Connecticut State Department of Public Health

COVID-19 Community Levels Update, March 24, 2023: The CDC has listed all eight Connecticut counties in the Low/Green category as part of its weekly Community Levels update. People who are at a high risk for severe illness should consider additional measures to minimize their exposure to COVID-19 and respiratory illnesses. Visit the CDC COVID-19 Community Levels Map for updates.


Please visit covidtests.gov to request four free COVID-19 self-test kits from the Federal Government. Find a location that has a supply of COVID-19 therapeutics as part of the Test to Treat initiative here. The complete DPH COVID-19 toolbox is located at ct.gov/coronavirus.

Blue Green Algae (Cyanobacteria)
 BGA

Blue-green algae blooms have raised concerns in Connecticut and across the nation because these organisms can produce a wide array of neurotoxins, liver toxins, cell toxins and skin irritants.  In still and  warm summer waters, populations of blue green algae may increase to the extent that a normally clear surface can become thick and murky.  This overgrowth is called a “bloom”.  Blooms are considered harmful due to the potential to cause health effects in people and pets over-exposed to these organisms.

 

Facts about Cyanobacteria and Cyanobacterial Harmful Algal Blooms (CDC)

 

For more information, view the following resources:

 

Contact Information:

  • To Report a Bloom:  If you believe that you have observed an algae bloom contact your Local Public Health Department or the CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (860 424-3020), or send an email to deep.algalblooms@ct.gov
  • For Health Concerns: If you have questions about health effects or exposure concerns, contact the DPH Environmental Health Section's Public Beach Program (860 509-7758).

 

Circular Letters: