Important Announcement: QVHD is closely monitoring the community spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19). Please direct all general questions to the state's hotline by dialing 2-1-1 or call 833-ASK-YNHH (833-275-9644). Anyone experiencing symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath) is strongly urged to contact their medical provider to seek treatment. For additional information, visit our information page at www.qvhd.org/coronavirus-preparedness or ct.gov/coronavirus.
Learn more about Radon & testing your home here!
QVHD COVID-19 VACCINE SHAREABLE FLYER
Last Updated: 03/19/2021
We know it's important for our residents to know when they'll be eligible for a vaccine and what the instructions are to get one. The process may be a little different for everyone, but you can always visit this page to find out which phase you may be in, find more details about future phases, and instructions for scheduling your vaccine appointment.
COVID-19 Vaccination Frequently Asked Questions
Remember, you must either live or work in the State of Connecticut in order to receive vaccination in Connecticut. If you typically visit a provider in the State, but do not live or work in Connecticut, you are not eligible, and must get vaccinated in your home state.
Here's who is currently eligible for COVID-19 vaccinations as part of Phase 1a, and Phase 1b:
CT residents and workers who are currently eligible include:
If you are eligible,
GET THE VACCINE
Eligible groups, based on recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the Governor's vaccine advisory group are:
If you're aged 65 or older, or are included within any of the Phase 1b groups, you are currently eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccination in Connecticut.
Wait. If you have already heard from your medical provider about receiving the vaccine, you're all set. Please continue to work with them to ensure you get an appointment scheduled. Also - if you already have an account in the Vaccine Administration Management System (or VAMS), click here to log into VAMS and schedule your appointment.
Schedule by phone
Schedule through your providerA number of providers in the state, like local health clinics, and health districts schedule through VAMS. Below, you'll find a list of some other major providers that also use VAMS for scheduling. Click here to learn how to schedule through VAMS.
| Bristol Health |
| Griffin Health |
| Nuvance Health |
| Trinity Health of New England |
Appointments can be made utilizing the following tools:
· VAMS online system: VAMS is the Vaccine Administration Management System and can be used to schedule appointments at multiple clinics across the state. To make an appointment using this system, click here.
· Call Connecticut’s COVID-19 Vaccine Appointment Assist Line: Connecticut’s COVID-19 vaccine appointment assist line is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., seven days a week. To make an appointment, call 877-918-2224.
· Hartford HealthCare: Hartford HealthCare has multiple locations throughout the state, including large clinics in the Hartford area. To make an appointment using this system, click here.
· Yale New Haven Health: Yale New Haven Hospital has multiple locations throughout the state, including large clinics in the New Haven area. To make an appointment using this system, click here.
· Stamford Health: Stamford Health is operating a clinic seven days per week at Stamford Hospital. To make an appointment using this system, click here.
· Walgreens: Walgreens is currently offering the vaccine at 12 different locations and will soon be adding many more across the state. To make an appointment using this system, click here.
· CVS: CVS is currently offering the vaccine in nineteen locations throughout the state, including Hamden & New Haven. To make an appointment using this system, click here.
· Walmart: Walmart will be offering the vaccine at seven locations across the state (Hartford, New Haven, North Windham, Norwalk, Torrington, Waterbury, and West Haven). To make an appointment using this system, click here.
For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19 vaccination distribution plans in Connecticut, visit ct.gov/covidvaccine.
September 21, 2020
The Quinnipiack Valley Health District (QVHD) received confirmation that a North Haven Mosquito Trapping Surveillance Site, maintained by the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) recently had a sample of mosquitoes test positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). The mosquito surveillance site is located at Quinnipiac River Park. The CAES routinely monitors this mosquito trapping site between June and October. QVHD recommends the below information on how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Mosquitoes bite during the day and night, therefore one of the most effective ways to avoid WNV is to prevent mosquito bites by using insect repellent. Choosing an EPA-registered repellent ensures the EPA has evaluated the product for effectiveness. Always follow the product label instructions and reapply insect repellent as directed. Visit the EPA website to learn more about which repellent is right for you and your family: https://www.epa.gov/insect-repellents
Another effective way to avoid WNV is to control mosquitoes outside and inside your home. Be sure to follow these tips from the CDC:
For questions about WNV and humans, you can contact Quinnipiack Valley Health District, 203-248-4528, Monday – Friday: 8:30am- 4:30pm.
Sources:
All media inquiries must be submitted via email, please complete all sections of the form below and submit via email to info@qvhd.org with the subject line "Media Request".
Media Request Form (08/2020)
The State of Connecticut has partnered with United Way/211 to develop and maintain a public testing database. The database can be viewed here: www.211ct.org/covidtesting. The purpose of this database is to provide accurate information on the locations of public testing facilities; users are able to search for the closest testing location based on their address. When you click “more details” it breaks down who qualifies (asymptomatic or symptomatic) and the process of receiving an appointment/doctor approval.
Businesses/organizations should continue to support local public health contact tracing efforts, such as maintaining a log of employees on-premises over time.
Employers should continue to encourage employees to stay home when sick and encourage working from home when possible. In the event of a positive COVID-19 case, employees shall inform their employers and follow state testing and contact tracing protocols.
Businesses have the right to refuse service from customers not wearing masks.
Social distance markers, signage, and one-way traffic are still encouraged.
In terms of ventilation, facilities should work to increase the percentage of outdoor air that circulates into the system where possible, or use window units.
Businesses are still encouraged to post clear signage that includes the state hotline (211) for employees and customers to report potential violations of these rules. For additional information, please see Safe Workplace Recommendations for Employers.
Capacity limits are now up to 100%, subject to social distancing requirements (unless otherwise noted). However, it is the right of the operator/owner if they choose to operate below 100% capacity.
6 ft. spacing and social distancing continues to be required where possible (unless otherwise noted).
Masks continue to be required in all public settings where social distancing is not possible.
All establishments must follow CDC Cleaning and Disinfecting guidelines.
Performers and musical vocalists at restaurants, outdoor and indoor events, and performing arts venues are allowed, subject to the following:
All sports will be allowed to practice and compete, and all sports tournaments will be allowed, subject to Department of Public Health guidance.
Indoor and outdoor pools should limit the total number of patrons in the pool area and pool to the number of people/households that can safely fit on the pool deck area while maintaining 6 ft. of distance, including 3 ft. wide walking paths. "Free swim,” where individuals are not engaged in lap swimming, swim lessons, water aerobics, or other similar organized water activities, is discouraged prior to April 20. Youth and amateur swimming teams are subject to DPH guidance.
Road race organizers are encouraged to follow the guidance contained in the Outdoor Events Reopen Recommendations below.
6 ft. spacing is still required between gym/fitness center customers, as are masks.
6 ft. spacing or non-porous barrier continue to be required between tables, with an 8-person maximum table capacity.
Food Service continues to be required with alcohol service– bars that only serve beverages must remain closed. No standing bar services is allowed outside of private events.
All restaurants and indoor recreation continue to be subject to an 11:00 PM closing time.
Capacity limit is still up to 50%.
6 ft. spacing is required between parties.
All movie theaters and performing arts venues continue to be subject to an 11:00 PM closing time.
|
Type |
Capacity Limits |
Notes |
|
Private, Social and Recreational Gathering Sizes – Commercial Venue (e.g. weddings, office meetings, parties) |
Indoor – Up to 50% capacity – Cap of 100 people Outdoor – Cap of 200 people |
Face masks and social distancing required. Capacity count does not include event staff. |
|
Private, Social and Recreational Gathering Sizes – Private Residences (e.g. weddings, parties) |
Indoor – Cap of 25 people Outdoor – Cap of 100 people |
Face masks and social distancing required. Capacity count does not include event staff. |
|
Graduations |
Indoor – Up to 50% capacity – Cap of 100 people Outdoor – Limited to the number that can be accommodated safely by location with masks and social distancing required. |
Face masks and social distancing required. |
|
Religious Gatherings |
Indoor/Outdoor – Limited to number that can be accommodated safely by location with masks and social distancing required. |
Face masks and social distancing required. Click herefor recommendations. Social distancing markers: Install visual social distancing markers to enforce seating arrangement and, by marking seats as use or non-use. Alternatively, engage ushers to guide attendees to seats and enforce seating arrangement. |
|
Outdoor Event Venues (e.g. Amphitheaters, Race Tracks) |
Effective April 2: Up to 50% capacity – Cap of 10,000 people |
If an outdoor event venue is holding a private gathering, they are subject to the 200-person limit under outdoor private gatherings (see above). |
|
Fairs, Festivals, and Carnivals |
Up to 50% of last year's capacity. |
Face masks and social distancing required. |
|
Outdoor Organized Gatherings – Open to the public (e.g. Fireworks, Concert in Municipal Park) |
Cap of 500 people.6 ft. of space blanket to blanket Event organizer responsible for compliance with guidance. |
Face masks required except while eating and drinking, and lines clearly marking seating areas must be drawn. |
Effective Friday, April 2, 2021
Outdoor amusement parks can open with no capacity limit.
Outdoor event venues can increase to a 50% capacity, capped at 10,000 people.
Indoor stadiums can open at 10% capacity.
Beginning March 19, 2021, the following documents should be treated as recommended best practices:
*Effective March 19, the rules included on this webpage supersede any conflicting recommendations included in the “Reopen Recommendations by Sector” documents linked above.
|
Sector rules in effect throughout Connecticut: As Connecticut continues taking steps to protect residents from the spread of COVID-19, the state has established specific rules for various sectors to keep people safe. Here are all of the rules currently in effect that apply for each sector. Keep Connecticut Safe: Did you visit a business that might be violating a COVID-19 safety requirement? Let us know here. |
| Masks and Face Coverings: Pursuant to Executive Order No. 7NNN, masks or cloth face coverings that cover a person's nose and mouth are required to be worn when in public and a six-foot distance is unavoidable, whether indoors or outdoors. This does not apply to anyone for whom doing so would be contrary to their health because of a medical condition. Guidance on face coverings has been issued to the state's businesses. To make a face covering at home, watch this video from the CDC. |
|
Travel Advisory: Connecticut residents and travelers to Connecticut should follow travel-related guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Connecticut Department of Public Health (CT DPH). Mandates and requirements are not currently in place in Connecticut. Click here for detailed information on traveling. |
| Sector | Status | Notes |
| Amusement parks | Open | Must follow sector rules |
| Bars | Closed | |
| Beaches (state) | Open | Must follow safety guidelines |
| Beaches (town) | Open | Check with individual town or review this list from DEEP |
| Bowling alleys | Open | Must follow sector rules |
| Construction | Open | Must follow safe workplace rules |
| DMV | Partially Open |
- All deadlines for IDs and other credentials extended 180 days [info] |
| Gyms and Fitness Studios | Open | Must follow sector rules |
| Hair Salons and Barbershops | Open | Must follow sector rules |
| Hotels | Open | Must follow sector rules |
| Libraries | Open | Must follow sector rules |
| Nail salons | Open | Must follow sector rules |
| Manufacturing | Open | Must follow safe workplace rules |
| Museums and zoos | Open | Must follow sector rules |
| Offices | Open | Must follow sector rules |
| Retail | Open | Must follow sector rules |
| Restaurants | Open | Must follow sector rules |
| School (PreK-12, summer) | Open | Must follow summer school rules |
| State Campgrounds | Open | All campers must make reservations in advance |
| State Parks | Open | Must follow safety guidelines |
| Summer camps | Open | Must follow sector rules |
| Spas | Open | Must follow sector rules |
| Tattoo Parlors | Open | Must follow sector rules |
| Theaters | Open | Must follow sector rules |
The CT Department of Public Health conducts an ongoing statewide voluntary phone survey of CT adults ages 18+. The attached PDF (below) is an analysis of health indicators for CT Health Districts & Departments based on the results of the 2018 Behavioral Risk Factors Surveillance survey.
October 8, 2019
The Quinnipiack Valley Health District (QVHD) would like to remind residents that the best way to avoid rabies is to stay away from wildlife, including injured animals. Any mammal can get rabies, but the most commonly affected animals in the United States are raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes.
Understanding your rabies risk and knowing what to do after a contact with wild animals or unvaccinated dogs and cats can save lives. The following information has been obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Rabies is a fatal but preventable viral disease. It can spread to people and pets if they are bitten or scratched by a rabid animal.
The rabies virus infects the central nervous system. If a person does not receive the appropriate medical care after a potential rabies exposure, the virus can cause disease in the brain, ultimately resulting in death. Rabies can be prevented by vaccinating pets, staying away from wildlife, and seeking medical care as soon as possible after potential exposures.
Please be aware of the following signs of rabies, distemper or other disease in racoons or other mammals: unprovoked aggression, impaired movement, paralysis or lack of coordination, unusually friendly behavior, and disorientation. Just because a nocturnal (active at night) animal, like the raccoon, is active during daylight hours doesn’t necessarily mean that it is sick. Raccoons often adjust their feeding schedules, especially in the spring when rearing their young. (Source: CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Wildlife)
If you come across a sick or strange-acting animal do not approach it or touch it AND report it to your local animal control officer or local police.
For questions on rabies and human exposures, residents can call QVHD at (203) 248-4528.
DCSR maintains and operates a food bank for North Haven residents. Their “client choice” food bank empowers residents to select their own food based upon taste and dietary restrictions. This service is available by appointment during normal week day business hours. Any questions regarding donations or any residents interested in accessing the food bank, please contact Kim Bracale in the Department of Community Services and Recreation Monday through Friday from 8:30am-4:30pm at 203-239-5321 x502.
NOTICE TO LICENSED FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS
QVHD has been notified by the Connecticut Department of Public Health that Connecticut’s adoption of the FDA Food Code, that was scheduled to go into effect on no later than January 1, 2019 is delayed; therefore, we will continue using the current inspection form and rating system. The regulations to implement the new code are currently in the formal regulation review process. However, some laws have passed and are now in place including new classification definitions and Certified Food Protection Manager (formally known as QFO) requirements.
Please refer to your renewal application (sent in December) which indicates your new class. All newly classified Class 2, 3, and 4 establishments are required to employ a trained CFPM. Certificates must be current and not expired. The delay in adopting the FDA Code provides more time to renew an expired certificate. Approved testing organizations can be found here.
Although it is not possible to predict the date the final regulations will be approved and implemented, it is hopeful that it will be sometime in 2019.We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available to us. In the meantime, feel free to call QVHD with questions.
