Latest Uncas Health District News
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
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