Latest Uncas Health District News
Quit Tobacco for Good: Free Cessation Program Now Available
Want To Quit Tobacco For Good? Join us for a FREE virtual Tobacco Cessation Program! Freedom From Smoking® via ZOOM! Enjoy a supportive, science-based, community environment focused on behavior change. Get assistance in preparing to quit, quitting, and not returning to tobacco use Reprioritize other healthy behaviors, such as stress management, physical activity, and healthy … Read more
Lamont Extends Severe Cold Weather Protocol Through Friday
Governor Ned Lamont today announced that due to an updated weather forecast indicating that the current stretch of frigid conditions Connecticut is experiencing will continue for at least another day, he is extending the duration of the state’s severe cold weather protocol to remain in effect until 12:00 p.m. on Friday, January 10, 2025. The … Read more
Power Down: Your Guide to Staying Safe When the Lights Go Out
When the power goes out, and you’re left in the dark, a generator can save the day. However, before firing up these powerful machines, remember that generators, while helpful, require careful use and caution. Neglecting safety can lead to serious health hazards and even death. Carbon Monoxide: The Silent Killer One of the biggest threats posed … Read more
Connecticut Department of Public Health Celebrates 50th Anniversary of the Safe Drinking Water Act
The 50th anniversary of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) is being celebrated and recognized in 2024 by public and environmental health leaders at the state Department of Public Health (DPH) and across the nation. Originally passed by Congress in 1974, the SDWA helps protect public health by regulating the nation’s public drinking water supply. … Read more
Uncas Health District Offering Free Radon Test Kits
January is officially recognized as Radon Action Month by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA). This annual designation highlights the importance of addressing radon—a silent and invisible threat — in our homes and communities. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, following smoking, and it is the … Read more
Recall Alert: MadeGood Granola Bars Recalled Over Potential Metal Pieces
Riverside Natural Foods Inc. is voluntarily recalling certain batches of MadeGood granola bars due to the potential presence of a piece of metal in the product, which, if consumed, may result in a safety hazard. The health and safety of our consumers is our highest priority. This recall is being initiated as a precautionary measure; … Read more
Up & Away: Keeping Your Medicine Out of Reach From Children
Each year, approximately 35,000 young children are rushed to emergency rooms due to accidental medication poisoning. Often, these incidents occur when medicines are left within a child’s reach. As caregivers, parents, and guardians, understanding proper medication storage is essential for protecting the health and safety of children. The “Up & Away” Initiative The “Up & … Read more
DPH: Make Sure Your Child’s Vaccinations are Up to Date
With 2025 just around the corner, the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) is reminding parents to make sure their children’s immunizations are up to date. The good news is that Connecticut school immunization rates are rebounding. The percentage of Connecticut kindergarten students receiving the required measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine in the 2023–2024 … Read more
CPSC Reports 154K Toy-Related ER Visits in 2023, 10 Deaths
As the holiday season approaches, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) urges consumers to put safety at the top of the list while cooking, decorating, and toy buying. In addition, CPSC reminds families to take precautions, whether shopping online or in-person, to keep family and friends safe from common holiday-related hazards. CPSC’s latest Toy-Related … Read more
Flu Vaccines: Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones
As December approaches, we are entering the heart of flu season. The flu can have serious consequences, especially for individuals at higher risk, including children, older adults, and those with certain health conditions. National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW), observed from December 2-6, serves as an important reminder that it’s not too late to protect yourself … Read more