illnesses, even if they might have been mild infections, will help keep our children in school and adults at work. A healthier society at large will help all of us live our best lives.”

The current vaccine guidance to prevent respiratory viral diseases is:

  • Everyone 6 months of age or older should receive an annual dose of influenza vaccine.
  • Everyone 6 months of age or older should receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine.
  • Adults 60 and older and pregnant people are eligible to receive an RSV vaccine (Abrysvo). A monoclonal antibody, Nirsevimab (Beyfortus), is recommended for all infants younger than 8 months of age who are born during—or who are entering—RSV season.
  • The spread of respiratory viruses like the flu, COVID-19, and RSV can also be prevented through proper respiratory virus etiquette. These practices include hand-washing, remaining home when sick, disinfecting surfaces, and masking if you have any respiratory symptoms.
  • Residents can receive their vaccines from their healthcare provider, a retail pharmacy, or by visiting vaccines.gov to find a vaccination location near you. Additionally, DPH and the Connecticut Immunization Coalition are partnering with local health departments throughout the state on numerous vaccine clinics for children and adults. The entire schedule of local health clinics can be accessed at https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/aWVXd/5/.

More information about respiratory viral diseases is available at https://portal.ct.gov/DPH/Infectious-Diseases/RVD/Respiratory-Viral-Disease-Surveillance.

Influenza Resources from Uncas Health District

#LungCancerAwarenessMonth: Lung Cancer Screening Can Save Lives

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doctor reviews ct scan of lungs

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women in the United States. It is estimated that more than 130,000 Americans will die from lung cancer in 2023.

Smoking is the leading risk factor for lung cancer, causing between 80-90% of all cases. Other risk factors include exposure to secondhand smoke, radon, and asbestos.

Lung cancer is often diagnosed late when it is more difficult to treat. However, there is now a low-dose CT scan that can be used to screen for lung cancer in high-risk individuals.

The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends annual lung cancer screening with low-dose CT scans for adults aged 50 to 80 who have a 20-pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.

Why is lung cancer screening important?

Lung cancer screening can help find lung cancer early when it is most treatable. Early detection can lead to better outcomes and longer survival rates.

For example, a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that lung cancer screening with low-dose CT scans reduced the risk of dying from lung cancer by 20%.

Who should get screened for lung cancer?

The USPSTF recommends lung cancer screening for adults aged 50 to 80 who have a 20-pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.

A pack-year is a measure of cumulative smoking exposure. It is calculated by multiplying the number of packs of cigarettes smoked per day by the number of years smoked. For example, a person who smoked one pack of cigarettes per day for 20 years would have a 20-pack-year smoking history.

How does lung cancer screening work?

Lung cancer screening is a low-dose CT scan of the chest. The scan is quick and painless, and it takes only a few minutes.

The scan images are reviewed by a radiologist who looks for any suspicious areas that may be lung cancer. If a suspicious area is found, the radiologist may recommend further testing, such as a biopsy.

Smoking cessation programs

If you smoke, the best way to reduce your risk of lung cancer is to quit. Quitting smoking is not easy, but there are many resources available to help you.

Smoking cessation programs can provide you with support and guidance as you quit. These programs may offer counseling, nicotine replacement therapy, or other medications to help you manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

Lung cancer is a serious disease, but it is often preventable. If you smoke or used to smoke and are between 50 and 80 years old, talk to your doctor about getting screened for lung cancer.

Quitting smoking is the best thing you can do to reduce your risk of lung cancer. If you need help quitting, there are many resources available to you.

Tobacco Cessation Programs from Uncas Health District

Additional Resources

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