Latest UNCASHD News

Cold Streak: Winter Safety Risks to Avoid During Extended Frigid Weather

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A single bitterly cold night is tough. But when ice-cold temperatures hang around for several days, the risks can stack up fast — especially if the power goes out, your home heating is disrupted, or you're improvising to stay warm. Here are the biggest dangers to keep on your radar, plus practical steps you can take to stay safe.

Carbon monoxide: the invisible, fast-moving danger

When heat or electricity is interrupted, people often turn to generators or alternative heat sources. The problem: Carbon monoxide (CO) is colorless and odorless, and it can build up quickly indoors.

High-risk scenarios include:

  • Running a generator in a garage, basement, shed, or near open windows/doors

  • Using charcoal grills, camp stoves, or other outdoor cooking devices indoors

  • Using fuel-burning heaters that aren’t properly vented

Safer habits that save lives:

  • Run generators outdoors only—more than 20 feet from the home, doors, and windows, and aim exhaust away from the house.

  • Install CO alarms (and check batteries). CO alarms are especially important if you use any fuel-burning equipment.

  • If anyone develops headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, or unusual sleepiness, get to fresh air immediately and call for help—CO poisoning can mimic the flu, but it’s far more urgent.

Winter fire hazards: space heaters and “temporary fixes”

Cold spells also increase home fire risk because we’re using more heat sources—often in bedrooms, living rooms, and near fabrics.

Common winter fire causes:

  • Space heaters too close to curtains, bedding, furniture, or clutter

  • Overloaded outlets, power strips, or extension cords

  • Improper use of ovens or stovetops for heat

  • Fireplace/wood stove misuse or poor maintenance

Reduce fire risk with these basics:

Heating equipment—especially space heaters and heating stoves—accounts for a large share of home heating fire deaths and injuries.

Cold exposure: frostbite and hypothermia can happen faster than you think

When temperatures drop below 20°F, your body loses heat quickly — especially if you’re wet, in the wind, or outside for extended periods (shoveling, walking pets, waiting for a ride, clearing cars).

Frostbite timeline (the key factor is wind chill):

  • The National Weather Service wind chill guidance shows exposed skin can freeze in about 30 minutes under certain wind chill conditions (and faster in more extreme wind chills).

  • Example from NWS materials: 0°F with a 15 mph wind can create a wind chill of around -19°F, at which frostbite can occur in ~30 minutes.

Protect yourself and others:

  • Dress in layers; cover hands, ears, and face; wear wind-resistant outer layers.

  • Take frequent warm-up breaks when shoveling or working outside.

  • Check on neighbors, older adults, and anyone without reliable heat.

Home hazards during deep cold: ice, falls, and roof damage

Icy walkways and slips

Falls are one of the most common winter injuries — often right at home.

  • Clear and treat steps/sidewalks promptly with rock salt or a de-icer, and use sand or kitty litter for traction when needed.

  • Wear footwear with good traction; take short steps and use handrails.

Ice dams and water damage

After cycles of melting and refreezing, ice dams can form along roof edges. When that happens, water can back up under shingles and leak into attics and walls — leading to ceiling damage, insulation issues, and mold risk.

What helps:

  • Safely remove roof-edge snow from the ground using a roof rake (avoid climbing onto icy roofs).

  • Address root causes in the long term: attic insulation and ventilation, and keeping gutters clear.

Resources in CT if you don’t have safe heat or shelter

If you or someone you know is homeless, staying somewhere without working heat, or dealing with a loss of electricity/water, help is available:

If someone is in immediate danger from cold exposure, fire, or suspected carbon monoxide poisoning, call 911 right away.

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Public Notice: Certificate of Need Application for Change of Governance of Outpatient Surgical Facility

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This posting is made pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes § 19a-639a, regarding the Certificate of Need application process.

Public Notice

River Valley ASC, LLC, SCA-River Valley, LLC, and HHC Surgery Center Holdings, LLC are filing a Certificate of Need Application pursuant to Section 19a-638 of the Connecticut General Statutes for the change in governance of an outpatient surgical facility. HHC Surgery Center Holdings, LLC will request CON approval to assume an additional seat on the Board of Managers of SCA-River Valley, LLC, the majority owner of River Valley Ambulatory Surgical Center, LLC. River Valley Ambulatory Surgery Center, LLC owns and operates River Valley Ambulatory Surgery Center, a licensed outpatient surgical facility located at 45 Salem Turnpike in Norwich.  The proposal is part of a phased transaction and has no associated capital expenditure.

 

UPDATE: Governor Extends Cold Severe Cold Weather Protocol Through Feb. 5

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Governor Ned Lamont has extended Connecticut’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol through Thursday, February 5, 2026, as forecasts indicate extremely cold temperatures will continue into early February.

This is expected to be an exceptionally frigid period, delivering some of the coldest temperatures the state has experienced so far this season, particularly overnight. Over the next week, temperatures are likely to range from a high of 28 degrees and a low of -2 degrees with wind chills reaching -19 degrees at times.

The purpose of the protocol is to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from severe cold, which can be life-threatening if exposed to the elements for extended periods. While enacted, a system is set up for state agencies and municipalities to coordinate with United Way 2-1-1 and Connecticut’s network of shelters to make sure that anyone in need can access shelter from the outdoors, including transportation to shelters.

Anyone in need of shelter or a warming center is urged to visit 211ct.org or call 2-1-1 to find available locations. Transportation can be provided if necessary.

“We’re about to experience some of the coldest weather Connecticut has had in quite a while, and it cannot be stressed enough that temperatures this low can be fatal if someone is outside for too long,” Governor Lamont said. “This protocol enables us to partner with municipalities and nonprofits to see that shelters and warming centers are available for anyone in need. I also urge everyone to bring their pets indoors during this period because these conditions can be extremely dangerous for them, as well.”

The following actions are implemented while the protocol is enacted:

  • The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security uses its WebEOC communications network, an internet-based system that enables local, regional, and state emergency management officials and first responders to share up-to-date information on a variety of situations and conditions. The system monitors capacity at shelters across the state, enabling 2-1-1 to act as a clearinghouse to help find shelter space for those who need it. Local officials, working through WebEOC, can alert 2-1-1 and the state when they open temporary shelters or warming centers.
  • The Connecticut Department of Social Services, Connecticut Department of Housing, and Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services coordinate with 2-1-1 and the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness, along with community-based providers, to provide transportation for people seeking shelter.

For emergency management news and resources, visit the state’s CTPrepares website at ct.gov/ctprepares.

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Recall Alert: FDA Investigating Salmonella Outbreak Linked to “Super Greens” Dietary Supplement

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Cases have been reported across the U.S., including Connecticut

Federal health officials are investigating a multistate Salmonella Typhimurium outbreak linked to a popular greens powder sold online — and Connecticut is among the states reporting cases.

What Product is Involved?

The FDA says the outbreak is linked to Live it Up-brand Super Greens dietary supplement powder (including Original and Wild Berry flavors). The company has issued a recall covering products (including stick packs) with expiration dates from 08/2026 to 01/2028, and the FDA notes the recalled items include lots beginning with the letter “A.”

These products were primarily sold online, including through the Live it Up website and major online marketplaces.

How Big is the Outbreak?

As of the FDA/CDC update on January 15, 2026, officials report 45 illnesses across 21 states, including 12 hospitalizations and no deaths. Connecticut is listed among the affected states.

Symptoms to Watch for

Salmonella infection often causes diarrhea, fever, and stomach/abdominal cramps. Symptoms typically begin within a few days after exposure and usually last about a week. Some people—especially children under 5, adults 65+, and people with weakened immune systems—are more likely to have severe illness.

CDC recommends contacting a healthcare provider right away if you have severe symptoms such as:

  • Diarrhea with a fever higher than 102°F

  • Diarrhea lasting more than 3 days or bloody diarrhea

  • Vomiting that prevents keeping liquids down

  • Signs of dehydration (low urination, dry mouth, dizziness)

What Consumers Should Do Now

If you have this product at home:

  1. Do not consume it. Throw it away or return it for a refund (per the company’s instructions).

  2. Clean and sanitize any containers, counters, scoops, or surfaces the powder may have touched.

  3. If you develop symptoms, contact your healthcare provider and let them know if you recently used the recalled greens powder.

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Peak Flu Season Is Here — Why Vigilance Matters (Especially in 2026)

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Every winter, influenza shows up in a familiar way: schools and workplaces see more absences, urgent care wait times climb, and many households cycle through coughs, fevers, and fatigue. That’s because flu season in the U.S. typically ramps up in fall and winter, with flu activity most often peaking between December and February — and historically, February is the most common peak month.

That timing matters. When we hit the “peak,” flu spreads more easily, more people are contagious at the same time, and the chance of bringing illness into your home, workplace, or social circle goes up. The good news: a few practical habits—done consistently—can make a real difference.

Flu Shots are Still Too Low, and Fewer Doses Have Been Given in Key Settings

As of early January 2026, CDC survey data show that 44.1% of adults have received a flu shot. That means more than half of adults are still unvaccinated during the heart of flu season.

At the same time, CDC’s weekly dashboard (based on claims data) indicates fewer flu vaccine doses have been administered to adults in retail pharmacies and physician medical offices compared with the same point last season. As of December 20, 2025, an estimated 33.2 million adult doses were given in pharmacies (about 1.8 million fewer than last season), and 18.3 million were given in medical offices (about 807,163 fewer). That’s roughly 2.6 million fewer doses in those two settings combined.

Bottom line: even with vaccination available in many convenient places, too many people remain unprotected—and that creates more opportunities for flu to spread and cause severe illness.

It’s Not Too Late to Get Vaccinated

CDC recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone ages 6 months and older who doesn’t have contraindications. And while the vaccine isn’t perfect, the CDC notes that even when circulating viruses differ from what’s expected, vaccination still helps protect against severe illness, hospitalization, and death.

If you’ve been meaning to get a flu shot, this is your nudge: it can still help—especially for older adults, young children, pregnant people, and anyone with chronic medical conditions.

Common-Sense Ways to Prevent Flu (and Other Winter Respiratory Illnesses)

Think of flu prevention like layers. No single step is flawless, but stacking a few habits dramatically improves your odds.

1) Stay Home When You’re Sick

One of the most powerful ways to stop the spread is also the simplest: don’t share your germs. CDC advises returning to normal activities only when, for at least 24 hours, both are true:

  • Your symptoms are improving overall, and

  • You’ve had no fever without using fever-reducing medication.

2) Cover Coughs and Sneezes — and Consider a Mask in Crowded Indoor Spaces

Flu spreads mainly through respiratory droplets when people cough, sneeze, or talk. Covering your mouth and nose helps, and if you’re sick (or caring for someone who is), a well-fitting mask adds an extra layer that can reduce the spread to others.

3) Wash Hands Often — and Avoid Touching Your Face

Handwashing (or using alcohol-based sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available) reduces the risk of transferring germs from surfaces to your eyes, nose, or mouth.

4) Improve Indoor Air When Possible

Fresh air and cleaner air matter more than many people realize. CDC includes taking steps to improve air quality—bringing in outdoor air, using filtration, or choosing outdoor gatherings when practical—as part of efforts to reduce respiratory virus spread.

5) Clean “High-Touch” Surfaces During Illness Waves

Doorknobs, light switches, phones, remote controls, and countertops are constantly handled—especially in shared spaces. Regular cleaning during a household illness can help reduce spread.

6) Keep Your Body Resilient

Good sleep, hydration, nutritious food, and stress management won’t “block” flu on their own—but they support your immune system and recovery if you do get sick.

Know the Symptoms — and Act Early if You’re High-Risk

Flu often comes on suddenly. Common symptoms include fever or chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, and fatigue (sometimes vomiting/diarrhea, more often in children).

If you’re in a group at higher risk for complications (including young children, adults 65+, pregnant people, and those with certain medical conditions), CDC recommends contacting a healthcare provider early if symptoms start—because antiviral medications work best when started within about 2 days of symptom onset.

When to Seek Urgent or Emergency Care

Most people recover at home, but the flu can become serious. CDC lists emergency warning signs that should prompt immediate medical attention. A few key examples include:

In adults: difficulty breathing/shortness of breath, chest or abdominal pain/pressure, confusion or inability to arouse, seizures, not urinating, severe weakness, or symptoms that improve then worsen.

In children: fast or troubled breathing, bluish lips/face, ribs pulling in with breaths, chest pain, dehydration, seizures, high fever not controlled by medicine, or symptoms that improve then worsen.

If you’re unsure, call your healthcare provider for guidance.

A Community Reminder from the Uncas Health District

Flu season peak is exactly when small choices add up: getting vaccinated, staying home when sick, and protecting others in shared indoor spaces. Whether you’re looking out for a newborn in the family, an older neighbor, a coworker with a chronic condition, or your own household, these steps help reduce the spread of flu and similar respiratory illnesses.

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Resolutions That Stick: A Realistic Approach to a Healthy New Year

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Older man walking on a treadmill.

When the calendar flips, it’s tempting to aim for a total life overhaul. But from a public health perspective, the most powerful resolutions aren’t the most extreme—they’re the ones that reduce risk, build protective habits, and make it easier for you (and the people around you) to stay healthy all year long.

If you’re making New Year’s resolutions, consider selecting a few that improve long-term health outcomes and promote community well-being. Here are practical, high-impact ideas—plus tips to make them realistic and sustainable.

1) Make “Prevention” Your #1 Health Goal

Preventive care is one of the strongest predictors of better long-term health. A simple resolution: stay up to date on checkups, vaccines, and screenings.

Try this:

  • Schedule your annual physical (or wellness visit).

  • Ask what screenings you’re due for (blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, colon cancer, cervical cancer, breast cancer, etc.).

  • Review vaccines for your age and health status (including seasonal vaccines).

  • Keep a list of all medications and supplements you take, and bring it to every appointment.

2) Move More — Without the “All or Nothing” Trap

Physical activity supports heart health, mental well-being, sleep quality, balance, and overall health. The key is consistency, not perfection.

Try this:

  • Pick a minimum you can hit even on busy days (example: a 10-minute walk).

  • Attach movement to something you already do: after coffee, after dinner, or during one phone call each day.

  • Add strength-building twice a week (bodyweight exercises count).

3) Treat Your Sleep Like it’s a Health Appointment

Sleep affects mood, immunity, weight regulation, focus, and the risk of chronic diseases. A strong resolution: build a predictable sleep routine.

Try this:

  • Choose a consistent wake-up time.

  • Set a “screens down” reminder 30–60 minutes before bed.

  • Create a wind-down routine: dim the lights, stretch, read, take a shower, or listen to something calming.

  • If you snore loudly, stop breathing during sleep, or feel exhausted despite enough hours, talk to a healthcare provider.

4) Eat in a Way You Can Sustain (and Enjoy)

Public health nutrition isn’t about strict rules—it’s about patterns that support energy, stable blood sugar, heart health, and gut health over time.

Try this:

  • Add one “default” healthy breakfast or lunch you can repeat.

  • Aim to include a fruit or vegetable at most meals.

  • Keep convenient, nourishing options on hand (frozen vegetables, beans, canned fish, plain yogurt, nuts).

  • Hydrate intentionally—carry a water bottle and refill it.

5) Support Your Mental Health — Proactively

Mental health is health. Consider a resolution that strengthens coping skills before stress hits.

Try this:

  • Schedule one meaningful connection each week.

  • Build a “stress first aid kit”: music, movement, journaling, a breathing app, and a short outdoor break.

  • Consider therapy, support groups, or coaching if stress, anxiety, depression, or grief is weighing you down.

  • If alcohol or substances are your primary coping tool, make a plan to add healthier supports—and reach out for help if you need it.

If you or someone you know is in crisis in the U.S., you can call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

6) Make Your Home a Safer Place

Many preventable injuries and exposures happen at home. A few small steps can reduce risk for everyone in your household.

Try this:

  • Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors; replace batteries if needed.

  • Store medications, cannabis products, alcohol, and cleaning supplies locked and out of reach of children and pets.

  • Review medication expiration dates and dispose of any medications that are no longer needed safely.

  • If you have firearms, store them in a locked, unloaded, and separate location from ammunition.

7) Prevent Infections with Simple, Everyday Habits

Maintaining your own health helps protect those in your community who are more vulnerable, including babies, older adults, and individuals with compromised immune systems.

Try this:

  • Wash your hands regularly (especially before eating and after using the restroom).

  • Cover your coughs and sneezes; stay home when you’re sick if possible.

  • Improve indoor air quality by opening a window, using exhaust fans, or running an air purifier.

  • Keep up with recommended vaccines and boosters.

8) Choose a Safety Resolution that Protects Others

Some of the most life-saving resolutions don’t look like “wellness” goals at first glance.

Try one of these:

  • Buckle up every ride, every seat — make it non-negotiable.

  • Commit to no impaired driving (alcohol, cannabis, or other substances). Make a plan before you go out.

  • Learn CPR and keep your emergency contacts up to date.

  • Keep naloxone available if you or someone close to you may be at risk of opioid overdose.

9) Make One Community-Health Resolution

Health isn’t only individual — your environment, connections, and access to resources matter.

Try this:

  • Check in on a neighbor who lives alone during cold snaps or heat waves.

  • Volunteer locally once a month (food pantries, shelters, community cleanups).

  • Donate blood if you’re eligible.

  • Share verified health information—and pause before reposting rumors online.

10) Make Your Resolutions “SMART,” So They’re Achievable

Instead of: “I’ll get healthy.”
Try: “I’ll walk 10 minutes after dinner 4 days a week.”

Instead of: “I’ll sleep more.”
Try: “I’ll set a 10:30 p.m. bedtime alarm on weekdays.”

A good rule: Start so small you can’t fail, then build.

A Healthier Year Doesn’t Require Perfection

The best resolutions are those that lower risk, strengthen routines, and make your life safer and more resilient—both physically and mentally. Pick 2–3 priorities, write them down, and plan for the weeks when motivation dips (because it will).

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Salmonella Oyster Outbreak: What You Need to Know

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raw oysters

If you’ve enjoyed raw oysters lately—or were planning to for your New Year's celebrations — a recent CDC outbreak notice deserves your immediate attention. In Connecticut, where oysters are a coastal staple, staying informed is the best way to keep your family safe.

On December 23, 2025, the CDC reported an ongoing multistate outbreak of Salmonella Telelkebir infections. While the investigation is still ongoing and no formal recall has been issued yet, the evidence linking raw oysters is significant.

The Outbreak by the Numbers

The CDC is currently tracking a growing number of cases across the country:

  • 64 confirmed illnesses across 22 states.

  • 20 hospitalizations (nearly 1 in 3 cases).

  • 0 deaths reported to date.

  • Illness Timeline: Cases began appearing in June 2025, with the most recent reported in late November.

  • Why investigators are focused on oysters: 74% of sick individuals reported eating raw oysters in the week before falling ill—a rate far higher than the general population.

Connecticut Connection

While this is a national outbreak, it hits close to home. Local reporting from CT Insider indicates that at least two Connecticut residents have already fallen ill.

Because oysters are distributed through complex networks of restaurants and markets, a contaminated batch can end up on a plate anywhere. Even if you aren't eating oysters harvested locally the risk remains present while the source remains unidentified.

How to Stay Safe (Actionable Advice)

Until the CDC identifies the specific source or harvester responsible, the safest course of action is to avoid raw oysters entirely.

If you are a seafood lover, follow these CDC-backed safety tips:

  • Cook Them Thoroughly: Heat kills Salmonella. Opt for fried, baked, broiled, or steamed oysters.

  • Don't Rely on "Cures": Hot sauce, lemon juice, and alcohol do not kill the bacteria. They might add flavor, but they won't prevent infection.

  • Watch for Cross-Contamination: Keep raw seafood and its juices far away from other foods in your kitchen. Wash all surfaces and utensils thoroughly after they have come into contact with raw shellfish.

  • Know Your Risk: If you are over 65, under 5, or immunocompromised, the CDC strongly advises against consuming raw shellfish altogether, as you are at a significantly higher risk for severe illness.

Symptoms: When to Call a Doctor

Salmonella symptoms usually appear within 6 hours to 6 days of eating contaminated food. Most people recover in about a week, but you should contact a healthcare provider immediately if you experience:

  1. A fever higher than 102°F.

  2. Bloody diarrhea or diarrhea lasting more than 3 days.

  3. Severe vomiting that prevents you from keeping liquids down.

  4. Dehydration (signs include dry mouth, dizziness, and infrequent urination).

How to Help: Report Suspected Illness

Reporting your illness is the fastest way for public health officials to "connect the dots" and stop the spread of the outbreak.

  • Contact your local health department first if you believe you became ill from a specific restaurant or store.

  • Unsure who to call? Contact the CT Department of Public Health Food Protection Program at (860) 509-7297.

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First Measles Case Reported in Connecticut Since 2021

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measles virus

The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced that it has confirmed a case of measles in an unvaccinated Fairfield County child under the age of 10.  This is the first case of measles in Connecticut in more than four years.  Nationwide, more than 1,800 cases of measles have been reported in 2025 – the most since the virus was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000 and the most cases in more than three decades, according to the International Vaccine Access Center.

The child recently travelled internationally and began showing symptoms of measles several days later. Those symptoms included cough, runny nose, congestion, fever, and eventually a rash that started at the head and spread throughout their body.

Measles is a highly contagious disease that can spread quickly through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.  According to the CDC, 9 out of 10 unvaccinated individuals who encounter an infected person will become infected with the measles virus. Measles can be dangerous, especially for children under the age of five.  About 1 in 5 unvaccinated people in the U.S. who get measles end up being hospitalized.

Symptoms of measles generally begin 7-14 days after exposure to an infected person. A typical case of measles begins with mild to moderate fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes (conjunctivitis), and sore throat.  Three to five days after the start of these symptoms, a red or reddish-brown rash appears, usually starting on a person’s face at the hairline and spreading downward to the entire body. At the time the rash appears, a person’s fever may spike to more than 104 degrees Fahrenheit.

“The single best way to protect your children and yourself from measles is to be vaccinated,” said DPH Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD. “One dose of measles vaccine is about 93% effective, while two doses are about 97% effective. We must ensure we continue to protect those who matter most – children and other vulnerable people – from vaccine-preventable illnesses through on-time vaccination.”

DPH, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and several other reputable public health and medical societies recommend that all children get two doses of the MMR vaccine, starting with the first dose at 12 through 15 months of age, and the second dose at 4 through 6 years of age. According to the 2024-2025 Statewide School Immunization Survey, 98.2% of Connecticut students were vaccinated with two doses of MMR by the time they entered kindergarten (compared to 92.5% nationally). Connecticut’s MMR vaccination rate is the highest in the nation.

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Tips for a Safe and Healthy Holiday Season

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Friends enjoying a holiday celebration

The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness, and celebration. However, with festive activities come unique safety and health concerns. To ensure your holiday is merry and bright, consider these essential tips for staying safe and healthy.

Holiday Decoration Safety

Holiday decorations set the mood, but they can pose fire hazards if not handled properly.

  • Inspect Lights Before Use: Examine light strands for frayed wires, broken bulbs, or loose connections. Replace damaged items before plugging them in.
  • Avoid Overloading Outlets: Too many devices on a single outlet can lead to overheating and potential fires. Use surge protectors and distribute the load across different circuits.
  • Choose Safe Trees: If you’re opting for a real tree, ensure it’s fresh by checking for green, flexible needles that don’t fall off easily. Keep the tree well-watered to prevent it from drying out.
  • Candle Caution: Never leave lit candles unattended, and keep them away from flammable materials like curtains or decorations. Battery-operated candles are a safer alternative.

Food Safety for Holiday Feasts

With guests gathering around the table, food safety is extremely important.

  • Plan Ahead: Ensure you have enough space in your refrigerator and freezer to store perishable items safely.
  • Prevent Cross-Contamination: Use separate cutting boards for raw meats and other foods, and wash hands and surfaces thoroughly after handling raw ingredients.
  • Hold That Temperature: Keep cold foods cold (at, or below 41 degrees) and keep hot foods hot (at, or above 135 degrees)
  • Cook Food Thoroughly: Use a food thermometer to check that meats are cooked to their recommended internal temperatures.
  • Refrigerate Leftovers Promptly: Store leftovers within two hours of serving to prevent bacterial growth.

Responsible Alcohol Consumption

Holiday celebrations often include festive drinks, but responsible consumption is key to staying safe.

  • Know Your Limits: Avoid drinking on an empty stomach, and pace yourself to prevent overindulgence.
  • Provide Alternatives: If hosting, offer non-alcoholic beverages like sparkling water, mocktails, or festive punches for guests who choose not to drink.
  • Arrange Safe Transportation: If alcohol is part of the celebration, ensure guests have a designated driver or access to rideshare services.

General Holiday Health Tips

Beyond safety, maintaining health during the holidays is equally important.

  • Stay Active: Incorporate physical activity into your routine to offset holiday indulgences. A brisk walk after a big meal can help with digestion and keep energy levels up.
  • Get Enough Sleep: Late-night gatherings can interfere with rest, so aim to prioritize quality sleep whenever possible.
  • Manage Stress: The holidays can be overwhelming. Delegate tasks set realistic expectations, and take time for yourself to relax and recharge.

DPH Highlights National Influenza Vaccination Week

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man getting flu vaccine.

The state vaccination rate has declined 6 percent compared to last year.

The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) is urging everyone to give the gift of health, not only to themselves, but also to their family and community, this season by getting vaccinated against respiratory viruses during National Influenza Vaccination Week. The annual observance serves as a reminder that it is not too late to get vaccinated, as we enter peak season that can extend into the spring.

Dec. 1-5 is National Influenza Vaccination Week, and in Connecticut, we have had over 600 flu cases in November. Last month, DPH confirmed the first death from influenza virus this 2025-26 season was an adult Hartford County resident, 80-89 –years old. There have been nine COVID-19 deaths reported this season and zero RSV deaths.

“As we prepare for travel and celebrations in close quarters, we also enter the peak season for respiratory illnesses like influenza, COVID-19, and RSV,” said DPH Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD. “One of the best ways to ensure a safe and healthy celebration for everyone is by ensuring you and your family are up to date on all recommended vaccinations. If you haven’t gotten your seasonal shots, it’s not too late to protect yourself from potential serious complications and protect our vulnerable populations, including infants, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems who may not be able to get vaccinated themselves.”

Unfortunately, seasonal vaccination rates have declined over the last year. In Connecticut, 1,004,668 residents have been vaccinated against influenza this season so far, compared to 1,068,938 at the same time last year, representing a 6 percent decrease. Similarly, 309,199 doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered so far this year, compared to over 432,259 at the same time last season, representing a 28.5 percent decrease.

Vaccines have been rigorously tested and examined for decades and are one of the most significant public health achievements in human history. It typically takes about two weeks for your body to build complete immunity after a shot, so getting vaccinated now ensures you're protected in time for upcoming gatherings.

CT DPH’s current vaccine and prevention guidance to prevent respiratory viral diseases is:

Everyone 6 months of age or older should receive an annual dose of the influenza vaccine.

Everyone 6 months of age or older should receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine.

Adults 60 years of age and older, as well as pregnant individuals, are eligible to receive an RSV vaccine (Abrysvo). A monoclonal antibody, Nirsevimab (Beyfortus), is recommended for all infants younger than 8 months of age who are born during—or who are entering—RSV season.

Residents can receive their vaccines from their healthcare provider, a retail pharmacy, or by visiting vaccinefinder.org to find a vaccination location near them.

For more information on current respiratory virus cases, hospitalizations, and deaths, please visit here.

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