Latest Uncas Health District News
DPH Stresses Lead Prevention Safety for Children
Oct. 20-26 is National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW). This campaign aims to bring together individuals, organizations, industry, and state, tribal, and local governments to reduce childhood exposure to lead by increasing lead poisoning prevention awareness and education. “Lead poisoning is preventable, and there is no safe level of lead for children, so we are … Read more
Helpful Tips to Enjoy a Safe and Healthy Halloween
Halloween is a favorite holiday for both children and adults, but it is important to make safe and healthy choices while enjoying the occasion. Here are some tips for parents on how everyone can enjoy a safe and healthy Halloween.
DPH Confirms Connecticut’s First Influenza Deaths of Flu Season
Connecticut Department of Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD, confirmed the first two deaths of state residents due to influenza (flu) for the 2024-25 respiratory viral disease season. The announcement came at a news conference this morning where Governor Ned Lamont received his COVID-19 and flu vaccines. The first influenza death occurred in an adult … Read more
Uncas Health District Homebound Program Provides At-Home Vaccines
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 … Read more
Recall Alert: USDA Issues Public Health Alert for Ready-To-Eat Cranberry Chicken Salad Products
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 … Read more
Free COVID-19 Tests Available Again
Every household in the United States is eligible to receive four additional free at-home COVID-19 rapid tests, delivered straight to your door. You can order these tests at no cost, including free shipping, by visiting covidtests.gov. Extended Shelf Life for COVID-19 Tests Many COVID-19 test kits now have extended expiration dates, meaning they may still … Read more
Fruit Flies: Why They’re Common in the Fall, the Health Risks They Pose, and Safe Ways to Get Rid of Them
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 … Read more
Understanding RSV: How to Protect Your Child During Peak Season
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 … Read more