Health Department
The mission of the Wellesley Health Department is to assess and address the needs of the Wellesley community, in order to protect and improve the health and quality of life of its residents and work force.
This charge is carried out by the implementation of disease prevention programs, health promotion, community health and nursing services, public outreach, education and empowerment, as well as promulgation and enforcement of Health Department, Town and State regulations.
- Applesauce Pouch Recall 11/14/23: https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/investigation-elevated-lead-levels-cinnamon-applesauce-pouches-november-2023
- FDA is warning consumers not to purchase and to immediately stop using 26 over-the-counter CVS Health, Target and Rite Aid brand eye drop products due to the potential risk of eye infections that could result in partial vision loss or blindness.
- NEW! Back to School health and safety information, including mental health and well being resources.
- Fall Keep Well Clinic Schedule Posted/Winter Keep Well Clinic Schedule Posted
- Check out our Fall Health Update! Includes updated info on Flu, COVID, RSV, Back to School and more!
World AIDS Day
This y
ear’s theme for World AIDS Day is “World AIDS Day 35: Remember and Commit.” This annual event serves as a reminder of the global struggle to end HIV-related stigma, an opportunity to honor those we have lost, and a rallying cry to commit to working toward a day when HIV is no longer a public health threat.
The first World AIDS Day took place in 1988, providing a platform to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS and honor the lives affected by the epidemic. This year marks the 35th commemoration of this important day. Over the past 35 years, there has been significant progress in addressing HIV and AIDS thanks to advancements in medical research, increased access to treatment and prevention, and a broader understanding of the virus. Learn more.
Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month
When it comes to toys and gifts, it is critical to remember to consider the safety and age range of the toys.
Prevent Blindness America has declared December as Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month. The group encourages everyone to consider if the toys they wish to give suits the age and individual skills and abilities of the individual child who will receive it, especially for infants and children under age three. Below are some resources with age-appropriate toy guidelines and important safety considerations.
www.preventblindness.org/safe-toy-checklist
https://child-familyservices.org/december-is-national-safe-toys-and-gifts-month/
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002473.htm
https://www.apha.org/Events-and-Meetings/APHA-Calendar/2021/2021-Safe-Toys-and-Gifts-Month
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/safe-toys.html
National Impaired Driving Prevention Month
The National Highway Safety Traffic Administration (NHTSA) reported that in 2019 during the week between Christmas and New Year's Day, 210 lives were lost due to alcohol-impaired driving crashes. That’s 210 people in one week who didn’t make it home because either they or someone with whom they came in contact chose to use alcohol and then get behind the wheel. That same year, more than 10,000 people died from drunk driving crashes alone.
These deaths were preventable. That’s why for more than 40 years, preventionists across the country have observed National Impaired Driving Prevention Month in December to raise awareness that impaired driving can be deadly and to put strategies in place for all of us to make it home safely.
Health Department and Fire Department Host Fire Safety Training!
On June 13th, residents attended the always popular Fire Extinguisher Training class held at the Health Department. Good weather held as residents were able to learn about and actually use a fire extinguisher!
Fire fighters, including Lt. Paul Delaney , Deputy Chief Matthew Corda and Firefighter Mike Quintin, held a brief classroom presentation followed by an exciting hands-on experience outside.
The event drew spectators enjoying the nearby park, and participants all commented on how much fun it was. They also appreciated the opportunity to use the fire extinguisher before actually needing to at home, noting it's much easier than they thought. Be sure to stay up to date with the Health Department if you are interested in events like this! Sign up for our monthly newsletter here (be sure to scroll all the way down for the Health Dept. Newsflash), check in here regularly, and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.