Housatonic Valley Health District

You still have time to provide your input to help us better understand your health needs! 🔗 Click the link to take the survey: https://buff.ly/4deBy7s Your feedback is essential to making a difference. Thank you for your support! ❤️

🎄 In observance of the holidays, HVHD offices will be closed on December 24 and 25. We will resume regular hours on December 26. Wishing you a joyful holiday filled with health and happiness. Happy Holidays from all of us at HVHD!

🧼💧 December is National Handwashing Awareness Month! Proper handwashing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs and illnesses. Here are some tips to keep in mind: -Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the restroom, and after coughing or sneezing. -Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available. -Teach children the importance of handwashing to help them stay healthy. At HVHD, we encourage everyone to practice good hand hygiene year-round.

As we celebrate the holidays, it's important to prioritize health and safety. Here are some tips from HVHD to keep you and your loved ones safe: 👐 Proper Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating or preparing food. 🍽️ Food Safety: Cook foods to the proper temperature, refrigerate leftovers promptly, and avoid cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods. 🚗 Travel Safety: If traveling, check for travel advisories, wear masks in crowded places, and practice physical distancing. Let’s make this holiday season joyful and safe!

National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW) is a critical opportunity to remind everyone 6 months and older that there's still time to protect themselves and their loved ones from flu this flu season by getting their annual flu vaccine if they have not already. CDC data shows that flu vaccination coverage was lower last season, especially among certain higher risk groups, including children. When you get a flu vaccine, you reduce your risk of illness, and flu-related hospitalization if you do get sick. This week is meant to remind people that there is still time to benefit from the first and most important action in preventing flu illness and potentially serious flu complications: get a flu vaccine today. Visit www.hvhdct.gov to request a flu vaccine appointment!

It's National Influenza Vaccination Week – a great time to remind you that a flu vaccine is the best defense against flu's worst symptoms. There's still time to talk to a doctor or learn more at https://buff.ly/3Vj9PeN #FightFlu this #NIVW ---------- Es la Semana Nacional de Vacunación contra la Influenza: un buen momento para recordarte que la vacuna es la mejor defensa contra los peores síntomas de la influenza. Infórmate más en https://buff.ly/3Vj9PeN #COMBATELaInfluenza esta #NIVW

🌍 Today is World AIDS Day, a time to show support for those living with HIV/AIDS and to remember those we have lost. At HVHD, we're committed to raising awareness and promoting HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment. Visit https://www.hiv.gov/ for resources on testing, prevention, and support services.

Stay healthy this holiday season! 🎄 Protect your loved ones by getting your flu shot. 📞 Call us: 203-264-9616 📧 Email us: cht@hvhdct.gov 🌐 Schedule online: hvhdct.gov – click "Request a Vaccine Appointment." Your family’s health is the best gift of all! ❤️

🦃 It’s Turkey Time! Safeguard your holiday feast with these essential food safety tips: 🍗 Thawing Tips: Thaw your turkey in the fridge—allow about 24 hours for every 4-5 lbs. Once thawed, you can keep it in the fridge for 1-2 more days. 🚫 Skip the Wash: Washing your turkey can spread germs! Instead, wash your hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds before and after handling. 🥗 Keep It Separate: Prevent cross-contamination by keeping your turkey away from fresh foods. 🌡️ Cook to Perfection: Your turkey is only safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. ❄️ Leftover Safety: Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and enjoy them within 3-4 days. Let’s make this holiday delicious and safe! 🙌

🦃🍁 In observance of Thanksgiving, HVHD offices will be closed on November 28 and 29. We will resume regular hours on November 30. We wish you a safe and happy holiday with your loved ones. Remember to follow health guidelines to keep everyone safe and healthy during your celebrations.