Latest Uncas Health District News
RECALL ALERT: Gerber ‘Soothe N Chew’ Teething Sticks Recalled for Choking Hazard
Gerber Products Company is initiating a recall and discontinuation of all batches of GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS due to a potential choking hazard for babies and young children. GERBER® SOOTHE N CHEW® TEETHING STICKS were distributed nationwide via the internet and to distribution centers and retail stores in the following states and territories: … Read more
Stay Informed About Bird Flu: What You Need to Know
Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is a viral infection that primarily affects birds but can occasionally spread to humans. While the current risk to the general public remains low, it’s important to stay informed and take simple precautions to protect yourself and your community. What Is Bird Flu? Bird flu is caused by … Read more
Cancer Prevention Month: Taking Action to Reduce Your Risk
Every February, Cancer Prevention Month serves as a reminder that while cancer remains a formidable health challenge, many cases are preventable through lifestyle choices and proactive health measures. With an estimated 2 million Americans diagnosed with cancer (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer) in 2024 and more than 600,000 cancer-related deaths, the urgency for awareness and prevention … Read more
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) Detected in New London County
The Connecticut Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg) advises that Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1, or bird flu, was confirmed in a backyard flock in New London County on Wednesday, January 15, 2025. The backyard flock, consisting of chickens, ducks, and peacocks, were family pets, not commercial poultry, and had close contact with wild waterfowl … Read more
DMHAS, DPH Launch Toolkit for Help Facilities Treat Opioid Use Disorder
The Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) and the Department of Public Health (DPH) have introduced a new resource to help long-term care facilities (LTCFs) better serve residents with opioid use disorder (OUD). The Strategies for Supporting Residents with Opioid Use Disorder in Long-Term Care toolkit provides a roadmap for delivering trauma-informed, recovery-oriented … Read more
DPH Stresses Importance of Radon Testing During Winter Months
In recognition of National Radon Action Month, which takes place in January, the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) urges Connecticut residents to test their homes for radon gas, the leading environmental cause of cancer deaths. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Overall, radon is … Read more
Recall Alert: Mochi Sorbet Product Recalled for Egg Content
The Mochi Ice Cream Company LLC, Vernon, California, is recalling 1350 cases of Peach Mango Sorbet because it may contain undeclared pasteurized cooked egg white. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to eggs run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume these products. My Mochi Peach Mango Sorbet was distributed nationwide … Read more
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