Latest Uncas Health District News
Whooping Cough Cases on the Rise in Connecticut: What You Need to Know
Connecticut is currently experiencing a spike in cases of whooping cough, a highly contagious respiratory disease also known as pertussis. This increase is a reminder of the importance of vaccination and protecting our families and communities from preventable diseases. Understanding Whooping Cough Whooping cough is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, which spreads through respiratory droplets … Read more
School is Back — Let’s Have a Safe, Happy, and Healthy School Year
School is back in session! With a new school year upon us, it’s essential to prioritize safety. Here are some valuable safety tips to help parents, guardians, and caregivers ensure their children’s safety as they embark on a new academic journey. Safe Transportation: Whether your child walks, bikes, or takes the bus to school, it’s … Read more
Press Release: Governor Lamont Announces Launch of the Lead Free CT Campaign to Protect Children From the Harmful Health Impacts of Lead
Governor Ned Lamont announced Wednesday the launch of Lead Free CT, a new campaign overseen by the Connecticut Department of Public Health with the goal of protecting children from the harmful health impacts of lead and creating a lead-free Connecticut. Its objectives of include: Making older homes where children or pregnant people live lead safe; … Read more
What Vaccines Do You Need? Check Out CDC’s New Assessment Tool
Vaccination isn’t just for kids — adults need to stay protected too. Understanding which vaccines you need as an adult can be challenging, especially with varying recommendations based on factors like age, lifestyle, and medical history. To make this process easier, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has introduced a new online resource: … Read more
National Immunization Awareness Month: Protecting Ourselves, Our Families, and Our Community
August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM), a month highlighting the significance of vaccination for individuals of all ages. Routine immunization is a cornerstone of public health, safeguarding communities from the consequences of preventable diseases. The Power of Vaccination Vaccines have been instrumental in eradicating or significantly reducing the spread of numerous infectious diseases. By … Read more
Visit the Uncas Mobile Health Team — Now in Griswold Every Tuesday
Uncas Health District’s Mobile Health Team makes several stops each week throughout the district’s 11 cities and towns, but now, we will be visiting Griswold every Tuesday from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. Those who live in or near Griswold are encouraged to stop by the lower parking lot behind Griswold Town Hall to access a … Read more
What to Do If You Spot a Potentially Rabies-Infected Animal
Rabies is a serious viral disease that affects the nervous system of mammals, including humans. In the U.S., the risk of humans contracting rabies is relatively low. However, it’s essential to be aware of the signs of rabies in animals, how to prevent exposure, and what to do if you think you may have been … Read more
State Reports First Positive Mosquitoes for EEE Virus in Eastern Connecticut
The State of Connecticut Mosquito Management Program (MMP) announced that mosquitoes trapped in Canterbury on July 16 tested positive for eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus. These results represent the first EEE positive mosquitoes identified in the state by The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) this year. The mosquitoes were Culiseta melanura, a predominately bird-biting species … Read more
Tick Bite Bot: Interactive Tool Kit for Tick Bites Now on Uncas HD Website
We are excited to announce a new feature on the Uncas Health District website — a cutting-edge interactive tick bite management tool provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This tool is designed to help you assess tick bites and provide clear, step-by-step instructions for safely removing ticks and taking appropriate actions … Read more
Preventing Mosquito-Borne Illnesses in the Summer Months
As the summer months bring warmth and outdoor activities, they also bring mosquitoes. These tiny insects are more than just a nuisance; they can transmit several serious illnesses. Understanding how to avoid mosquito bites, what to do if bitten, and recognizing the symptoms of mosquito-borne illnesses is crucial for enjoying a healthy summer. Common Mosquito-Borne … Read more