Connecticut State Department of Public Health

The Federal Government has reopened COVIDtests.gov. Every household can order four over-the-counter COVID-19 tests for free. These tests are intended for use throughout the 2024 holiday season to detect currently circulating COVID-19 variants. Please visit COVIDtests.gov for your free test.

Extreme Heat

Extreme heat poses serious risks to public health. As temperatures rise due to climate change, the frequency and intensity of heatwaves are increasing, leading to a higher incidence of heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, young children, and those with pre-existing health conditions, are particularly at risk. Addressing extreme heat is crucial for safeguarding community health, promoting health equity, and ensuring that residents can thrive in a changing climate.

Looking for a Place to Cool Off? 

Please visit the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DEMHS) extreme heat webpage to view a map of cooling centers provided by and by United Way.

A screenshotted map of Connecticut, showing the locations of cooling centers during hot weather.

CDC Heat and Health Tracker to Help Municipalities Prepare for Heat Events:

Use the Heat and Health Tracker to access a 7-day heat risk forecast, giving you time to prepare your communities for extreme heat events. This tool can also be used to view emergency department data and access additional resources about the health outcomes of extreme heat.

 

Resources:

Know the warning signs of heat related illness: Learn more at CDC Symptoms of Heat Illness

Understand who may be at increased risk during extreme heat events: Learn more at CDC People at Increased Risk for Heat Illness

 

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