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Why Early Fall is the Ideal Time to Get Your Flu Vaccine

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Woman with a cold on autumn background

As we transition into the crisp, cool days of fall, it’s the perfect time to think about protecting yourself and your loved ones from the flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone aged six months and older get a flu vaccine every year, with September and October being the optimal months for most people to receive their shot. Here’s why getting vaccinated during these early fall months is important for your health and the well-being of your community.

The Importance of Flu Vaccines

Flu vaccines are your best defense against the influenza virus, which can cause mild to severe illness and even lead to hospitalization or death, especially among high-risk populations like the elderly, young children, and those with chronic health conditions. By getting vaccinated, you’re not only protecting yourself but also helping to shield vulnerable members of the community who may be at higher risk for serious complications.

Influenza is not a virus to be taken lightly. From 2018 to 2022, influenza and pneumonia combined were responsible for 47,052 deaths in the United States, making it the 12th leading cause of death with a mortality rate of 14.1 deaths per 100,000 people. Specifically, influenza accounted for 5,944 deaths, or 1.8 deaths per 100,000 people, during the same period. These statistics underscore the significant impact that influenza can have on public health, particularly in seasons when the flu virus is more virulent or when vaccine coverage is lower.

Why September and October Are the Best Times

The flu season typically begins in the fall and peaks in the winter months, which is why getting vaccinated in September or October is ideal. The vaccine takes about two weeks to build up sufficient immunity, so by getting your shot in early fall, you ensure that you’re protected before flu activity becomes widespread. Vaccinating early also helps to minimize the spread of the virus within the community, especially to those who may be more susceptible to severe outcomes.

Where to Get Your Flu Vaccine

Flu vaccines are widely available and easy to access. You can receive your vaccine at various locations, including your healthcare provider’s office, local pharmacies, and community health centers. In Connecticut, residents can also get vaccinated through the Uncas Health District and the Mobile Health Team, which offer convenient and accessible options for receiving the flu shot.

Protect Yourself and Your Community

By getting vaccinated against the flu this fall, you’re playing an active role in safeguarding your health and the health of those around you. It’s a simple step that can make a significant difference, particularly as we head into the colder months when flu activity tends to rise. Don’t wait — plan your flu vaccine today and help prevent the spread of this serious illness.

Uncas Health District will begin administering or offering flu vaccines as of October 1st.  High dose and regular flu vaccines will be available for anyone aged 6 months and up.  The following insurances are accepted with a zero copay: Anthem, Cigna, ConnectiCare, Medicare, and TriCare.  All others will have a $20 copay.  Flu clinics will be offered with no appointment necessary in the office on Mondays from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. in October and November.

Uncas Health District Offering Online Free Programs to Help People Quit Tobacco

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quit smoking

Uncas Health District is offering a tobacco cessation (quit smoking) program to help adults quit using tobacco and electronic nicotine delivery (vaping) products. The program’s goal is to remove common barriers by offering quit aids, coaching, and social support at no cost.

Programs are open to those who live or work in Eastern Connecticut. The program uses the American Lung Association’s “Freedom from Smoking®” curriculum to help participants quit tobacco in eight sessions over seven weeks. Participants will receive free nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gum, and lozenges). Individual counseling is available by appointment if interested participants can’t attend the group program or would prefer one-on-one support.

The first class starts on Monday, September 16th, 2024, at 6:30 pm via ZOOM.

“Quitting tobacco is a huge step towards improving your health and preventing disease. Ask any former tobacco user; it’s the best decision they’ve ever made,” said Program Facilitator Carolyn Wilson. “Sometimes it takes several attempts to be successful, but creating a plan, seeking support, and developing a set of strategies is the best course of action. It’s important to never give up on the journey to becoming tobacco-free.”

This program is supported by the Health & Human Services Block Grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The tobacco cessation program is FREE.  A reliable internet connection with access to the ZOOM platform is needed.

Participants will receive a free program workbook, FREE nicotine replacement therapy and other helpful quit aids. To register for the program, contact Carolyn Wilson at (860) 400-2072 (call or text).

National Preparedness Month: Are You Ready for the Unexpected?

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Father and son assemble the emergency evacuation bag together and put necessary items into backpacks

September is National Preparedness Month, a reminder that emergencies can happen anywhere, at any time. Whether it’s a natural disaster, a health crisis, or an unforeseen event, being prepared can make all the difference. Do you know what kinds of hazards are common where we live, work, and travel? From hurricanes to wildfires to power outages, each region has its own risks. But whatever hazards we face, it’s important to have a plan for safety before, during, and after any emergency.

In 2024, the National Preparedness Month Theme is “Start a Conversation.” Initiating a conversation today can empower you and your family to take more steps toward preparedness. By making small efforts, you can gradually strengthen your readiness at your own pace.

Choose a time when everyone is calm and at ease. It might be helpful to spread the discussions out over a set period, allowing for more thoughtful decisions and ensuring everyone feels comfortable discussing the topic. Share the steps you’ve already taken to prepare and invite others to ask questions about preparedness actions that may suit their needs.

Here are some more helpful tips for emergency preparedness:

Stay Connected: Have a Plan

When emergencies strike, staying connected with your family and getting timely information from local officials is crucial. How prepared are you to stay in touch during a crisis? There are some easy ways to ensure you and your family can communicate effectively. Visit the Ready.gov website and create a free, fillable family emergency plan. It’s a great way to make sure everyone knows what to do and where to go. Share your plan with your loved ones and ask them to share theirs too!

Get Alerts: Stay Informed

Another important step is staying informed about potential threats. Downloading the free FEMA App is an excellent way to receive warnings and alerts for up to five different locations in the U.S. This app is extremely helpful for those of us who travel or have family in different regions. Additionally, check your phone to ensure it can receive Wireless Emergency Alerts and Emergency Alert System messages. This simple action can give you critical information when you need it most.

Plan for Evacuation: Know Where to Go

Do you know where you and your pets will go if you’re told to evacuate? Whether it’s a friend or relative’s house, a community shelter, or a hotel in another town, it’s important to have a plan. Visit Ready.gov’s evacuation page and learn how to prepare for a quick and safe evacuation. Take a moment to talk with your family about your evacuation plan so everyone knows where to go and how to get there.

Build a Kit: Be Ready for Everyone in Your Family

When preparing for an emergency, it’s vital to think about the specific needs of each family member. Have you considered what supplies you may need for your kids, older adults, or family members with disabilities? Don’t forget about your pets, either! Check out Ready.gov’s Build A Kit page and learn about the essential items you will need to stay safe and comfortable during and after a disaster. Remember to include things like medications, medical devices, and anything else that’s crucial for your family’s well-being.

Medical Needs: Plan for Power and Temperature

If anyone in your family relies on medical devices or medications that need to be kept at a certain temperature, it’s important to have a plan in place. Do you have backup power supplies or know of places where you can store medicine safely? Ready.gov has guidance on what you should do to prepare before something happens. Taking the time to plan now can prevent a lot of stress later.

Protect Important Items: Keep Your Valuables Safe

Finally, consider how you’ll protect important documents, family mementos, and treasured possessions. Do you have water-resistant plastic bags or containers to keep them safe? Make digital copies of my documents and photos and store them in a password-protected online account. Ready.gov’s Make a Plan page has more tips on how to safeguard these items.

National Preparedness Month is the perfect time to start or update your emergency plans. Visit Ready.gov today to ensure you and your family are prepared for whatever may come your way. Stay safe, stay informed, and be ready!

Sign Up for Text Alerts from Uncas Health District

DEEP to Spray for Mosquitoes in Area of Pachaug State Forest 

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entrance to Pachaug State Forest

While there have been no human cases of EEE in Connecticut so far this season, detections of EEE-carrying mosquitoes in this area remain high. 

While there have been no cases of eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEE) in humans in Connecticut so far this season, the risk level for EEE in the eastern part of the state remains elevated. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Mosquito Management Program will conduct insecticide spraying on the evening of Thursday, August 29 (weather permitting) in an area of eastern Connecticut where mammal-biting mosquitoes carrying EEE have been consistently detected. This step is being taken out of an abundance of caution to minimize the potential for spread of the virus to humans. 

The Mosquito Management Program will spray for mosquitoes in the Mt. Misery area of Pachaug State Forest on the evening of August 29. Entrances to the State Forest will close at 5:00 PM on Thursday, August 29, and the forest and nearby roads will be closed for the evening. They will reopen at 8:00 AM on Friday, August 30. Residential portions of these roads will still remain accessible to residents. 

EEE has been detected in the following towns this year: Canterbury, Ledyard, North Stonington, Sterling, and Voluntown. No human cases have been reported in Connecticut in 2024, but human cases have been reported in Massachusetts, Vermont, New Jersey, and New Hampshire (one death). A white-tailed deer died from EEE earlier in August in Lisbon, Connecticut. 

“DEEP encourages residents to take appropriate precautions as we are still not through the mosquito season,” said DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes. “With the presence of EEE in mosquitoes in eastern Connecticut and West Nile Virus in other areas of the state, it is very important that residents minimize time outdoors during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are prevalent and wear long sleeves and use insect repellent if out at any point during those times.” 

“Mosquitoes are still active, and residents should continue to take measures to prevent mosquito bites, especially during warm evenings when mosquitoes are most active,” said Dr. Philip Armstrong, Medical Entomologist at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station. “There is continued risk for mosquito-borne diseases until the first hard freeze when mosquito activity ends.” 

“Since there is no vaccine for EEE, protection from this virus depends on personal protective measures to decrease exposure to infected mosquitoes,” said Connecticut Department of Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD. “Symptoms from EEE include severe headache and neck stiffness which can result in nausea, vomiting, and dehydration. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.” 

The insecticide the Mosquito Management Program will spray contains the active ingredients sumithrin and prallethrin. When applied at appropriate rates this product does not affect humans, pets or other non-target organisms. Campers have been notified of the spraying and have been advised to leave the area while spraying is conducted. 

The following forest roads will close beginning at 5:00 PM on Thursday, August 29: DEP Trail 1, Gardner Road, Stone Hill Road, Trail 1, Lee Road, Lawrence Road, Trail 2, and Route 49 North entrance. Road gates in these areas will close during this time. Residential portions of these roads still will be accessible to residents. Visitors are advised to plan visits and activities accordingly to avoid the area while spraying is conducted. Campers have been advised to avoid the area until at least 10:00 PM Thursday night and will be permitted to return after 10:00 PM. 

To reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes, residents should: 

  • Minimize time spent outdoors between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. 
  • Consider the use of mosquito repellents containing an EPA-registered active ingredient, including DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone when it is necessary to be outdoors. 
  • Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors for long periods of time, or when mosquitoes are more active. Clothing should be light-colored and loose-fitting and made of tightly woven materials that keep mosquitoes away from the skin. 
  • Be sure door and window screens are tight-fitting and in good repair. 
  • Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in an unscreened structure and to protect infants when outdoors. 

Residents also are encouraged to take steps at home to protect against mosquitoes, such as making sure door and window screens are tight-fitting and in good repair and not letting stagnant water collect around your home. Dump water out of old tires, wheelbarrows, and wading pools. More information on mosquito control around the home can be found on the Connecticut Mosquito Management Program website. 

Connecticut Mosquito Management Program 

The response to mosquito transmitted diseases in Connecticut is a collaborative inter-agency effort involving the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES), the Department of Public Health (DPH), the Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Pathobiology at the University of Connecticut (UCONN). These agencies are responsible for monitoring mosquito populations and the potential public health threat of mosquito-borne diseases. 

For information on EEE, West Nile Virus, and other mosquito-borne diseases, what can be done to prevent getting bitten by mosquitoes, the latest mosquito test results, and human infections, visit the Connecticut Mosquito Management Program website. 

 

Read More About Mosquito-Borne Illnesses

RECALL ALERT: Walmart Apple Juice Recall Impacts Several Eastern CT Stores

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Walmart has issued a voluntary recall of Great Value Apple Juice due to potentially harmful levels of inorganic arsenic. The recall applies to 9,535 cases of “Great Value; 8 oz. Apple Juice in 6 packs; 100% Juice,” which was shipped to stores in 25 states, including several Walmart stores in Connecticut.

Impacted Walmart Stores (Local Stores in Bold)

  • Avon
  • Bristol
  • Brooklyn
  • Berlin
  • Danbury
  • East Windsor
  • Groton
  • Hamden
  • Lisbon
  • Manchester
  • Milford
  • Naugatuck
  • New Haven
  • New Milford
  • Newington
  • North Windham
  • Norwich
  • Old Saybrook
  • Putnam
  • Rocky Hill
  • Shelton
  • Southington
  • Stratford
  • Torrington
  • Wallingford
  • Waterbury
  • Waterford
  • West Haven

More information from the FDA on Arsenic in Food

 

Read the full article from the Associated Press here

DEEP Announces Round 2 of eBike Incentive Program

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The program seeks to improve Connecticut’s air quality and promote sustainable transportation.

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has announced the launch of Round 2 of the eBike Incentive Program, set to open for applications on September 17, 2024, at noon. This round introduces a new application process with a lottery system to select incentive recipients, ensuring a fair and accessible opportunity for all eligible applicants.

Key Dates and Application Process

The application window for Round 2 will be open for 14 days, from September 17, 2024, at noon to October 1, 2024, at 8 p.m. All Connecticut residents interested in participating must complete an electronic application on the eBike Incentive Program platform within this period.

Due to the overwhelming demand seen in Round 1, DEEP has implemented a lottery system for Round 2 to manage the allocation of incentives more equitably. Applicants will be sorted into three tiers based on eligibility criteria, with priority given to those in higher tiers:

  • Tier 1: Participants in a state or federal income qualifying program or individuals with an income less than 300% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
  • Tier 2: Residents of an Environmental Justice (EJ) community or Distressed Municipality.
  • Tier 3: Applicants eligible for the Standard Voucher.

The selection process begins with Tier 1, awarding incentives to as many qualified applicants as funding allows. If funding remains, it progresses to Tier 2 and finally to Tier 3. If the number of applicants exceeds available funding, a lottery will determine recipients within each tier.

eBike Program Overview

The eBike Incentive Program aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality in Connecticut by encouraging the use of eBikes as a cleaner transportation option. The program provides financial incentives through vouchers for purchasing eligible eBikes from participating retailers in Connecticut.

 

Incentives are available at two levels:

  • Standard Voucher: Up to $500 for eligible Connecticut residents, 18 years or older, to reduce the purchase price of an eligible eBike.
  • Voucher+: An additional $750 incentive (totaling $1,250) for those who meet specific criteria, such as participation in income-qualifying programs, having an income less than 300% of the Federal Poverty Level, or residing in an Environmental Justice community or Distressed Municipality.

Why eBikes Matter for Connecticut

Connecticut suffers from some of the worst air quality in the country, mainly along heavily traveled transportation corridors where mobile sources contribute significantly to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Mobile sources account for 40% of Connecticut’s GHG emissions and 70% of nitrogen oxide emissions, which are precursors to ground-level ozone (smog). Poor air quality can exacerbate respiratory issues like asthma, COPD, and other lung diseases.

By promoting eBikes, which are an environmentally friendly alternative to cars for short trips, the program aims to reduce vehicle miles traveled and help Connecticut achieve its air quality and climate change goals.

Funding and Incentives

The eBike Incentive Program is funded under the Connecticut Hydrogen and Electric Automobile Purchase Rebate (CHEAPR) Program. DEEP has budgeted $1.5 million for three years of eBike incentives. For Round 2, DEEP has allocated $750,000, which is expected to support approximately 600 Voucher+ applicants.

How to Apply and Next Steps

To participate in Round 2 of the eBike Incentive Program:

  1. Sign Up: Subscribe to the CT eBike Program mailing list for updates.
  2. Research Eligibility: Review the criteria for each tier and gather any necessary documentation.
  3. Apply: Complete an electronic application on the eBike Incentive Program platform when the window opens on September 17, 2024.

After the application period closes on October 1, 2024, applicants will be notified if they have been selected to receive a voucher. Vouchers must be redeemed at a participating eBike retailer within 240 days of issuance.

Eligible eBikes and Manufacturers

DEEP’s Eligible eBike List includes over 40 models that meet safety and quality criteria. To qualify, eBikes must have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) below $3,000, a one-year warranty on frame and components, and a UL 2849 or EN 15194 safety certification for battery and electrical components.

If you are a manufacturer interested in having your eBike added to the Eligible eBike List, please complete the eBike Eligibility Application and email it to the Center for Sustainable Energy (CSE) at cheapr@energycenter.org.

Contact Information and Support

For more information about the program, including eligibility and required documents, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section on the eBike Program website. For additional assistance, contact the eBike Program Administrator, Center for Sustainable Energy (CSE) at 855-704-6350 or cheapr@energycenter.org. Program staff are available from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET, with 24-hour voicemail access.

The eBike Incentive Program represents a significant step towards cleaner air and more sustainable transportation in Connecticut. By participating, residents can help reduce emissions, improve public health, and positively impact their communities. Be sure to apply during the open window and stay informed by joining the eBike mailing list for the latest updates on this impactful program.

DEEP Reports Case of EEE in White-Tailed Deer in Eastern Connecticut

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pair of white-tailed deer

Eastern Equine Encephalitis Rarely Documented in Wild Mammals; DEEP and DPH Advise Continued Precautions to Avoid Mosquitoes

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) today announced that a white-tailed deer that exhibited neurologic symptoms and died on August 12, 2024, in Lisbon, Connecticut, was infected with the eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus.

EEE is a serious but rare illness caused by a virus that is transmitted by mosquitoes. It is the most severe mosquito-transmitted disease in the U.S., with approximately 40 percent mortality and significant brain damage in half of survivors. No human or horse cases of EEE have been reported in Connecticut this year, although human cases have been documented in Massachusetts, Vermont, and New Jersey.

The CT Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory at the University of Connecticut (UCONN) conducted a necropsy and tested the deer for various diseases, including rabies, hemorrhagic disease, West Nile virus (WNV), and EEE, and determined that the EEE virus caused the deer’s neurologic symptoms.

This finding is rare in wild mammals but is not surprising since EEE-positive mosquitoes have been documented by the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) in nearby towns. However, this finding also indicates that the EEE virus is present in mammal-biting mosquitoes, prompting Connecticut’s Mosquito Management Program to continue to advise residents to take proper precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites, such as wearing mosquito repellent and covering bare skin, especially during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

“DEEP urges residents to continue to take appropriate precautions to avoid contact with mosquitoes,” said DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes. “With EEE now detected in mammal-biting mosquitoes in Eastern Connecticut, residents should continue to be vigilant when taking part in outdoor activities to avoid exposure to mosquito bites.”

“Infection with EEE virus can cause serious illness affecting the brain. Symptoms include high fever, headache, stiff neck, and decreased consciousness,” said Department of Public Health (DPH) Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD. “The disease is fatal in 25-50 percent of cases and many of those who recover experience lasting health problems. Individuals with symptoms suggestive of EEE infection should contact their physician immediately. No human vaccine against EEE virus infection or specific antiviral treatment for clinical EEE virus infections is available.”

The CAES maintains a network of 108 mosquito-trapping stations in 88 municipalities throughout the state to test mosquitoes for various pathogens, including EEE and WNV. So far this season, WNV-positive mosquitoes have been found in 31 towns and EEE-positive mosquitoes have been detected in 5 eastern Connecticut towns: Canterbury, Ledyard, North Stonington, Sterling, and Voluntown. Positive findings are reported to local health departments and on the CAES website.

To reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes, residents should take the following personal precautions:

  • Minimize time spent outdoors when mosquitoes are most active, especially dawn and dusk.
  • Consider the use of mosquito repellents containing an EPA-registered active ingredient, including DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-methane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone when it is necessary to be outdoors.
  • After returning indoors, wash any treated skin with soap and water.
  • Wear shoes, socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors for long periods of time, or when mosquitoes are more active. Clothing should be light-colored and loose-fitting and made of tightly woven materials that keep mosquitoes away from the skin.
  • Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in an unscreened structure and to protect infants when outdoors.

Residents are also encouraged to take steps at home to protect against mosquitoes, such as making sure door and window screens are tight-fitting and in good repair, and not letting stagnant water collect around your home. Dump water out of old tires, wheelbarrows, and wading pools. More information on mosquito control around the home can be found on the Connecticut Mosquito Management Program website.

Late summer and early fall is a popular time to enjoy the wide variety of outdoor recreation opportunities here in Connecticut – such as hiking, camping, fishing, birdwatching, boating or hunting. Anyone enjoying the outdoors in Connecticut should protect themselves against mosquito bites while out in the field.

Fall hunting seasons start soon and extend over the next few months in Connecticut, including the archery deer and turkey season, which opens in mid-September. The EEE virus cannot by contracted by people who eat the meat of harvested animals, although, as with all wild game, the meat should be prepared properly and cooked to the proper temperature.

The response to mosquito transmitted diseases in Connecticut is a collaborative inter-agency effort involving DEEP, CAES, DPH, the Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Pathobiology at UCONN. These agencies are responsible for monitoring mosquito populations and the potential public health threat of mosquito-borne diseases.

For information on WNV and EEE, what can be done to prevent getting bitten by mosquitoes, the latest mosquito test results, and human infections, visit the Connecticut Mosquito Management Program website.

Whooping Cough Cases on the Rise in Connecticut: What You Need to Know

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young boy coughing

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 when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The disease is particularly dangerous for infants and young children, but it can affect individuals of all ages.

Signs and Symptoms:

  • Initial Stage (Catarrhal Phase): Symptoms resemble a common cold, with a runny nose, sneezing, mild cough, and low-grade fever.
  • Progressive Stage (Paroxysmal Phase): The hallmark of whooping cough is a severe, persistent cough that comes in fits or paroxysms. During these coughing spells, individuals may experience difficulty breathing, vomiting, and exhaustion. The “whooping” sound occurs when the person inhales deeply after a coughing fit.
  • Recovery Stage (Convalescent Phase): The cough gradually lessens over several weeks but can persist for months.

The Dangers of Whooping Cough

Whooping cough is not just a nuisance; it can lead to serious complications, especially in infants and those with weakened immune systems. These complications include:

  • Pneumonia: A common and potentially life-threatening secondary infection.
  • Apnea: In infants, the disease can cause pauses in breathing.
  • Seizures and Brain Damage: Due to the lack of oxygen during prolonged coughing fits.
  • Death: Infants under six months are at the highest risk, with fatalities occurring in severe cases.

The Importance of Vaccination

Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent whooping cough. The DTaP vaccine, which protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis, is recommended for infants and children, with booster doses (Tdap) for adolescents and adults. Pregnant women are also advised to receive the Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy to protect their newborns.

Despite the availability of vaccines, the recent rise in whooping cough cases suggests that some families may not be up-to-date on their vaccinations. This is particularly concerning as unvaccinated or under-vaccinated individuals contribute to the spread of the disease.

What You Can Do

To protect yourself and your loved ones, consider the following steps:

  • Check Vaccination Status: Ensure that everyone in your household is up-to-date with their DTaP and Tdap vaccines. If you’re unsure, access your vaccination record with CT WiZ.
  • Practice Good Hygiene: Encourage frequent handwashing and cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of germs.
  • Stay Informed: Keep up with local health advisories and be aware of any outbreaks in your community.

The spike in whooping cough cases in Connecticut is a serious public health concern. By recognizing the symptoms, understanding the risks, and ensuring that your family is vaccinated, you can help protect your community from this preventable disease. Don’t wait—take action today to safeguard your health and the health of those around you.

Press Release: Governor Lamont Announces Launch of the Lead Free CT Campaign to Protect Children From the Harmful Health Impacts of Lead

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infant looking out of a window

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;
  • Collecting information on all known lead service water lines in Connecticut;
  • Replacing lead pipes that bring water to homes, childcare centers, and schools;
  • Supporting families who find lead in their home or water;
  • Offering funding to get Connecticut communities lead-free;
  • Having all Connecticut children tested for lead;
  • Raising awareness of lead testing and safety among parents; and
  • Educating communities, contractors, and landlords on lead laws and safety.

A key component of the Lead Free CT campaign includes the launch of a lead abatement program, which is providing homeowners and landlords with the opportunity to make older homes lead-safe by removing lead paint hazards at no cost. Funded by $20 million from the federal American Rescue Plan Act, this limited-time program will help in the safe removal of lead hazards from homes, including family childcare settings. Participation in this program is entirely voluntary and free of charge to homeowners and landlords. The Connecticut Department of Public Health is partnering with the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center to administer the program.

To view eligibility details and apply, visit leadfreect.org. This is a limited-time program, so those who are interested are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

“Every year, more than 1,000 Connecticut children are impacted by lead,” Governor Lamont said. “Lead poisoning can affect our children by causing health and brain changes that may impact them through school years and beyond – causing behavior problems, poor performance, and a risk of long-term, negative impacts. Based on the data of children tested in Connecticut, where blood lead levels trigger the requirement for environmental testing of the home, lead-based paint and lead dust in pre-1978 homes are the largest contributors to childhood lead exposure in homes.”

“Harmful lead exposure should not happen to any child,” Connecticut Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD, said. “It is 100% preventable. The Department of Public Health is investing in our communities so that every child can grow up safe from lead. Children under age six, and especially those aged one to three, are most vulnerable to lead exposure. In Connecticut, children of color and children from neighborhoods with high poverty rates are disproportionately impacted by these risks.”

“Connecticut has many beautiful houses, many of which were built prior to 1978,” Connecticut Public Health Deputy Commissioner Lisa Morrissey, MPH, said. “In these homes, windows, doors, walls, baseboards and railings were coated with lead-based paint. This is a unique opportunity to remove lead hazards before a child is exposed at home or in a childcare setting. The funding will ensure that children can grow up in a lead safe environment.”

“I am thrilled that we are partnering with the Connecticut Department of Public Health to help keep our children safe from lead exposure,” Jim Shmerling, DHA, FACHE, president and chief executive officer of Connecticut Children’s, said. “This initiative allows Connecticut residents to make their older homes lead safe. It’s a big step forward in protecting our kids and ensuring safe, stable homes for all families in our communities.”

“This $20 million initiative will ensure that more Connecticut families are growing, playing, and learning in safe, lead-free homes,” U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal said. “Lead poisoning can cause devastating and irreversible damage, especially to children, and I am thrilled to see federal American Rescue Plan Act dollars being used to tackle this critical health hazard. I applaud Governor Lamont and Commissioner Juthani for championing this program and making a real difference in the lives and health of Connecticut families.”

“We passed the American Rescue Plan in Congress to ensure states and communities had the resources they needed to recover from the pandemic and bolster public health,” U.S. Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) said. “Lead is far too commonly found in historic New England homes, leaving Connecticut’s children especially vulnerable to lead poisoning. I applaud Governor Lamont, the Connecticut Department of Public Health, and Connecticut Children’s for using this funding to assist homeowners with the removal of dangerous lead paint and take on the challenge of protecting our kids from lead poisoning and other dangerous toxins.”

“I applaud Governor Lamont’s efforts to rid Connecticut of harmful contaminants and mitigate fears of lead poisoning for children,” U.S. Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) said. “I am especially heartened that federal dollars provided by the American Rescue Plan Act will help state officials deliver this smart, comprehensive solution for Connecticut’s families.”

The Connecticut Department of Public Health plans for subsequent phases of the Lead Free CT campaign to include community engagement for lead service line replacement and testing drinking water for lead at daycares and schools.

For more information, visit leadfreect.org.

National Immunization Awareness Month: Protecting Ourselves, Our Families, and Our Community

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mother with vaccinated child

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 building immunity within a population, vaccination creates a protective shield that benefits everyone, especially the most vulnerable members of our society.

The Importance of Staying Up-to-Date on Vaccinations

Staying current with recommended vaccinations is crucial for maintaining individual and community health. It’s essential to follow the immunization schedule recommended by healthcare providers.

CDC’s Let’s RISE Initiative

To bolster vaccination rates and protect public health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) launched the “Let’s RISE” initiative. This comprehensive program focuses on providing actionable strategies, resources, and data to support healthcare providers, public health officials, and communities in ensuring that all Americans receive the recommended vaccinations.

Protecting Our Children

Vaccines are particularly vital for children, as they offer robust protection against serious childhood illnesses. Adhering to the CDC’s recommended immunization schedule is important for safeguarding children’s health and well-being. For parents seeking detailed information on recommended vaccine schedules for children, please visit: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/parents/schedules/index.html

Healthier Communities

By staying current with vaccinations, we can create healthier communities for ourselves, our families, our friends, and our neighbors. Let’s work together to raise awareness about the importance of immunization, build trust in vaccines, and ensure equitable access to these vital interventions.

Access Your Vaccination Record with CT WiZ

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