Uncas Health District

Sun Safety: Protect Your Skin and Know the Warning Signs of Heat Illness

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Mother applying sunscreen to child

Warm, sunny days are a welcome part of summer in Connecticut, but too much sun and heat can quickly become dangerous. Whether you are spending time at the beach, working outdoors, attending a community event, or enjoying your own backyard, taking sun safety seriously can help prevent sunburn, heat-related illness, and long-term skin damage.

Ultraviolet, or UV, rays from the sun can damage skin cells, even on cloudy or cooler days. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to UV light, and skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. UV rays are typically strongest at midday, making sun protection especially important between late morning and mid-afternoon.

Sunscreen Is Important — But It Is Not the Only Step

Sunscreen is one of the most effective tools for reducing sun damage, but it works best when used correctly and combined with other protective steps. The American Cancer Society recommends choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to help protect against harmful UV rays.

Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin before going outside, including easy-to-miss areas such as the ears, neck, hairline, the tops of the feet, and the lips. Sunscreen should be reapplied at least every two hours, and more often after swimming, sweating, or toweling off. The American Academy of Dermatology also emphasizes that sunscreen must be applied correctly to provide effective protection.

Other smart sun-safety steps include:

  • Seek shade, especially during late morning through mid-afternoon.
  • Wear a wide-brimmed hat that shades the face, ears, and neck.
  • Choose lightweight, tightly woven clothing or clothing labeled with UV protection.
  • Wear sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays.
  • Check the UV Index before spending extended time outdoors.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends sun protection when the UV Index is 3 or higher. At very high UV levels, extra protection is needed, especially during late morning through mid-afternoon.

Sunburns Are More Than Temporary Discomfort

A sunburn is a sign that the skin has been damaged by UV radiation. While redness, pain, peeling, and tenderness may fade after a few days, repeated sunburns can increase the risk of long-term skin damage and skin cancer.

Sunburn can also make it harder for the body to cool itself, which can contribute to dehydration and increase the risk of heat-related illness. If you do get sunburned, get out of the sun, drink water, cool the skin with a cool bath or damp cloth, and avoid further sun exposure while the skin heals.

Seek medical care if a sunburn causes severe blistering, fever, chills, dizziness, confusion, dehydration, or signs of infection.

Know the Warning Signs of Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

Heat-related illness happens when the body cannot cool itself properly. During extreme heat or high humidity, sweating may not be enough to keep body temperature at a safe level. The Connecticut Department of Public Health notes that heat stress can range from mild conditions, such as heat rash or cramps, to more serious conditions, including heat exhaustion.

Warning signs of heat exhaustion may include:

  • Heavy sweating
  • Headache
  • Dizziness or faintness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Irritability
  • Thirst
  • Muscle cramps
  • Decreased urination

If heat exhaustion is suspected, move the person to a cooler place, loosen clothing, apply cool cloths, and encourage small sips of water. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or do not improve.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. According to the CDC, symptoms may include confusion, slurred speech, loss of consciousness, seizures, very high body temperature, and hot, dry skin or heavy sweating. Call 911 immediately if heat stroke is suspected. While waiting for emergency help, move the person to a cooler area and begin cooling them with cool cloths, cold water, or other available methods.

Some are at Higher Risk for Heat Stroke

Anyone can be affected by sun exposure and extreme heat, but some people are more vulnerable, including older adults, infants and young children, pregnant people, outdoor workers, athletes, people with chronic health conditions, and people taking certain medications.

During hot weather, check on family members, neighbors, and others who may need help staying cool. Never leave children, adults, or pets in a parked car, even for a short time.

Protect Your Skin

Sun safety is not just for beach days. UV exposure adds up over time, and protection is important any time you are outdoors. Building simple habits — applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, staying hydrated, and recognizing warning signs — can help prevent painful sunburns, reduce the risk of heat illness, and protect long-term skin health.

Before heading outside, take a few minutes to plan ahead. A hat, water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, and shaded breaks can make a meaningful difference in keeping you and your family safe all summer long.

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Pools are Cool — Let’s Use them Safely

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toddler trying to get into the pool

Pools can offer cool relief on scorching days, a place for exercise and relaxation, and summer fun. But owning — or even using —  a pool enjoyment comes with a big responsibility: safety.  According to the CDC, drowning is the leading cause of unintentional injury death for children 1-4 years old and the second leading cause of death for those 5-14. Here are some ways to enjoy a backyard pool safely and cautiously:

Fortified Pool Area

  • Fencing is Fundamental: A complete fence, at least 4 feet high, should surround your pool entirely. Look for self-closing, self-latching gates that open away from the pool. Make sure there’s nothing near the fence that can be used for climbing, like chairs or planters.

  • Door Access: House doors leading directly to the pool area should have alarms or self-closing mechanisms. Consider a secondary fence with another self-latching gate for an extra layer of security.

Safety in and Around the Water

  • Supervision: Never leave children unattended near the pool, not for a second. Designate a “water watcher” who stays focused on swimmers, especially young children.

  • Life Vests Save Lives: Children who don’t swim well should wear Coast Guard-approved life jackets whenever they’re in or around the pool.

  • Safety Gear at the Ready: Keep a life preserver, reaching pole, and first-aid kit poolside and easily accessible.

  • Poolside Rules: Establish clear rules for pool use. No running, diving in shallow areas, or roughhousing.

General Pool Safety

  • Chemicals: Store pool chemicals securely, away from the pool, and out of reach of children. Always follow manufacturer instructions for handling and storage.

  • Maintenance: A clean pool is a safe pool. Regularly skim debris, test and adjust the water’s chemical balance, and maintain proper circulation.

  • No Electronics Allowed: Keep radios, phones, and other electronics away from the pool to prevent electrical hazards.

  • Be Water Aware: Don’t swim alone, especially after consuming alcohol. Know your limits and encourage others to do the same.

Following these pool safety tips, you can turn your backyard into a fun and functional space for everyone. Remember, constant vigilance and a focus on safety are essential for a worry-free summer by the pool.

Don’t forget: Enroll your children in swim lessons! These valuable skills can make a life-or-death difference in the water.

 

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Fireworks Safety: Celebrate Independence Day Responsibly 

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kids playing with sparklers

As Independence Day approaches, many of us are looking forward to fireworks displays, cookouts, parades, and time with family and friends. Fireworks may be a holiday tradition, but they are also explosive devices that can cause serious injuries when used improperly.

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a permitted public display conducted by licensed professionals. Before celebrating, it’s important to understand the risks, follow Connecticut law, and take simple steps to protect children, pets, neighbors, and yourself.

Fireworks Can Cause Serious Injuries

Each year, thousands of people across the United States are treated in emergency departments for fireworks-related injuries. These injuries can include burns, eye injuries, hand and finger injuries, hearing damage, and trauma to the head or face.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in 2025:

  • 13,004 estimated fireworks-related injuries were treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments.
  • 24 non-occupational fireworks-related fatalities were reported.
  • 9,209 injuries, or 71%, occurred during the one-month period from June 15 to July 15, 2025.
  • 35% of injuries involved the fingers and hands; another 30% involved the face, nose, mouth, eyes, and ears.
  • Thermal burns were the leading diagnosis, accounting for more than one-third of injuries.

Sparklers are often viewed as a safer option, but they burn at extremely high temperatures and can cause serious burns, especially among children. Young children should not handle sparklers or other pyrotechnic devices.

Know Connecticut’s Fireworks Laws

In Connecticut, fireworks are not legal for use by non-professional, non-licensed individuals, with limited exceptions. Firecrackers, bottle rockets, Roman candles, aerial fireworks, and similar devices are illegal for personal use.

Connecticut allows certain sparklers and fountains, but they may not be sold to or used by anyone younger than 16. Even when a device is legal, it can still be dangerous and should be handled only by responsible adults in a safe outdoor area.

If you are unsure whether an item is legal, do not use it. Buying fireworks in another state does not make them legal to possess or use in Connecticut.

The Safest Choice: Attend a Public Display

Public fireworks displays are planned and conducted by trained, licensed professionals with safety protocols in place. Attending a permitted public display reduces the risk of injury and helps keep celebrations safe for everyone.

When attending a public fireworks display:

  • Follow all instructions from event organizers, police, fire officials, and posted signs.
  • Stay within designated viewing areas.
  • Keep children close and supervised at all times.
  • Do not cross safety barriers or enter restricted areas.
  • Protect your hearing, especially for young children or anyone who is sensitive to loud noise.
  • Keep pets at home in a quiet, secure space, as fireworks can cause fear and stress.

If You Use Legal Sparklers or Fountains

If adults choose to use legal sparklers or fountains, safety precautions are essential:

  • Use them only outdoors and away from people, pets, homes, vehicles, dry grass, and flammable materials.
  • Keep a bucket of water nearby for used items.
  • Never allow young children to handle sparklers.
  • Do not hold multiple sparklers at once.
  • Never point or throw any device at another person.
  • Do not try to relight a device that does not work.
  • Place spent items in water before throwing them away.

If a burn, eye injury, fire, or other emergency occurs, call 911 right away.

Be Considerate of Neighbors, Veterans, Pets, and Wildlife

Fireworks can be especially difficult for people with sensory sensitivities, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, or certain medical conditions. They can also frighten pets, livestock, and wildlife.

A safer and more considerate celebration may include attending a professional display, using glow sticks or LED toys, hosting a daytime gathering, or choosing quieter holiday activities.

Concerned About a Fireworks Display?

If you have concerns about a fireworks display in your area, contact your local fire department, fire marshal, or law enforcement agency. They can help confirm whether a display has the required permits and safety measures in place.

Celebrate Safely

Independence Day should be memorable for the right reasons. By leaving fireworks to licensed professionals, following Connecticut law, supervising children, and being mindful of neighbors and pets, we can all help make the holiday safer for our communities.

This Fourth of July, enjoy the celebration — and leave the fireworks to the professionals.

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HIV Testing Day Highlights the Importance of Early Detection and Prevention

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Hand holding Red Ribbon for HIV Testing

National HIV Testing Day, observed annually on June 27, highlights the importance of HIV testing as a routine part of preventive health care. Early detection is critical because it connects individuals to timely treatment, improves long-term health outcomes, and helps reduce the spread of HIV within the community. Advances in HIV treatment have made it possible for people living with HIV to lead long, healthy lives while also lowering the risk of transmission when the virus is effectively managed.

HIV can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, background, or relationship status. Because HIV may not cause noticeable symptoms for years, testing is the only way to know your status. For many people, getting tested brings peace of mind. For those who test positive, early detection opens the door to effective treatment, long-term health, and measures to prevent transmission to others.

Early Detection Makes a Difference

When HIV is diagnosed early, people can begin medical care sooner. Today’s HIV treatments are highly effective at controlling the virus, protecting the immune system, and helping people live long, healthy lives. Early treatment can also reduce the amount of virus in the body, known as viral load.

This matters because the lower a person’s viral load, the lower the chance of passing HIV to someone else. When a person living with HIV takes medication as prescribed and maintains an undetectable viral load, they cannot transmit HIV through sex. This powerful advancement is often called “Undetectable = Untransmittable,” or U=U.

Early detection also gives people the information they need to make informed choices. A negative test result can be an opportunity to talk with a health care provider about prevention tools such as condoms, PrEP, or other steps that may reduce risk. A positive test result can connect someone to treatment, support services, and ongoing care.

HIV Treatment Has Come a Long Way

HIV is no longer the diagnosis it once was. While there is still no cure, modern antiretroviral therapy can control HIV very effectively. Many people living with HIV take medication daily or receive treatment through other approved options recommended by their health care provider.

With consistent treatment, HIV can become a manageable chronic condition. People who begin and remain in care can maintain their health, protect their partners, and continue living full, active lives. These medical advances are one of the greatest public health successes of recent decades, but they only work when people know their status and can access care.

HIV Testing Is Also a Public Safety Tool

HIV testing is not only about personal health. It is also about community health.

When people know their status, they can take steps to protect themselves and others. Early diagnosis helps prevent new infections by connecting people to treatment sooner. It also reduces the stigma and uncertainty that can keep people from seeking care. The more routine HIV testing becomes, the easier it is for people to talk openly, get support, and make informed decisions.

Public health depends on prevention, education, and access. HIV testing supports all three. It helps identify infections earlier, connects people to care, and gives communities the information needed to reduce transmission.

Who Should Get Tested?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone ages 13 to 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. Some people may benefit from testing more often, including those who have had more than one sexual partner, have a partner whose HIV status is unknown, have been diagnosed with another sexually transmitted infection, or share injection equipment.

Testing can be done through a health care provider, community clinic, local health department, or at-home testing option. Many testing services are free or low-cost, and results may be available quickly depending on the type of test used.

Take the Step: Know Your Status

National HIV Testing Day is a good reminder that testing is a normal and responsible part of taking care of your health. Whether your result is negative or positive, knowing your status gives you options, resources, and control.

Consider making HIV testing part of your routine wellness plan. Encourage loved ones to do the same. A simple test can lead to earlier care, better outcomes, and a healthier community for everyone.

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LAST CALL: Food Service & Salon Relicensing Due June 30th

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man applying online

If you operate a food service establishment or salon business in the Uncas Health District, your license renewal is due by June 30, 2026. In recent years, we streamlined the renewal process to make it quicker and easier than ever — all applications must be submitted online through our secure portal.

How to File Online

To make relicensing more convenient, Uncas Health District now offers an online application portal. Here’s how to get started:

  1. Visit uncashd.org
  2. Click “Forms and Licensing” in the menu, or go directly to the licensing page via the links below.
  3. Complete the appropriate form with your business details.
  4. Upload any required documentation.
  5. An invoice will be emailed to you for payment.

If you are unable to process payments online for any reason, you may visit our office or mail in payment.

All payments (including municipal taxes due and balances due on account) and completed paperwork MUST be received by June 30, 2026, or a late fee will be automatically assessed.

Food Service Relicensing 

Salon Relicensing

Heat Season: Tips to Prepare for Extreme Summer Heat

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Woman in a red plaid shirt wipes sweat from her forehead with a tissue in a sunny park, holding a water bottle in the other hand.

Hot weather can become dangerous quickly, especially when high temperatures combine with humidity. During extreme heat, the body has to work harder to stay cool. If it cannot cool itself properly, heat-related illness can develop. Older adults, infants and young children, people with chronic health conditions, outdoor workers, athletes, and people without reliable air conditioning are at higher risk.

 

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Pride Month: Supporting Health, Belonging, and Prevention for Everyone

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Diverse young friends celebrating gay pride festival

Each June, Pride Month offers an opportunity to recognize the importance of acceptance, connection, and community. From a public health perspective, these values matter every single day of the year.

Good health isn't just about medical appointments or test results; it is also shaped by whether people feel safe asking questions, supported in seeking care, and connected to trusted resources. When individuals and families feel respected, they are far more likely to take preventive steps, speak openly with healthcare providers, and reach out for help when needed.

At Uncas Health District, our mission is rooted in prevention, education, and helping people across our communities live healthier lives. Pride Month serves as a powerful reminder that public health works best when everyone feels welcome.

Acceptance Supports Health

Feeling accepted has a tangible impact on well-being. Supportive families, schools, workplaces, neighborhoods, and healthcare settings reduce isolation and encourage people to care for their physical and mental health.

For the LGBTQIA+ communities — as with all communities — a sense of belonging makes it easier to ask health questions, seek routine care, and connect with services. For parents, caregivers, friends, and neighbors, simple actions can make a profound difference: listening without judgment, using respectful language, checking in, and helping someone find reliable resources when needed.

Prevention Is for Everyone

Pride Month is an excellent time to focus on preventive health. Regular checkups, screenings, vaccinations, and healthy daily habits help people stay well and catch potential concerns early.

Depending on your age, health history, and personal risk factors, preventive care may include:

  • Annual wellness visits
  • Blood pressure checks
  • Recommended immunizations
  • Cancer screenings
  • HIV, hepatitis C, and STI testing
  • Tobacco cessation support
  • Mental health support
  • Substance use prevention and harm reduction services

No one should delay care because they feel embarrassed, unsure, or afraid of being judged. Health questions are normal. Testing is routine. Prevention is a strength.

Mental Health Matters

While Pride Month is a joyful celebration, it can also bring up complicated feelings for some. Individuals may be navigating stress, complex family dynamics, grief, loneliness, or concerns about acceptance.

Mental health is health. Checking in on someone, making time to talk, and encouraging support can be life-saving.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, emotional distress, or a mental health or substance use crisis, call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org. Free, confidential support is available 24/7.

You do not need to be in immediate danger to reach out. Support is available for anyone who just needs someone to talk to.

Community Connection Drives Healthy Living

Healthy living is often easier when people feel connected. Community events, walking groups, volunteer opportunities, local programs, faith communities, libraries, recreation spaces, and support networks all play a crucial role in our overall well-being.

During Pride Month and throughout the year, consider how you can help make everyday spaces more welcoming. A kind word, an invitation, or a willingness to listen can help someone feel seen and supported. Public health is built on these small, everyday actions.

Uncas Health District Is Here to Help 

The Uncas Health District provides community health education, prevention services, and resources to support residents across our district. Through programs like our Mobile Health Team, residents can access free and confidential services, including health screenings, education, testing, vaccinations, and connections to care.

Our goal is simple: to help people get the information and support they need to make healthy choices.

This Pride Month, we encourage you to take one step for your health or the health of someone you care about:

  • Schedule a checkup.
  • Ask about screenings.
  • Reach out for mental health support.
  • Learn about prevention.
  • Check in on a friend.

A healthier community is one where everyone feels safe, supported, and valued.

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Men’s Health Month: Small Steps That Can Make a Big Difference

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Men's Health Month

For many men, going to the doctor is something that gets pushed to the bottom of the list. Work, family, responsibilities, and the simple feeling of “I’m fine” can make it easy to delay a checkup or ignore small health changes. But Men’s Health Month is a good reminder that taking care of your health does not have to be complicated. A few proactive steps, honest conversations, and simple daily habits can make a real difference in how you feel now and in the years ahead.

According to the CDC, heart disease, cancer, and unintentional injuries are among the leading causes of death for men in the United States. The good news is that many of the risk factors associated with these conditions can be managed through regular medical care and healthy lifestyle habits.

Start with Preventive Care

A yearly wellness visit is a simple but powerful first step. Even if you feel healthy, your health care provider can check important numbers such as blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and weight, and help you understand what they mean for your long-term health.

Men should talk with their provider about which screenings are right for them based on age, family history, lifestyle, and personal risk factors. Important preventive care topics may include:

Blood pressure: The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening adults age 18 and older for high blood pressure.

Cholesterol: The CDC notes that most healthy adults should have their cholesterol checked every 4 to 6 years, and some people may need testing more often.

Colorectal cancer: Adults ages 45 to 75 should be screened for colorectal cancer. People with a family history or other risk factors may need to start earlier.

Prostate cancer: Men ages 55 to 69 should talk with their provider about the potential benefits and risks of prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, testing before deciding whether screening is right for them.

Vaccines: Adults should stay up to date on recommended vaccines, including flu, COVID-19, tetanus/Tdap, shingles, pneumococcal, and others based on age and health conditions.

Break the Stigma Around Men’s Health

One of the biggest barriers to men’s wellness is the idea that asking for help is a sign of weakness. It is not. Scheduling a checkup, talking about stress, or asking questions about symptoms are signs of strength and responsibility.

This is especially important for mental health. Stress, anxiety, depression, substance use, grief, and burnout can affect anyone. The CDC notes that stigma can prevent or delay people from seeking care, even though support and treatment are available.

Men may not always describe emotional distress as sadness. It can show up as irritability, anger, sleep problems, withdrawal from family or friends, increased drinking, risk-taking, or feeling constantly overwhelmed. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat online with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support 24/7.

Simple Lifestyle Changes with Big Results

You do not need to overhaul your life overnight. Small, consistent changes can have a major impact over time.

Move more. Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week, plus two days of muscle-strengthening activity. That can be as simple as a brisk 30-minute walk five days a week.

Choose healthier meals more often. Add more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and water. Even small swaps, such as choosing grilled instead of fried foods or replacing sugary drinks with water, can support heart health and weight management.

Prioritize sleep. Adults generally need 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Poor sleep can affect mood, focus, blood pressure, weight, and overall health.

Cut back on alcohol. Drinking less is better for your health than drinking more. For adults who choose to drink, CDC guidance defines moderate drinking as two drinks or fewer in a day for men.

Quit tobacco and nicotine products. If you smoke, quitting is one of the most important steps you can take for your health. Support, medication, counseling, and quitlines can improve the chances of success.

Know your family history. A family history of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, or other conditions can affect your own risk. The CDC recommends sharing your family health history with your provider to help guide screenings and prevention.

Make June Your Starting Point

Men’s Health Month is a reminder that wellness is not just about avoiding illness. It is about having the energy, strength, and support to show up for yourself and the people who depend on you.

This month, choose one step: schedule a physical, check your blood pressure, take a walk after dinner, start a conversation about mental health, or ask your provider which screenings are right for you. Small steps today can lead to big health benefits tomorrow.

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CT DPH Confirms First Case of Clade I Mpox

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Gloved hands handling a blood sample tube over a rack of labeled vials in a lab setting

Commissioner Juthani urges at-risk population to seek vaccination ahead of the summer travel season

The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) has identified the first case of clade I mpox in Connecticut through testing performed at the State Public Health Laboratory. The person with this case recently traveled to Western Europe, where clade I mpox is currently spreading. This case does not pose a risk to the general public.

Mpox is still spreading worldwide, including in the United States. It continues to affect gay and bisexual men and other men who have sex with men more than other groups. DPH urges people who may be at risk to get fully vaccinated with the JYNNEOS vaccine.

"Mpox hasn't gone away, and we want people to be protected, especially as many in our community prepare for travel, festivals, and gatherings this summer," said DPH Commissioner Manisha Juthani, M.D. "The vaccine is safe, effective, and widely available. Completing the two-dose series is the best way to protect yourself and your partners."

There are two types of the mpox virus: clade I and clade II. Clade II has been spreading in the U.S. and around the world since a large outbreak in 2022. Clade I has mainly caused outbreaks in Central and Eastern Africa and has recently been found in Western Europe. Since November 2024, more than 20 clade I mpox cases have been reported in the U.S. in people who traveled to affected areas or had close contact with someone who did.

Both types spread and cause illness in the same ways and can be prevented in the same ways. Mpox spreads mainly through direct skin-to-skin contact with the rash. The rash can look like pimples or blisters. It forms a scab before healing over several weeks. Some people also get fever, chills, headache, sore throat, or swollen lymph nodes. A person with mpox can spread the virus for up to four days before symptoms appear and until the rash has fully healed and new skin has formed.

If you develop symptoms that might be mpox, contact your healthcare provider right away. Testing is available through the Connecticut State Public Health Laboratory and other labs. Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself. DPH strongly recommends that people at risk get both doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine. Vaccines are available at pharmacies and clinics across the state. Talk to your healthcare provider to find out if you should get vaccinated.

For more information about mpox or to find a vaccination site, visit the DPH website.

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Cervical Cancer Prevention: Pap Tests, HPV Testing, and Vaccination

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Woman holding teal awareness ribbon

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Regular screening can find cell changes before they become cancer, and HPV vaccination can help prevent the infections that cause most cervical cancers. Together, these tools give women powerful protection at different stages of life.

Most cervical cancers are caused by long-lasting infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus, or HPV. HPV is very common, and in many cases, the body clears the infection on its own. When a high-risk HPV infection does not go away, it can lead to changes in cervical cells over time. If those changes are not found and treated, they may eventually develop into cervical cancer.

Prevention Starts with Understanding HPV

HPV is a group of viruses spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact. Some types of HPV are considered low-risk and can cause genital warts. Other types are high-risk because they are linked to cancer, including cervical, vaginal, vulvar, anal, penile, and some throat cancers. The National Cancer Institute notes that HPV types 16 and 18 are responsible for about 70% of cervical cancers, while other high-risk HPV types also contribute to cervical cancer risk.

Because HPV often has no symptoms, someone can have it without knowing. That is why routine screening matters. Cervical cancer prevention is not just about checking for cancer — it is about finding HPV or abnormal cervical cell changes early enough to prevent cancer from developing.

Pap Tests and HPV Tests: What’s the Difference?

The two main screening tools for cervical cancer are the Pap test and the HPV test. A Pap test, sometimes called a Pap smear, looks for abnormal or precancerous cell changes on the cervix. An HPV test looks for the virus that can cause those cell changes. Both tests can help prevent cervical cancer or find it early.

For women ages 21 to 29, cervical cancer screening is generally done with a Pap test every three years if results are normal. HPV testing is not typically recommended as routine co-testing for women younger than 30. For women ages 30 to 65, current federal women’s preventive services guidance recommends primary high-risk HPV testing every five years as the preferred option, or Pap and HPV co-testing every five years. If HPV testing is unavailable, Pap testing alone every 3 years remains an option.

A common misconception is that women need a Pap test every year. For most women at average risk, annual Pap testing is not recommended. However, this does not mean skipping annual wellness visits. A yearly checkup is still important for reviewing overall health, vaccines, menstrual or menopause symptoms, sexual health, contraception, family history, and other preventive care needs.

What Happens if a Result Is Abnormal?

An abnormal Pap or HPV test result does not usually mean cancer. It often means that HPV or cervical cell changes were found and that more follow-up is needed. Depending on the result, a provider may recommend repeat testing, HPV genotyping, a closer examination of the cervix called colposcopy, or a biopsy. The CDC emphasizes that when abnormal or precancerous cells are found, appropriate follow-up and treatment can prevent cervical cancer from developing in most cases.

The most important step after an abnormal result is to avoid delaying follow-up. Cervical cancer usually develops slowly, and timely evaluation gives providers the best opportunity to monitor or treat cell changes before they become serious.

HPV Vaccination: Cancer Prevention Before Exposure

HPV vaccination is another major tool in cervical cancer prevention. The CDC recommends routine HPV vaccination at ages 11 or 12, though vaccination can begin as early as age 9. Catch-up vaccination is recommended through age 26 for those who were not adequately vaccinated earlier.

Some adults aged 27 through 45 may also choose to get the HPV vaccine after talking with a health care provider. The vaccine offers less benefit for many adults in this age range because they may have already been exposed to HPV, but it can still be helpful for some people, depending on their risk for new HPV infection.

The HPV vaccine prevents new HPV infections, but it does not treat existing HPV infections or cervical cell changes. That is why the vaccine works best when given before exposure to HPV, and why women who have been vaccinated still need cervical cancer screening according to their age and health history.

HPV vaccination is not only for girls. Vaccinating boys and young men also helps prevent HPV-related cancers, including anal, penile, and some throat cancers, and helps reduce the spread of HPV overall.

Screening After Age 65

Many women can stop routine cervical cancer screening after age 65 if they have had adequate normal screening results and do not have a history of cervical precancer or cervical cancer. The CDC notes that a provider may recommend stopping screening after age 65 if a woman has had three normal Pap tests or two normal HPV tests in the past 10 years, has no history of cervical precancer, or has had the cervix removed as part of a total hysterectomy for non-cancerous reasons.

Women with a history of cervical cancer, high-grade precancerous changes, HIV, a weakened immune system, or certain other risk factors may need a different screening schedule. Anyone unsure about their screening history or hysterectomy status should ask a health care provider for recommendations.

A Newer Option: Self-Collected HPV Testing

Screening options are continuing to expand. In 2026, HRSA announced updated women’s preventive services guidelines that include self-collected high-risk HPV testing as an appropriate option for average-risk women ages 30 to 65. This option may help reduce barriers for women who avoid or delay screening because of discomfort, trauma history, transportation challenges, time constraints, or limited access to care.

Self-collection is not a replacement for follow-up care. If a self-collected HPV test is positive, additional testing may be needed to complete the screening process, such as cytology, colposcopy, biopsy, or other evaluation, depending on the result.

Reducing Risk Beyond Screening and Vaccination

Pap tests, HPV testing, and vaccination are the most important prevention tools, but other choices can also support cervical health. Not smoking is important because tobacco use increases cervical cancer risk and can make it harder for the immune system to fight HPV. Condoms can lower the risk of HPV transmission, though they do not eliminate the risk completely because HPV can infect areas not covered by a condom.

Women should also talk with a provider about any personal risk factors that may affect screening recommendations, including HIV, immunosuppressant medications, prior abnormal Pap or HPV results, a history of cervical precancer, or exposure to DES before birth.

The Bottom Line

Cervical cancer prevention is a success story in public health because it gives women multiple ways to lower their risk. HPV vaccination helps prevent the infections that cause most cervical cancers. Pap and HPV testing can find early warning signs before cancer develops. Follow-up care can treat abnormal changes before they become life-threatening.

The best prevention plan is simple: get vaccinated when recommended, follow the cervical cancer screening schedule that is right for your age and health history, and do not delay follow-up if a test result is abnormal. Regular preventive care gives women the strongest chance to stay healthy and catch concerns early.

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