Latest Uncas Health District News
Winter Safety: Tips for Snow Removal and Cold Exposure
Winter has fully arrived in Eastern Connecticut — making it important to understand that shoveling snow requires proper precautions to prevent health consequences. By adopting safe practices and remaining vigilant about potential hazards, you can navigate the season safely and comfortably. Protecting Yourself from Overexertion: Shoveling is strenuous: Recognize that clearing snow is a physically … Read more
January is National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month — What You Need to Know
January marks National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. The American Cancer Society estimated there will have been about 13,960 new cases of invasive cancer diagnosed, and about 4,310 women will have died from cervical cancer in 2023. The 2020 CDC data for Connecticut shows there were 96 cases reported, equaling a cervical cancer rate of 4.8 … Read more
Chasing the Winter Blues Away: Minimizing the Impact of Seasonal Affective Disorder
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, many people experience a shift in their mood and energy levels. This seasonal change can trigger a type of depression known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD is characterized by a recurrent pattern of depressive symptoms that begin and end at about the same time each … Read more
Understanding the Difference: Common Cold vs. Flu
As the seasons change, seasonal illnesses like the common cold and influenza often increase, often leaving many unsure whether they’re battling a cold or the flu. In the 11 cities and towns that make up the Uncas Health District, understanding the differences between these ailments becomes crucial for timely treatment and prevention. Symptoms Common Cold: … Read more
Uncas Health District Offering Flu Vaccine Clinics Throughout December
Uncas Health District will be offering a number of Flu Vaccine Clinics throughout December. Mondays in December (except Dec. 25) 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Please call (860) 823-1189 to make an appointment. Tuesday, December 26 + Thursday, December 28 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Walk-ins accepted. No appointment necessary.
DPH Confirms Connecticut’s First Flu and RSV Deaths of Season
The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed the first deaths of state residents due to influenza (flu) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) for the 2023-24 respiratory viral disease season. The influenza death occurred in an adult resident, 80-89 years old, from Middlesex County, and the RSV death occurred in an adult resident, 80-89 years old, from New Haven County. No other information on these patients will be released.
National Diabetes Month: Take Charge of Your Tomorrow
November is National Diabetes Month, a time to raise awareness about diabetes and its prevention. Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of people around the world. It occurs when the body is unable to properly produce or use insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. The theme of National Diabetes Month … Read more
Reminder: Flu Vaccinations for Young Children Required by Dec. 31
Attention Connecticut parents with children under 5: The clock is ticking on getting your little ones ready for flu season. To keep everyone healthy and happy in classrooms this winter, remember that Connecticut immunization regulations require a minimum of one dose of influenza vaccine for children under five each year between August 1st and December … Read more
Connecticut Department of Public Health stresses lead prevention safety
Oct. 22 – 28 is National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week. This awareness campaign aims to bring together individuals, organizations, industry, and state, tribal, and local governments to increase lead poisoning prevention awareness in order to reduce childhood exposure to lead.
Updated COVID-19 vaccines are available — find out where to get yours
Although COVID-19 vaccines have been widely available for nearly 3 years, millions of people still have not been vaccinated. Additionally, the virus is constantly evolving, and new variants that are more transmissible and/or resistant to vaccines can emerge.
That is why it is still crucial for those who have not yet been vaccinated to get their COVID-19 vaccines and for those who have been vaccinated to get their 2023-2024 updated COVID-19 vaccines.