March 2024

Greetings from the Wellesley Health Department! In this issue...

-New CDC guidelines on COVID vaccines and isolation.

-It's National Nutrition Month- Learn how to eat well all year long!

-Save the date for National Public Health Week!

As always, please reach out to us with questions or suggestions for how we can better serve you by emailing us at health@wellesleyma.gov. We love to hear from you!

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March is National Nutrition Month

This year's theme is "Beyond the Table," which addresses the farm-to-fork aspect of nutrition, from food production and distribution to navigating grocery stores and farmers markets — and even home food safety and storage practices. It also describes the various ways we eat — not only around a dinner table, but also on the go, in schools and restaurants, at games and events. This theme also includes sustainability, for instance, decreasing food waste from school and work to home and beyond.

20 Tips For Health Eating Smart Snacking Tips for Kids Healthy Eating on The Run

Smart Snacking Tips for Adults and Teens Eating Right Tips For Older Adults

Eating Right on a Budget Learn More...

Click here for info on National Public Health Week 2024

New CDC Guidelines For COVID and Other Respiratory Viruses

Each year, respiratory viruses are responsible for millions of illnesses and thousands of hospitalizations and deaths in the United States. In addition to the virus that causes COVID-19, there are many other types of respiratory viruses, including flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The good news is there are actions you can take to help protect yourself and others from health risks caused by respiratory viruses. Current MA guidelines remain in place although the Massachusetts Department of Public Health has indicated plans to adopt the new CDC guidelines soon. Visit our website to see the new CDC guidelines and learn more.

FREE COVID Tests Now Available!

The Health Department has free tests available for Wellesley Residents. Tests can be accessed outside the Health Department office on the 2nd floor of the Warren Building, 90 Washington St., M-F 6:00 AM -Close. Tests are available until supplies run out.

What You Need to Know About Measles

The CDC is reporting an increase in cases of measles, with 23 cases between December 1 2023 and January 23 2024, of which 7 were international travelers. Most of the cases were among children and adolescents who had not been vaccinated for measles. See the latest CDC alert here.

The best protection against measles includes getting vaccinated, taking extra caution if you are traveling (especially if you are traveling abroad), recognizing signs and symptoms and seeking medical help immediately if you think you have been exposed.

Learn more about measles and the importance of getting vaccinated.