Uncas Health District

Uncas Health District Homebound Program Provides At-Home Vaccines

by
woman receiving vaccine at home

For many people, getting a flu shot or COVID-19 vaccine is as simple as visiting their local pharmacy or doctor’s office. But for some, mobility challenges or health conditions make leaving home difficult, if not impossible. To meet the needs of these individuals, Uncas Health District proudly offers a homebound vaccine program — a crucial service ensuring that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has access to potentially life-saving vaccinations.

What Vaccines Are Offered?

Uncas Health District’s homebound vaccine program provides two essential vaccinations directly to homebound individuals:

  • Flu Vaccine: Available in both standard-dose and high-dose options, depending on patient needs.
  • Comirnaty (Pfizer) COVID-19 Vaccine: For protection against COVID-19.

Cost of Vaccinations

Flu Vaccines

For those covered by the following insurance providers, the flu vaccine is free:

  • Anthem BC/BS
  • Cigna
  • ConnectiCare
  • Medicare
  • TriCare
  • UnitedHealthCare

For individuals without insurance or with insurance not listed, the costs are:

  • Standard-dose flu vaccine: $20
  • High-dose flu vaccine: $65

COVID-19 Vaccines

The Comirnaty (Pfizer) COVID-19 vaccine is also covered by the above insurers. For uninsured individuals or those with non-participating insurance, the cost is $140.

How to Schedule an Appointment

If you or a loved one is homebound and in need of a flu or COVID-19 vaccine, contact Mary at Uncas Health District to schedule a convenient in-home appointment.

 

 

Recall Alert: USDA Issues Public Health Alert for Ready-To-Eat Cranberry Chicken Salad Products

by

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for chicken salad products labeled as Cranberry Chicken Salad due to misbranding and undeclared allergens. The product labeled as Cranberry Chicken Salad may actually contain Classic Chicken Salad, which contains wheat, a known allergen, that is not declared on the product label. FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers with allergies to wheat are aware that this product should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because the affected product is no longer available for purchase.

The Classic Chicken Salad labeled as Cranberry Chicken Salad was produced on September 30, 2024. The following products are subject to the public health alert [view labels]:

  • 12-oz. clear plastic packages containing “Cranberry Chicken Salad with white meat chicken” with a use-by date of 10/25/24.

The products subject to the public health alert bear establishment number “P-7573” printed on the top of the product label. These items were shipped to retail locations in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Jersey, and New York.

The problem was discovered when the establishment notified FSIS that it received a customer complaint that packages labeled as Cranberry Chicken Salad contained Classic Chicken Salad.

There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an illness should contact a healthcare provider.

FSIS is concerned that some product may be in consumers’ refrigerators. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

Members of the media with questions about the public health alert can contact Ricardo Alvarez, CEO, Hans Kissle, at 978-556-4500 Ext 215 or ralvarez@hanskissle.com. Consumers with questions can contact Katie Hatch, Customer Service Representative, Hans Kissle, at 978-556-4500 or customercomplaints@hanskissle.com.

Consumers with food safety questions can call the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854) or send a question via email to MPHotline@usda.gov. For consumers that need to report a problem with a meat, poultry, or egg product, the online Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System can be accessed 24 hours a day at https://foodcomplaint.fsis.usda.gov/eCCF/.

 

More Product Recalls

Join in the Fight Against Diabetes

by

November marks National Diabetes Awareness Month, but it’s not a time for celebration — it’s a time to rally. With diabetes affecting over 37 million Americans and growing every year, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) is leading the charge in the fight against this epidemic. This month is about coming together to uplift those living with diabetes and to support efforts that help prevent, manage, and ultimately, cure the disease.

Here’s how the ADA is making a difference and how you can get involved:

Educating and Empowering

The ADA is committed to providing critical education and programs that help prevent diabetes and empower those living with it to lead healthy, full lives. Through these resources, individuals can reduce their risk of complications and better manage their condition. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, at risk, or supporting a loved one, ADA’s resources are here to guide and support you.

Advocating for Affordable and Equitable Health Care

Advocacy is at the heart of ADA’s mission. The organization works at every level—local, state, and federal—to ensure that everyone living with diabetes has access to affordable, quality health care. No one should have to choose between managing their diabetes and paying the bills. The ADA is fighting to ensure that life-saving medications, like insulin, are accessible to all.

Advancing Research for a Cure

Research is the pathway to better treatments and, ultimately, a cure. The ADA continues to fund groundbreaking research and establish clinical guidelines that help advance diabetes care. From innovations in insulin delivery to potential cures, ADA-backed research is making strides toward changing the future of diabetes.

Inspiring Communities to Act

National Diabetes Awareness Month is also about action. The ADA encourages everyone to take part in the movement—whether it’s through donating, volunteering, or spreading awareness. By coming together, we can make a difference in our communities and for our loved ones. Every effort brings us one step closer to a future without diabetes.

How You Can Help

This November, join the movement. Educate yourself and others, advocate for policies that ensure equitable health care, support research through donations, and show solidarity with those living with diabetes. Together, we can push back against this epidemic and help those in need across America.

To learn more about how you can get involved, visit the American Diabetes Association’s website.

Let’s rally together this National Diabetes Awareness Month and work toward a world free of diabetes.

 

Find ADA Recognized Diabetes Education Programs in CT

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2024: The Importance of Screening and Early Detection

by
woman receiving mammogram

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2024: The Importance of Screening and Early Detection

Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting women in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), it is projected that 310,720 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in 2024, and 42,500 women are expected to die from the disease.

While these numbers are concerning, there is good news: early detection plays a critical role in improving survival rates. When breast cancer is detected early, is in the localized stage, and treated promptly, the five-year survival rate is 99%. This underscores the vital importance of regular breast cancer screenings.

Why is Breast Cancer Screening Important?

Breast cancer screening tests, such as mammograms, can detect the disease before symptoms develop, when the cancer is often smaller and has not spread. This early detection makes treatment more effective, less invasive, and can significantly improve outcomes.

For many women, timely screening could be the difference between a manageable condition and a more complicated diagnosis.

Who Should Get Screened?

The ACS recommends that women at average risk of breast cancer start receiving annual mammograms at age 40. Women considered at higher risk—such as those with a family history of breast cancer, certain genetic mutations (like BRCA1 or BRCA2), or other risk factors—may need to begin screenings earlier. It’s important to discuss your personal risk factors with your doctor.

How Often Should I Get Screened?

Most women should have a mammogram every year, according to the ACS guidelines. However, depending on your risk profile, your doctor may recommend a more frequent screening schedule or additional tests such as breast MRIs. Staying consistent with screening is essential for catching any potential issues early.

What Should I Do If I Find a Lump in My Breast?

If you detect a lump or notice any changes in your breasts, it’s crucial to see a healthcare provider promptly. While many breast lumps are not cancerous, only a professional evaluation can determine the cause and recommend the appropriate next steps.

How Can I Support Breast Cancer Awareness Month?

There are many ways you can get involved and help raise awareness:

  • Get screened for breast cancer, and encourage others to do the same.
  • Share information about the importance of screening with friends and family.
  • Donate to breast cancer research or organizations that provide support to patients and survivors.
  • Volunteer your time to local cancer charities or support groups.

By taking these steps, you can contribute to ongoing efforts to reduce breast cancer mortality and support those impacted by the disease.

More Facts About Breast Cancer

Fruit Flies: Why They’re Common in the Fall, the Health Risks They Pose, and Safe Ways to Get Rid of Them

by
fruit fly trap

As the weather cools and autumn sets in, many people notice an uptick in fruit flies buzzing around their homes. These tiny insects are more than just a nuisance — they thrive in the fall when ripe fruit, sugary drinks, and compost bins attract them in greater numbers. Understanding why fruit flies are so common during this season, the health risks they pose, and how to safely get rid of them can help you keep your home fly-free.

Why Fruit Flies Are Common in the Fall

Fruit flies, or Drosophila melanogaster, are attracted to fermenting fruit and vegetables, making fall an ideal season for them to thrive. During harvest time, produce is more readily available, and even the smallest piece of overripe fruit left on the counter can attract them. Warm homes with moist environments, such as drains, garbage disposals, and recycling bins, provide perfect conditions for these pests to multiply.

Fruit flies reproduce rapidly, laying hundreds of eggs on decaying organic matter. Within just a few days, those eggs hatch into larvae, turning a small infestation into a larger one in no time.

Health Risks Posed by Fruit Flies

While fruit flies aren’t directly harmful like mosquitoes or ticks, they do pose some health risks:

  1. Bacteria Contamination: Fruit flies are known to carry bacteria from one surface to another, particularly from garbage or spoiled food. This can result in contamination of kitchen counters, dishes, and fresh food.
  2. Foodborne Illnesses: Fruit flies may spread foodborne pathogens, such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria, which can cause illness if contaminated food is ingested.
  3. Respiratory Irritation: For individuals with asthma or respiratory sensitivities, a large number of fruit flies could potentially worsen symptoms due to the allergens they can introduce into the air.

Safe and Effective Ways to Get Rid of Fruit Flies

There are several safe and non-toxic ways to prevent and eliminate fruit flies from your home:

  1. Eliminate Attractants:
    • Store fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator, especially if they’re ripe or nearing overripe.
    • Regularly empty garbage bins and compost containers, ensuring that they are sealed tightly when in use.
    • Clean spills, particularly those involving sugary drinks, and remove any food debris from counters and floors.
  2. Vinegar Trap: One of the simplest ways to catch fruit flies is to set up a vinegar trap. Pour apple cider vinegar into a small dish, add a few drops of dish soap, and cover the top with plastic wrap, poking small holes in it. The flies are attracted to the vinegar, but the soap reduces the surface tension, causing them to drown.
  3. Red Wine Trap: Similar to the vinegar trap, fruit flies are attracted to the fermented sugars in red wine. Leave a small amount of red wine in a bottle or glass, cover it with plastic wrap, and poke holes in the top. This will trap the flies as they enter.
  4. Drain Maintenance: Since fruit flies often breed in drains, keep them clean by pouring boiling water or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain to remove food residue where eggs could be laid.
  5. Essential Oils: Certain essential oils, such as peppermint, lavender, and eucalyptus, can act as natural repellents. Dilute these oils in water and spray them in areas where fruit flies are prevalent, like around trash cans or countertops.

Fruit flies are a common but manageable problem in the fall. By understanding what attracts them and the potential health risks they carry, you can take effective, safe steps to get rid of them. Regularly cleaning your kitchen, storing produce properly, and using natural remedies like vinegar traps and essential oils will help keep your home fly-free as the cooler months approach.

If a fruit fly infestation persists despite these efforts, you may want to consider contacting a pest control professional for additional help.

Understanding RSV: How to Protect Your Child During Peak Season

by
young boy with a backpack coughing into his hand.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common and contagious virus that affects the respiratory system, especially in infants and young children. While it often presents as a mild cold, RSV can lead to severe complications in some cases, making it important for parents to be informed about when the virus is most prevalent, the symptoms to watch for, and how to protect their children, including the use of new vaccines.

When Is RSV Most Prevalent?

RSV circulates throughout the year but tends to spike in the fall and winter months. The virus typically thrives in colder weather, making October through March the most common time for RSV infections. This is also when children are back in school or daycare, increasing their exposure to germs in crowded settings.

The Potential Harms of RSV

For most children and adults, RSV causes mild, cold-like symptoms that resolve on their own. However, RSV can be more severe in certain groups, including:

  • Infants (especially those under six months)
  • Premature babies
  • Children with weakened immune systems
  • Children with underlying heart or lung conditions
  • Older adults, particularly those with underlying health conditions

In these high-risk groups, RSV can lead to serious health complications such as bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lungs) and pneumonia. RSV is one of the leading causes of hospitalization in infants under one year of age in the U.S.

Protecting Your Child from RSV

There are several measures parents can take to protect their children from RSV, including:

  1. Vaccination: RSV vaccines are available for infants and adults over 60. For babies, nirsevimab, an RSV monoclonal antibody, can be given to protect against severe RSV infection. This preventative treatment is recommended for infants, especially those at high risk for severe RSV. Speak to your pediatrician to determine whether this option is suitable for your child.

  2. Good Hygiene Practices: Since RSV spreads through direct contact and droplets, practicing good hygiene can significantly reduce the chances of infection. This includes:
    • Frequent hand-washing with soap and water.
    • Avoiding close contact with sick individuals.
    • Regularly cleaning and disinfecting surfaces that are touched often, like toys and doorknobs.
    • Teaching children to cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing.

  3. Limit Exposure: If possible, try to limit your baby’s exposure to crowded places, especially during peak RSV season. You might also consider keeping infants away from individuals who have cold-like symptoms.

chart describing types of vaccines against RSV

Recognizing the Symptoms of RSV

RSV symptoms can mimic those of a common cold, but it’s important to know when they might signal something more serious. Common symptoms include:

  • Runny nose
  • Coughing and sneezing
  • Fever
  • Decreased appetite
  • Wheezing or difficulty breathing

In severe cases, infants might show signs of respiratory distress, such as:

  • Rapid breathing or gasping for air
  • Flared nostrils
  • Bluish skin color due to lack of oxygen

What to Do if Symptoms Appear

If your child begins to show symptoms of RSV, it’s important to monitor their condition closely. Mild cases can usually be managed at home by keeping your child comfortable, ensuring they stay hydrated, and using fever reducers as recommended by your pediatrician.

However, seek medical attention immediately if you notice signs of worsening illness, such as difficulty breathing, severe coughing, or if your child is lethargic or not feeding well. In some cases, hospitalization may be required for supplemental oxygen or fluids.

Stay Prepared and Informed

RSV is a virus that many children will encounter at some point, but by staying informed and taking preventative steps, you can reduce the risks of severe illness. Vaccinations, good hygiene, and prompt medical care when symptoms arise are the best ways to protect your child during RSV season. Always consult your pediatrician for personalized guidance on how to keep your family healthy.

For more information, visit the CDC’s RSV page or contact Uncas Health District.

Why Early Fall is the Ideal Time to Get Your Flu Vaccine

by
Woman with a cold on autumn background

As we transition into the crisp, cool days of fall, it’s the perfect time to think about protecting yourself and your loved ones from the flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone aged six months and older get a flu vaccine every year, with September and October being the optimal months for most people to receive their shot. Here’s why getting vaccinated during these early fall months is important for your health and the well-being of your community.

The Importance of Flu Vaccines

Flu vaccines are your best defense against the influenza virus, which can cause mild to severe illness and even lead to hospitalization or death, especially among high-risk populations like the elderly, young children, and those with chronic health conditions. By getting vaccinated, you’re not only protecting yourself but also helping to shield vulnerable members of the community who may be at higher risk for serious complications.

Influenza is not a virus to be taken lightly. From 2018 to 2022, influenza and pneumonia combined were responsible for 47,052 deaths in the United States, making it the 12th leading cause of death with a mortality rate of 14.1 deaths per 100,000 people. Specifically, influenza accounted for 5,944 deaths, or 1.8 deaths per 100,000 people, during the same period. These statistics underscore the significant impact that influenza can have on public health, particularly in seasons when the flu virus is more virulent or when vaccine coverage is lower.

Why September and October Are the Best Times

The flu season typically begins in the fall and peaks in the winter months, which is why getting vaccinated in September or October is ideal. The vaccine takes about two weeks to build up sufficient immunity, so by getting your shot in early fall, you ensure that you’re protected before flu activity becomes widespread. Vaccinating early also helps to minimize the spread of the virus within the community, especially to those who may be more susceptible to severe outcomes.

Where to Get Your Flu Vaccine

Flu vaccines are widely available and easy to access. You can receive your vaccine at various locations, including your healthcare provider’s office, local pharmacies, and community health centers. In Connecticut, residents can also get vaccinated through the Uncas Health District and the Mobile Health Team, which offer convenient and accessible options for receiving the flu shot.

Protect Yourself and Your Community

By getting vaccinated against the flu this fall, you’re playing an active role in safeguarding your health and the health of those around you. It’s a simple step that can make a significant difference, particularly as we head into the colder months when flu activity tends to rise. Don’t wait — plan your flu vaccine today and help prevent the spread of this serious illness.

Uncas Health District will begin administering or offering flu vaccines as of October 1st.  High dose and regular flu vaccines will be available for anyone aged 6 months and up.  The following insurances are accepted with a zero copay: Anthem, Cigna, ConnectiCare, Medicare, and TriCare.  All others will have a $20 copay.  Flu clinics will be offered with no appointment necessary in the office on Mondays from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. in October and November.

Uncas Health District Offering Online Free Programs to Help People Quit Tobacco

by
quit smoking

Uncas Health District is offering a tobacco cessation (quit smoking) program to help adults quit using tobacco and electronic nicotine delivery (vaping) products. The program’s goal is to remove common barriers by offering quit aids, coaching, and social support at no cost.

Programs are open to those who live or work in Eastern Connecticut. The program uses the American Lung Association’s “Freedom from Smoking®” curriculum to help participants quit tobacco in eight sessions over seven weeks. Participants will receive free nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gum, and lozenges). Individual counseling is available by appointment if interested participants can’t attend the group program or would prefer one-on-one support.

The first class starts on Monday, September 16th, 2024, at 6:30 pm via ZOOM.

“Quitting tobacco is a huge step towards improving your health and preventing disease. Ask any former tobacco user; it’s the best decision they’ve ever made,” said Program Facilitator Carolyn Wilson. “Sometimes it takes several attempts to be successful, but creating a plan, seeking support, and developing a set of strategies is the best course of action. It’s important to never give up on the journey to becoming tobacco-free.”

This program is supported by the Health & Human Services Block Grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The tobacco cessation program is FREE.  A reliable internet connection with access to the ZOOM platform is needed.

Participants will receive a free program workbook, FREE nicotine replacement therapy and other helpful quit aids. To register for the program, contact Carolyn Wilson at (860) 400-2072 (call or text).

National Preparedness Month: Are You Ready for the Unexpected?

by
Father and son assemble the emergency evacuation bag together and put necessary items into backpacks

September is National Preparedness Month, a reminder that emergencies can happen anywhere, at any time. Whether it’s a natural disaster, a health crisis, or an unforeseen event, being prepared can make all the difference. Do you know what kinds of hazards are common where we live, work, and travel? From hurricanes to wildfires to power outages, each region has its own risks. But whatever hazards we face, it’s important to have a plan for safety before, during, and after any emergency.

In 2024, the National Preparedness Month Theme is “Start a Conversation.” Initiating a conversation today can empower you and your family to take more steps toward preparedness. By making small efforts, you can gradually strengthen your readiness at your own pace.

Choose a time when everyone is calm and at ease. It might be helpful to spread the discussions out over a set period, allowing for more thoughtful decisions and ensuring everyone feels comfortable discussing the topic. Share the steps you’ve already taken to prepare and invite others to ask questions about preparedness actions that may suit their needs.

Here are some more helpful tips for emergency preparedness:

Stay Connected: Have a Plan

When emergencies strike, staying connected with your family and getting timely information from local officials is crucial. How prepared are you to stay in touch during a crisis? There are some easy ways to ensure you and your family can communicate effectively. Visit the Ready.gov website and create a free, fillable family emergency plan. It’s a great way to make sure everyone knows what to do and where to go. Share your plan with your loved ones and ask them to share theirs too!

Get Alerts: Stay Informed

Another important step is staying informed about potential threats. Downloading the free FEMA App is an excellent way to receive warnings and alerts for up to five different locations in the U.S. This app is extremely helpful for those of us who travel or have family in different regions. Additionally, check your phone to ensure it can receive Wireless Emergency Alerts and Emergency Alert System messages. This simple action can give you critical information when you need it most.

Plan for Evacuation: Know Where to Go

Do you know where you and your pets will go if you’re told to evacuate? Whether it’s a friend or relative’s house, a community shelter, or a hotel in another town, it’s important to have a plan. Visit Ready.gov’s evacuation page and learn how to prepare for a quick and safe evacuation. Take a moment to talk with your family about your evacuation plan so everyone knows where to go and how to get there.

Build a Kit: Be Ready for Everyone in Your Family

When preparing for an emergency, it’s vital to think about the specific needs of each family member. Have you considered what supplies you may need for your kids, older adults, or family members with disabilities? Don’t forget about your pets, either! Check out Ready.gov’s Build A Kit page and learn about the essential items you will need to stay safe and comfortable during and after a disaster. Remember to include things like medications, medical devices, and anything else that’s crucial for your family’s well-being.

Medical Needs: Plan for Power and Temperature

If anyone in your family relies on medical devices or medications that need to be kept at a certain temperature, it’s important to have a plan in place. Do you have backup power supplies or know of places where you can store medicine safely? Ready.gov has guidance on what you should do to prepare before something happens. Taking the time to plan now can prevent a lot of stress later.

Protect Important Items: Keep Your Valuables Safe

Finally, consider how you’ll protect important documents, family mementos, and treasured possessions. Do you have water-resistant plastic bags or containers to keep them safe? Make digital copies of my documents and photos and store them in a password-protected online account. Ready.gov’s Make a Plan page has more tips on how to safeguard these items.

National Preparedness Month is the perfect time to start or update your emergency plans. Visit Ready.gov today to ensure you and your family are prepared for whatever may come your way. Stay safe, stay informed, and be ready!

Sign Up for Text Alerts from Uncas Health District

DEEP to Spray for Mosquitoes in Area of Pachaug State Forest 

by
entrance to Pachaug State Forest

While there have been no human cases of EEE in Connecticut so far this season, detections of EEE-carrying mosquitoes in this area remain high. 

While there have been no cases of eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEE) in humans in Connecticut so far this season, the risk level for EEE in the eastern part of the state remains elevated. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Mosquito Management Program will conduct insecticide spraying on the evening of Thursday, August 29 (weather permitting) in an area of eastern Connecticut where mammal-biting mosquitoes carrying EEE have been consistently detected. This step is being taken out of an abundance of caution to minimize the potential for spread of the virus to humans. 

The Mosquito Management Program will spray for mosquitoes in the Mt. Misery area of Pachaug State Forest on the evening of August 29. Entrances to the State Forest will close at 5:00 PM on Thursday, August 29, and the forest and nearby roads will be closed for the evening. They will reopen at 8:00 AM on Friday, August 30. Residential portions of these roads will still remain accessible to residents. 

EEE has been detected in the following towns this year: Canterbury, Ledyard, North Stonington, Sterling, and Voluntown. No human cases have been reported in Connecticut in 2024, but human cases have been reported in Massachusetts, Vermont, New Jersey, and New Hampshire (one death). A white-tailed deer died from EEE earlier in August in Lisbon, Connecticut. 

“DEEP encourages residents to take appropriate precautions as we are still not through the mosquito season,” said DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes. “With the presence of EEE in mosquitoes in eastern Connecticut and West Nile Virus in other areas of the state, it is very important that residents minimize time outdoors during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are prevalent and wear long sleeves and use insect repellent if out at any point during those times.” 

“Mosquitoes are still active, and residents should continue to take measures to prevent mosquito bites, especially during warm evenings when mosquitoes are most active,” said Dr. Philip Armstrong, Medical Entomologist at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station. “There is continued risk for mosquito-borne diseases until the first hard freeze when mosquito activity ends.” 

“Since there is no vaccine for EEE, protection from this virus depends on personal protective measures to decrease exposure to infected mosquitoes,” said Connecticut Department of Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD. “Symptoms from EEE include severe headache and neck stiffness which can result in nausea, vomiting, and dehydration. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.” 

The insecticide the Mosquito Management Program will spray contains the active ingredients sumithrin and prallethrin. When applied at appropriate rates this product does not affect humans, pets or other non-target organisms. Campers have been notified of the spraying and have been advised to leave the area while spraying is conducted. 

The following forest roads will close beginning at 5:00 PM on Thursday, August 29: DEP Trail 1, Gardner Road, Stone Hill Road, Trail 1, Lee Road, Lawrence Road, Trail 2, and Route 49 North entrance. Road gates in these areas will close during this time. Residential portions of these roads still will be accessible to residents. Visitors are advised to plan visits and activities accordingly to avoid the area while spraying is conducted. Campers have been advised to avoid the area until at least 10:00 PM Thursday night and will be permitted to return after 10:00 PM. 

To reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes, residents should: 

  • Minimize time spent outdoors between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. 
  • Consider the use of mosquito repellents containing an EPA-registered active ingredient, including DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone when it is necessary to be outdoors. 
  • Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors for long periods of time, or when mosquitoes are more active. Clothing should be light-colored and loose-fitting and made of tightly woven materials that keep mosquitoes away from the skin. 
  • Be sure door and window screens are tight-fitting and in good repair. 
  • Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in an unscreened structure and to protect infants when outdoors. 

Residents also are encouraged to take steps at home to protect against mosquitoes, such as making sure door and window screens are tight-fitting and in good repair and not letting stagnant water collect around your home. Dump water out of old tires, wheelbarrows, and wading pools. More information on mosquito control around the home can be found on the Connecticut Mosquito Management Program website. 

Connecticut Mosquito Management Program 

The response to mosquito transmitted diseases in Connecticut is a collaborative inter-agency effort involving the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES), the Department of Public Health (DPH), the Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Pathobiology at the University of Connecticut (UCONN). These agencies are responsible for monitoring mosquito populations and the potential public health threat of mosquito-borne diseases. 

For information on EEE, West Nile Virus, and other mosquito-borne diseases, what can be done to prevent getting bitten by mosquitoes, the latest mosquito test results, and human infections, visit the Connecticut Mosquito Management Program website. 

 

Read More About Mosquito-Borne Illnesses

Skip to content