WHAT ARE SPRING ALLERGIES? Every spring, trees, grass, and weeds release tiny pollen particles into the air. For millions of people, the immune system mistakenly treats this pollen as a threat — triggering the all-too-familiar symptoms we call seasonal allergies.

COMMON SYMPTOMS Think you might have spring allergies? Watch out for:

• Frequent sneezing
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Itchy, watery, or red eyes
• Scratchy or sore throat
• Fatigue or difficulty sleeping
• Headaches or sinus pressure

KNOW YOUR TRIGGERS The most common spring allergy culprits are:

•  Tree pollen — birch, oak, cedar, and maple trees are the biggest offenders in early spring
•  Grass pollen — picks up later in the season
•  Mold spores — thrive in damp, rainy spring weather

PREVENTION TIPS — KEEP POLLEN OUT OF YOUR LIFE

• Check daily pollen counts, plan outdoor activities on low-pollen days
• Keep windows and doors closed on high-pollen days and use air conditioning instead
• Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors to wash pollen off your skin and hair
• Try to spend less time outside in the early morning (5–10 AM) when pollen counts are highest
• Dry laundry indoors — hanging clothes outside allows pollen to collect on fabrics
• Vacuum frequently using a HEPA filter vacuum to reduce indoor pollen buildup
• Change your HVAC filters regularly to keep indoor air clean

TREATMENT OPTIONS Over-the-counter relief is available and effective for most people:

• Antihistamines — reduce sneezing, itching, and runny nose (e.g. Claritin, Zyrtec, Allegra)
• Nasal corticosteroid sprays — help reduce nasal inflammation (e.g. Flonase, Nasacort)
• Decongestants — relieve nasal stuffiness (e.g. Sudafed)
• Eye drops — soothe itchy, watery eyes

 Always read labels carefully and consult your pharmacist before starting a new medication.

For more information on Spring Allergy Prevention, visit:

acaai.org/news/nothing-to-sneeze-at-expert-tips-on-coping-with-spring-allergies/

Walking is one of the easiest and most powerful ways to improve your health—no gym or equipment needed! You likely already know that physical activity—like walking—is good for your overall health. But walking, in particular, offers a range of benefits you might not expect. Here are five surprising ones:

1. Helps Control Your Weight—Even Your Genes!

Regular walking can reduce the impact of weight-promoting genes by up to 50%.

• A brisk walk each day can help your body better manage weight—even if genetics are a factor.

2. Reduces Cravings for Sweets

A short 15-minute walk can help to curb cravings, especially for sugary snacks like chocolate.

• Walking can help you make healthier food choices—especially during stress.

3. Lowers Breast Cancer Risk

Women who walk regularly (about 7+ hours per week) have a 14% lower risk of breast cancer. Even those with higher risk factors can benefit.

4. Eases Joint Pain

Walking helps lubricate joints and strengthen muscles, reducing arthritis pain. It may even help prevent arthritis when done consistently.

5. Boosts Your Immune System

People who walk at least 20 minutes a day, 5 days a week have:

✔️ 43% fewer sick days

✔️ Milder symptoms when they do get sick

Walking helps your body fight off illness more effectively.

💡 REMEMBER:

Every step counts. Even small amounts of walking can lead to big health benefits!

For more information on the benefits of walking, visit;

health.harvard.edu/healthy-aging-and-longevity/5-surprising-benefits-of-walking

 Snow shoveling and other strenuous winter activities such as pushing a heavy snow blower can raise your blood pressure and heart rate, increasing stress on your heart and raising your risk for a heart attack if you’re not prepared. Follow the tips below for safe shoveling.

Before You Shovel

Dress for the Cold

• Wear several thin layers to stay warm but avoid overheating.

• Cover your mouth and neck with a scarf so warm air hits your lungs first.

• Choose waterproof boots and gloves so you stay dry and warm.

Stay Hydrated & Eat Light

• Drink water before you start — cold weather increases dehydration risk.

• Avoid heavy meals right before shoveling, as digestion diverts blood from your heart.

Warm Up Your Muscles

• Stretch your legs and trunk before heading outside.

• Wait about 1 hour after waking up to shovel — most heart attacks occur early in the morning.

While You Shovel

Use the Right Shovel

• Choose a lightweight, ergonomic shovel.

• Shovel soon after snow falls while it’s lighter.

Pace Yourself

• Shovel slowly and take frequent breaks indoors.

• Limit sessions to 10–15 minutes if not regularly active.

Protect Your Back

• Push snow when possible instead of lifting.

• Bend your knees and use your legs.

• Only move small amounts of snow at a time.

For more information on safe shoveling, visit:

mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/tips-for-safe-snow-shoveling

 Confirmed Rabies Case in Washington Township (Morris County)

The Washington Township Animal Control Officer was notified on November 12th, 2025 of a raccoon that was involved in an incident with two dogs in the area of Old Farmers Road and Youngman Drive. The raccoon was exhibiting symptoms commonly associated with rabies. The raccoon was submitted to the New Jersey Public Health and Environmental Laboratory for testing, and a positive rabies result was confirmed on November 13, 2025. 

At this time, Animal Control is closely monitoring the situation and investigating potential exposures related to this raccoon. 

If you come across a domestic animal such as a cat or dog that is sick, injured, dead, orphaned, or behaving oddly, it’s best to leave it alone and contact police dispatch and have them notify Animal Control. Domestic animals with known or suspected exposure must receive booster vaccinations and must been quarantined by the Washington Township Health Department.

If you spot a wild animal such as a fox, skunk, raccoon, or any other wild animal that is sick, injured, orphaned, or behaving oddly, it’s best to leave it alone and contact police dispatch at (908) 876-3232. You should not handle the animal yourself. 

Washington Township can be reached through the police dispatch number or you can reach out to the Washington Township Health Department with questions at (908) 876-3650. 

Understanding Rabies:  

Rabies is a fatal viral disease that can be prevented by avoiding contact with animals that may be rabid. If a person has significant exposure, getting vaccinated right away can also prevent disease. Rabies can be spread from the bite of a rabid animal, or when the animal’s saliva contacts a person’s mouth, eyes, or an open sore.  

Rabies poses a real threat, especially to unvaccinated domestic animals. This incident should serve as a reminder for pet owners to ensure their animals are up-to-date with rabies vaccination. Rabies occurs throughout New Jersey. Bats are the animal most commonly found to have rabies. Skunks, foxes, raccoons and unvaccinated domestic animals can also develop rabies. This is the second known rabid raccoon in Washington Township this year. Human rabies cases in the United States are rare.

Behavioral signs of rabid animals, wild or domestic, may include staggering, restlessness, aggression, a change of the tone of their barks or growls, or choking. Passive animals sometimes become fierce and aggressive. Nocturnal animals sometimes appear during the day.  

If you or a loved one are bitten or scratched by an unfamiliar animal, or an animal suspected of having rabies, immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and then seek medical attention.  Not all exposures require post exposure treatment. Health Department and Animal Control staff will work to locate, capture, and test suspect animals in an effort to definitively identify if the animal is infectious. Reporting bites is a legal obligation of exposed individuals and medical professionals to assure any/all actions are taken to protect the individuals involved and the public at large.  

Take these steps to protect your family and pets from rabies:  

• Make sure your pets and domestic animals are up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations;
• Keep children and pets from approaching or touching wild or strange animals.
• Make sure that any openings to your home such as crawl spaces, chimneys, attics, porches or garages are sealed or covered with thick wire screen to prevent entry by wild animals.
• Discourage wild animal foraging by not leaving pet food outside and by securing garbage cans.
• Avoid feeding, touching, or housing stray or wild animals.
• If you see a domestic animal (i.e. cat, dog) that is sick, injured, dead, orphaned or behaving oddly, leave it alone and contact Animal Control.
• If you see a wild animal (i.e. fox, skunk, raccoon), that is sick, injured, orphaned or behaving oddly, leave it alone and contact Animal Control. Do NOT handle the animal yourself.

Stay strong and healthy as cold and flu season begins.

As temperatures drop and germs start to spread, your immune system needs extra care.

Strengthen your body’s natural defenses with these simple, science-backed tips:

Eat for Immunity

• Colorful fruits and veggies: Aim for a rainbow on your plate: foods rich in vitamin C (oranges, bell peppers) and vitamin A (sweet potatoes, spinach) help your immune system function properly.
• Include zinc-rich foods: Such as nuts, seeds, beans, and lean meats. Zinc helps your body fight infection.
• Add probiotics: Yogurt, kefir, or fermented foods like kimchi can help balance gut bacteria, which supports immunity.

Stay Hydrated

Even when it’s cold, your body needs water to flush out toxins and keep mucous membranes moist as this is your first line of defense against germs.

Get Enough Sleep

Adults need 7–9 hours per night. Poor sleep can weaken your immune response and make you more susceptible to illness.

Keep Moving

Moderate physical activity like walking, yoga, or dancing improves circulation and supports immune health. Try to get at least 30 minutes a day.

Manage Stress

Chronic stress releases hormones that suppress your immune system. Try deep breathing, journaling, or short breaks during the day to relax your mind.

Don’t Forget the Basics

• Wash your hands regularly
• Avoid touching your face
• Stay up to date on vaccines (including flu shots)

For more information on boosting your immune system, visit;

cdc.gov/healthy-weight-growth/about/enhancing-immunity.html

Washington Township Health Dept and Green Brook Family Medicine

are co-sponsoring a Vaccine Clinic for ages 5 yrs and up

At: The Community Center

35 East Springtown Road, Long Valley NJ 07853

DATE:  October 14, 2025 from 2:30 – 6:00 PM

The following vaccines will be available:

1.       Flu vaccines for ages 5 years and older

2.       Senior Flu Vaccines ages 65 and older

3.       Pfizer COVID vaccine for ages 65+

Pfizer COVID vaccine for ages 12-64

Pfizer COVID vaccine for ages 5-11 available starting OCT 6th (reservations are required for this age group)

4.       PCV20/21 Pneumonia Vaccines. Now recommended for ages 50 and older

5.       TDAP (Adult Tetanus Booster) for ages 11 and older

Reservations are encouraged:  https://washingtontownship-vaccine.timetap.com

Additional vaccines will be available for walk-ins. 

Vaccines are free under most insurance plans.

However, we regret to inform you that the following insurance plans are not accepted:

1.       All HMO’s

2.       NJ Family Care /Medicaid Insurance.

3.       Magnacare/OSCAR/PHCS/Clover Insurances

4.       Dual Plan Horizon Medicare Advantage

5.       United Health Care/Oxford/UMR Commercial Insurance plans. 

If your insurance is not one we accept and you prefer to pay in cash, the cost will be as follows.

Reg Flu             $30.00            Senior Flu        $80.00         COVID  $130.00

PCV20/21        $275.00             TDAP               $50.00

If you have any questions about insurance acceptance, feel free to contact Ann at Green Brook Family Medicine via email at insurance@greenbrookfamilymedicine.com

On the day of the clinic:

1.       Please bring all insurance cards to the clinic to determine eligibility.

2.       A parent/guardian is required to be present with children under the age of 18.

3.       A provider from Green Brook Family Medicine will be available at the clinic to address any vaccine related questions.

You can find vaccine information on these websites:

Covid Vaccine Information Sheet:  Vaccine Information Statement: COVID-19

Influenza Vaccine information Sheet: Vaccine Information Statement: Inactivated Influenza Vaccine

PCV20/21 Pneumonia Vaccine Information sheet: Vaccine Information Statement: Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine - What you need to know

TDAP  Vaccine Information sheet: Vaccine Information Statement: TdaP

Be Informed. Be Prepared. Be Resilient.

The Murphy Administration has launched New Jersey’s first-ever Flood Safety Week, highlighting the growing risks of flooding and the steps we can all take to protect ourselves, our families, and our communities.

Why Flood Safety Matters

• Flooding is the most common natural disaster in New Jersey.
• It can happen anywhere, even outside of mapped flood zones.
• Remember: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.” Never drive through floodwaters.

New Jersey’s Resilience Efforts

Statewide Flood Resilience Report: 77 initiatives to strengthen communities.

Know Your Flood Risk Tool: Combines FEMA maps and Rutgers climate data to help residents understand their flood risk.

How You Can Prepare

• Make a Flood Plan: Know where you’ll go and how you’ll stay safe.
• Sign Up for Alerts: Get emergency notifications from local officials.
• Protect Important Documents: Store copies in waterproof containers.
• Check Your Insurance: Standard homeowner’s insurance does not cover flooding.
• Stay Informed: Follow NJDEP and NJOEM for safety tips and resources.

Flood Safety Tips for Families

✔️ Before a Flood

Know your evacuation routes.

Move valuables and electrical equipment to higher levels.

Prepare an emergency kit with water, food, medicine, flashlight, and batteries.

✔️ During a Flood

Never walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters.

Avoid downed power lines and fast-moving water.

Stay tuned to local alerts for evacuation or shelter instructions.

✔️ After a Flood

Wait for official word before returning home.

Wear protective gear when cleaning up.

Photograph damage for insurance claims.

Disinfect items that came into contact with floodwater.

Resources and Links

Know Your Flood Risk Tool: dep.nj.gov/climatechange/know-your-flood-risk/

Emergency Alerts: nj.gov/njoem/plan-prepare/staying-informed.shtml

Flood Safety Tips: weather.gov/safety/flood?utm_source=.com

Keeping Germs at Bay

As August winds down, kids head back to classrooms, sports, and after-school programs and adults dive into busier schedules, too. With more people sharing spaces, handwashing becomes one of the simplest and most effective ways to stop the spread of germs. It only takes 20 seconds to protect yourself and others from illnesses that can spread quickly once fall begins.

Why It Matters

• Germs from coughs, sneezes, shared surfaces, or playground equipment can easily move from hands to eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Proper handwashing reduces the risk of spreading colds, flu, stomach bugs, and other common infections.

When to Wash

Make handwashing a habit at these key times:

• Before eating or handling food
• After using the bathroom
• After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose
• After recess, sports, or playing outside
• After touching shared surfaces like doorknobs, railings, or classroom supplies

How to Wash Effectively

• Wet your hands with clean, running water.
• Lather with soap — cover palms, backs of hands, between fingers, and under nails.
• Scrub for at least 20 seconds — try humming “Happy Birthday” twice or another short song.
• Rinse well under clean water.
• Dry with a clean towel or air dryer.

No Sink Nearby?

• Use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Rub all surfaces of your hands until they feel dry.
• Remember: sanitizer does not work well on visibly dirty or greasy hands, soap and water are best.

Quick Tip for Families & Classrooms

Make handwashing fun for kids with songs, stickers, or setting up a “clean hands” challenge.

The more positive the habit, the more likely it will stick.

For more information on handwashing, please visit;

www.cdc.gov/clean-hands/about/index.html

Your Guide to Choosing & Storing Seasonal Produce in August

August is a golden month for fresh fruits and vegetables. Shopping at a farmers market not only supports local growers, it also gives you produce that’s often harvested just hours before you take it home. Here’s how to make sure every item you bring back is worth the trip:

• Shop with Your Eyes and Nose

Color: Look for rich, vibrant hues — dull or pale produce often means it’s under-ripe.

Smell: A ripe peach, melon, or tomato should have a sweet, fragrant aroma.

Texture: Firm, but not rock-hard, is usually the sweet spot. Avoid anything with large bruises or soft, watery spots.

• Time Your Visit

Early birds get first pick of items like berries and herbs.

Late in the day can mean discounts on what’s left, perfect for making jams, sauces, or soups.

• Store Smart to Keep It Fresh

Refrigerate: Berries (don’t wash until ready to eat), leafy greens (wrapped in a damp paper towel inside a container), corn (keep husks on until cooking).

Room Temperature: Tomatoes, peaches, plums, and melons — keep them out until ripe, then refrigerate to slow spoilage.

Cool, Dark Place: Potatoes, onions, and garlic keep best in a well-ventilated basket or bin away from sunlight.

• Eat It Soon

Farmers market produce is often picked at peak ripeness, which means more flavor but also a shorter shelf life. Plan meals around your haul and enjoy that fresh-from-the-field taste while it’s at its best.

• Explore Something New

Don’t just stick to your usuals — August markets are full of surprises like heirloom tomatoes, rainbow carrots, and specialty herbs. Trying a new fruit or veggie each trip keeps meals exciting and expands your palate.

For more information on seasonal produce, visit:

seasonalfoodguide.org/new-jersey/early-august

Mosquitoes aren’t just a nuisance, they can carry serious diseases like West Nile virus, Zika, and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). One of the easiest ways to prevent mosquito bites? Get rid of standing water.

💧 Why Standing Water Matters

Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water, and it only takes a capful to breed hundreds of mosquitoes in just days! Summer rains, sprinklers, and backyard items can create the perfect breeding ground — right outside your door.

Check These Common Trouble Spots Weekly:

• Buckets, flower pots, and toys – Empty them or store upside down.
• Birdbaths and pet bowls – Change water every 2–3 days.
• Clogged gutters – Clean regularly to prevent pooling.
• Tires, tarps, & covers – Keep them dry or tightly sealed.
• Kiddie pools – Drain and store when not in use.

Bonus Tip: Scrub It Out!

Even after dumping water, mosquito eggs can stick to surfaces. Scrub containers to fully eliminate eggs and larvae.

Protect Yourself Too:

Use EPA-registered insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

Wear long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

Install or repair window and door screens to keep bugs out.

For more information on mosquitos and standing water, visit:

www.nj.gov/health/news/2025/approved/20250703a.shtml

Warmer weather brings more than sunshine—it also invites mosquitoes and ticks. These tiny pests can carry big risks, like Lyme disease and West Nile virus. Here’s how to enjoy the outdoors without bringing home unwanted bites.

Defend with Repellent

Use EPA-registered repellents with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

Apply to exposed skin and clothing (not under clothing or near eyes).

Reapply after swimming or sweating.

Dress the Part

Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and pants when in wooded or grassy areas.

Tuck pants into socks or boots to keep ticks off your legs.

Consider permethrin-treated clothing for added protection.

 Avoid Their Favorite Hangouts

Empty standing water (buckets, flowerpots, kiddie pools) to stop mosquito breeding.

Stick to the center of trails when hiking to avoid tick-heavy brush.

Keep lawns mowed and leaf piles cleared.

Check Yourself!

After outdoor time, do a full-body tick check—especially behind ears, knees, and under arms.

Shower within two hours of being outdoors.

Remove ticks with fine-tipped tweezers—grasp close to the skin and pull steadily.

 Did You Know?

 Ticks can be active in temperatures as low as 40°F, and mosquitoes can breed in as little as a bottle cap of water!

For more information on staying safe from ticks and mosquitoes in the summer, visit:

nj.gov/health/news/2024/approved/20240618b.shtml

June is prime time for grilling—but traditional cookouts often come with heavy sides, processed meats, and sugary drinks. With a few smart swaps, you can keep the flavor and fun while boosting the nutrition.

Grill Smarter, Not Harder

Instead of: Hot dogs & processed sausages

 Try: Lean turkey burgers, marinated chicken, veggie kebabs, or portobello mushrooms

Instead of: White buns & rolls

 Try: Whole grain buns, lettuce wraps, or open-faced sandwiches

Instead of: Mayo-heavy potato or pasta salad

 Try: Vinegar-based slaw, quinoa salad, or grilled veggie skewers

Side Dish Makeovers

Skip: Creamy dips loaded with fat

 Swap in: Hummus, Greek yogurt dip, or guacamole

Skip: Chips and nacho cheese

 Swap in: Air-popped popcorn, roasted chickpeas, or fruit skewers

Add: A DIY water bar with lemon, mint, berries, or cucumber instead of soda

Don’t Forget Food Safety!

Keep cold foods in a cooler with ice packs

Use a meat thermometer: chicken = 165°F, burgers = 160°F

Wash hands and surfaces often

For more information on smart summer grilling, visit:

usda.gov/about-usda/news/press-releases/2021/05/27/usda-provides-food-safety-tips-grilling-pros-and-beginners

Whether you're hitting the road, flying across the country, or exploring local gems, a little preparation can go a long way in keeping your summer travels stress-free and healthy.

Pack a Healthy Travel Kit

• Hand sanitizer (60% alcohol or more)
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
• Reusable water bottle
• Healthy snacks (nuts, fruit, granola)
• First aid basics (bandages, pain reliever, motion sickness meds)

Eat Well on the Go

• Choose fresh options at rest stops or airports: fruit cups, yogurt, or salads.
• Avoid skipping meals—pack snacks to curb hunger and avoid impulse junk food.
• Stay hydrated! Especially when flying or in hot weather.

Travel Safely

• Buckle up, take breaks on long drives, and switch drivers if possible.
• Practice pedestrian safety in unfamiliar cities.
• Stay alert in the heat: know the signs of heat exhaustion (heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, and a fast, weak pulse).

Protect Your Health

• Check for travel vaccine or health alerts at CDC Travel Health
• If traveling internationally, make sure routine vaccinations are up to date.
• Wash hands frequently, especially before eating and after public places.

Don’t Forget to Rest!

• Aim for quality sleep—even on vacation.
• Plan buffer time in your itinerary to avoid burnout.

For more information on travel safety, visit:

wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/health-during-trip

Just 20–30 minutes of movement a day can boost your mood, reduce anxiety, and sharpen your thinking.

Movement doesn’t have to mean a full workout — it can be a walk, stretch break, or dance around the house. It’s not about performance — it’s about feeling better.

How it Helps:

Boosts Mood – Physical activity releases endorphins, your brain’s “feel-good” chemicals.

Reduces Stress – Movement lowers cortisol levels and helps you unwind.

Improves Focus – Even light activity improves memory and attention.

Promotes Better Sleep – Active days help create restful nights.

Builds Resilience – Regular movement strengthens both body and mind over time.

Remember:

Movement isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress and self-care.

Start where you are, move how you can, and feel the mental health benefits build.

Try These Simple Options:

• 10-minute walk outside
• Gentle yoga or stretching
• Dancing to your favorite song
• Desk stretches during the workday
• Bike rides or light resistance training

Why Food Safety Matters:

Many hands help prepare and serve food at meal sites. Proper food safety protects guests and volunteers from illness — especially in busy, high-turnover volunteer environments.

🧼 1. WASH HANDS THOROUGHLY

Clean hands save lives!

• Wash hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds
• Always wash:

Before handling or serving food

After using the restroom

After sneezing, coughing, or touching your face

After handling trash or cleaning supplies

Hand sanitizer is helpful but not a substitute for handwashing!

🧤 2. WEAR GLOVES THE RIGHT WAY

• Wash hands before putting on gloves
• Change gloves:

Between raw and ready-to-eat foods

After touching surfaces or your face

If gloves get torn or dirty

Gloves must be used when serving ready-to-eat foods like bread, fruit, or salads.

🍳 3. COOK & REHEAT FOODS TO SAFE TEMPS

• Use a food thermometer when possible:

Poultry: 165°F

Ground meat: 160°F

Leftovers or reheated foods: 165°F

• Never serve undercooked food — when in doubt, heat it out!

🔥4. KEEP FOODS AT SAFE TEMPERATURES

• Hot foods should stay at 135°F or warmer
• Cold foods should stay at 41°F or cooler
• Discard any food left out more than 2 hours (or 1 hour in hot weather)
• Use coolers, ice, or warming trays to help maintain temps if needed

🚫 5. IF YOU FEEL SICK, PLEASE DON’T VOLUNTEER

Even minor symptoms can spread illness to others.

Stay home if you have:

❌ Vomiting

❌ Diarrhea

❌ Fever

Let the team know — your health helps protect everyone!

For more information on food safety tips for volunteers at meal service sites, visit:

www.communityfoodrescue.org/food-safety-for-volunteer-food-runners/

Are you unsure what it all means when you look at a food label? Nutrition labels can be a great tool for managing a heart healthy diet, which makes it very important that you understand what you’re looking at when you read a label.

Nutrition labels are based on a daily 2,000 calorie diet. Depending on your age, gender and activity level, you may need to consume more or less than 2,000 calories per day, so keep this in mind when viewing each label.

• Serving Size: Tells you how much counts as one serving.

Many packages contain more than one serving — always check!

• Total Calories: The calories listed are per serving, not for the whole package.

• Cholesterol: Found mostly in animal products like meat, dairy, and eggs.

Lower cholesterol foods support heart health and help reduce the risk of clogged arteries.

• Fats – Saturated & Trans: Saturated fats should be limited, while trans fats should be avoided completely.

Look for foods with healthy fats like nuts, seeds, avocado, and olive oil.

• Sodium (Salt): Too much sodium can increase blood pressure and heart disease risk.

Look for labels with 140 mg of sodium or less per serving for a low-sodium choice.

• Total Carbohydrates (Fiber & Sugar): Fiber is great for digestion and heart health. Added sugars provide extra calories without nutrition.

• Protein: Essential for building muscles, bones, and overall health.

Choose lean protein sources like chicken, fish, beans, and nuts over processed meats.

• Vitamins & Nutrients: Key vitamins and minerals support your body’s daily functions.

Look for foods rich in calcium, iron, potassium, and Vitamin D — nutrients many people don’t get enough of.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON FOOD LABELS, VISIT:

www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/heart-and-vascular-blog/2018/january/food-labels-101

What Are Ultra-Processed Foods?

Ultra-processed foods are industrially manufactured products containing additives, preservatives, artificial flavors, and high levels of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. These foods often come in convenient, ready-to-eat packaging but lack essential nutrients.

Common Examples:

• Sugary drinks (soda, energy drinks, flavored juices)
• Packaged snacks (chips, cookies, candy)
• Instant noodles and frozen meals
• Fast food and processed meats (hot dogs, sausages)
• Breakfast cereals with high sugar content

Health Risks of Ultra-Processed Foods

Regular consumption of ultra-processed foods has been linked to:

• Increased risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes
• Higher chances of heart disease and high blood pressure
• Digestive issues due to lack of fiber
• Increased risk of certain cancers
• Mental health concerns, including anxiety and depression

How to Make Healthier Choices

✅ Read Labels: Choose foods with fewer ingredients and avoid those with artificial additives and preservatives.

✅ Cook at Home: Preparing meals from fresh, whole ingredients ensures better nutrition.

✅ Snack Smart: Opt for nuts, fresh fruits, yogurt, or homemade snacks instead of packaged ones.

✅ Choose Whole Grains: Swap white bread, rice, and pasta for whole-grain alternatives.

✅ Drink Water: Replace sugary beverages with water, herbal teas, or infused water with fresh fruit.

By reducing ultra-processed foods and incorporating more whole, natural foods into your diet, you can significantly improve your overall health. Start small—every healthy choice adds up!

For more tips on healthy eating, visit:

www.yalemedicine.org/news/ultraprocessed-foods-bad-for-you

February 2025

The H5N1 Bird Flu is a disease caused by an infection with avian (bird) influenza (flu) type A viruses. It is highly deadly to birds, currently the risk to humans is low.

Currently there is no reported spread of the virus from person to person. While the risk to the public is low, there are currently 66 confirmed human cases in the United States, and 1 reported death. There are no known human cases in New Jersey.

Tips to Staying Safe

• Keep pets away from wild birds, poultry and cattle.

• Do not eat/drink raw dairy products, undercooked poultry or eggs. Avoid feeding pets as well.

• Avoid touching surfaces contaminated by sick birds or animals without proper protection.

• Avoid direct contact with wild birds.

• DO NOT touch wild or domestic birds that appear sick or have died.

If you encounter a sick or dead bird, do not touch it. Please report it to NJDEP or NJDA immediately.

Report sick or dead poultry or livestock:

New Jersey Department of Agriculture, Division of Animal Health

609-671-6400 or state.veterinarian@ag.nj.gov

To report sick or dead wild birds:

NJ Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Fish and Wildlife hotline at

1-877-WARNDEP

Poor posture and workstation setup can lead to back and neck pain, fatigue, and decreased productivity. Follow these simple tips to stay comfortable and pain-free at work!

🖥️ Workstation Setup Tips

✅ Chair & Posture: Sit with feet flat on the floor, knees at a 90° angle, and back supported.
✅ Monitor Position: Keep the screen at eye level and about an arm’s length away.
✅ Keyboard & Mouse: Keep wrists straight and elbows close to your body at a 90° angle.

💡 Healthy Work Habits

🔹 Take Breaks: Stand up and stretch every 30–60 minutes.
🔹 Adjust Your Screen: Reduce glare and maintain proper lighting to avoid eye strain.
🔹 Use a Headset: Avoid cradling the phone between your shoulder and ear.

🧘‍♂️ Quick Desk Stretches

✔ Neck Stretch: Gently tilt your head side to side, holding for 10 seconds.
✔ Shoulder Rolls: Roll shoulders forward and backward to release tension.
✔ Seated Spinal Twist: While seated, twist your torso gently to each side.

👉 Small changes lead to big relief! Adjust your workspace today for better posture and productivity.

Every time your heart beats, it pumps blood through vessels, called arteries, to the rest of your body. Your blood pressure is how hard your blood pushes against the walls of the arteries. If your blood flows at higher-than-normal pressures, you may have high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Hypertension is a significant risk factor for heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States. Millions of Americans have high blood pressure, yet many are unaware of it. That’s why regular blood pressure checks, at least once a year, are essential.

Certain factors can increase our risk of developing high blood pressure.

• Age: Blood pressure tends to get higher as we get older. But it can affect many of us when we’re younger too.

• Genes: High blood pressure often runs in families.

• Sex: Before age 60, more men than women have high blood pressure. After age 60, more women than men have it.

• Lifestyle habits: Eating too much salt, drinking too much alcohol, being obese, smoking, and not getting enough exercise can raise our blood pressure.

What steps can you take to lower your blood pressure?

• Eat Healthy Foods

A diet low in sodium and saturated fat—like the DASH eating plan—can lower your blood pressure as effectively as medicines.

• Move More

Get at least 2½ hours of physical activity a week to help lower and control blood pressure. That’s just 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week.

• Aim for a Healthy Weight

Losing just 3 to 5 percent of your weight can improve your blood pressure. If you weigh 200 lbs., that’s a weight loss of 6 to 10 lbs.

• Manage Stress

Stress can contribute to high blood pressure and other heart risks. If it goes on for a long time, it can make your body store more fat.

• Stop Smoking

The chemicals in tobacco smoke can harm your heart and blood vessels. Quitting is hard. But many people have done it, and you can, too.

For more information on steps to control your blood pressure, visit:

heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/changes-you-can-make-to-manage-high-blood-pressure

Maintaining joint health is essential for mobility and overall well-being. Here are some simple tips to help protect your joints:

Try Low-Impact Exercises

Engage in activities like walking, swimming, or cycling that are gentle on your joints while still providing cardiovascular benefits.

Discover your strength

Use your strongest joints and muscles to your advantage. To protect finger and wrist joints, push open heavy doors with the side of the arm or shoulder.

Adopt an Anti-Inflammatory Diet:

Incorporate foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, such as fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, and fish to reduce inflammation.

Keep moving

Avoid holding one position for too long. When working at a desk, for example, get up and stretch every 15 minutes. Do the same while sitting at home reading or watching television.

Talk to Your Doctor

If you are experiencing joint pain, your health care provider can offer some information about how you can deal with the pain—with or without medication.

By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you can help protect your joints and maintain their health over time. For more information on protecting you joints, visit:

health.harvard.edu/pain/simple-tips-to-protect-your-joints

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. It is produced when fuels like gas, oil, coal, or wood do not burn completely. Common household sources include malfunctioning furnaces, gas stoves, fireplaces, and generators.

How to Prevent CO Exposure:

• Install CO Alarms: Place alarms on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas. Test alarms monthly, replace batteries annually, and install new alarms every 5-7 years.

• Ensure Proper Ventilation: Keep chimneys, flues, and vents clean and free from debris or snow. Blocked ventilation can trap CO indoors.

• Service Appliances Regularly: Have professionals inspect and maintain furnaces, water heaters, gas stoves, and other fuel-burning appliances annually.

• Use Generators Safely: Generators should only be operated outdoors, at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and vents. Never run them inside homes, garages, or enclosed spaces.

• Avoid Indoor Use of Fuel-Burning Devices: Never use grills, camp stoves, portable heaters, or ovens to heat your home.

Recognizing CO Poisoning:

Symptoms of CO poisoning include headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. Severe exposure can lead to loss of consciousness or death. If you or someone in your home shows symptoms, move to fresh air immediately and call 911.

Key Safety Tips:

• Never leave a car running in an attached garage, even with the garage door open.
• Check that gas appliances are properly vented and functioning efficiently.
• Educate your family on CO risks and alarm signals.

·         Taking these precautions can save lives and ensure your home is safe from this invisible threat.

For more information, visit: epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/protect-your-family-and-yourself-carbon-monoxide-poisoning

Protect Your Loved Ones. Detect the Invisible gas. Test for Radon.

You can’t see, smell or taste radon, but it could be present at a dangerous level in your home. Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer deaths among nonsmokers in America and claims the lives of about 21,000 Americans each year.

Exposure to radon is a preventable health risk and testing radon levels in your home can help prevent unnecessary exposure. If a high radon level is detected in your home, you can take steps to fix the problem to protect yourself and your family.

Take Action in January!

Test Your Home!

Consider hiring a professional tester. Short-term (2-90 day) and long-term (more than 90-day) test kits are available, with the long-term kit producing more accurate results. The EPA website can help you find a radon test kit or measurement and mitigation professional near you. Do-it-yourself test kits also are available at many local hardware stores.

Washington Township Health Department offers free RADON TESTING KITS TO RESIDENTS! 

No level of radon exposure is considered completely safe, however the EPA only recommends reducing radon levels in your home if your long-term exposure averages 4 picocuries per liter (pCI/L) or higher. A pCI is a measure of the rate of radioactive decay of radon gas. This decay causes radioactive particles that can get trapped in your lungs when you breathe.

For more information on radon testing your home, visit:

www.epa.gov/radon/find-radon-test-kit-or-measurement-and-mitigation-professional

New Years Eve is a great way to celebrate the year gone by and the coming of a new one. However, these celebrations also come with great dangers and responsibilities. Follow these safety tips to keep you safe for the new year.

• Stick Together

Arrive and leave with a group.

Share your plans with family and friends beforehand.

Check in with your group regularly, especially if plans change.

• Be Prepared

Bring a phone charger.

Stay aware of your surroundings in case you get separated.

Never go anywhere with strangers.

Leave valuables at home, and keep essentials like your phone and wallet in a front pocket.

• Plan a Sober Ride

If drinking, arrange a ride with a sober friend, use a rideshare app, taxi, or public transit.

Ensure your friends have a safe ride—take their keys or offer them a place to stay if needed.

• Drink Responsibly

Eat a protein-rich meal to slow alcohol absorption.

Pace yourself: Your body metabolizes about one standard drink per hour:

• 12 oz. of beer
• 4-5 oz. of wine
• 1.5 oz. of liquor

Sip, don’t chug, to allow your body time to process alcohol.

Never leave your drink unattended to avoid tampering risks.

Celebrate responsibly and make it a night to remember for all the right reasons!

For more information on celebrating New Years Eve safely, visit:

www.safety.af.mil/Divisions/Occupational-Safety-Division/Winter-Safety/New-Years-Eve-Safety/

The long, dark days of winter can have a depressing effect on some people. And what you may mistake as the “winter blues,” can actually be a more serious condition known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD is a form of depression that occurs in the winter when there is less natural sunlight. To prevent the onset of seasonal depression, see below for tips:

·         Exercise. Exercise helps you feel better because it increases dopamine levels in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that promotes feelings of pleasure and excitement. Take a walk outside for 30 minutes or enroll in an aerobics class. Anything you can do to stay active will improve your mood and overall well-being.

·         Go outside. Being outside in nature is helpful because of the absorption of oxygen. Try to expose yourself to at least five to 10 minutes of natural sunlight a day. Exposure to sunlight may also help boost serotonin, a “feel good” hormone produced in the brain.

·         Reach out to friends. Spend time with loved ones or talk to them about how you are feeling. Friends and family can be a powerful source of support.

·         Eat a balanced diet. It’s important to incorporate a variety of foods into your diet that build brain power, allowing you to improve your mood. Try foods rich in omega-3 fats, like salmon or walnuts. You can also eat foods with high levels of tryptophan, like lean chicken, spinach, bananas and eggs.

·         Drink more water. If you get enough water, it helps you sleep better, it helps your joints feel better, and it aids with digestion. It also helps to hydrate your brain.

For more information on preventing Seasonal Affective Disorder, visit:

my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9293-seasonal-depression

Washington Township is hosting a FREE rabies vaccination clinic on January 11th, 2025 from 9am-11am.  The clinic will be held at the Washington Township DPW facility located at 54 Rock Road, Long Valley NJ 07853.  If you have any questions please call the Health Department at (908)-876-3650.  

Dog and cat licensing, for Washington Township residents, will be available at the vaccination clinic. 

The vaccination clinic is open to all NJ residents. 

The winter holidays are a time for celebration, and that means home decorating, entertaining, and an increased risk of fire due to heating equipment. To ensure that you have a fire safe holiday season, see the following safety tips.

• Choose a Fresh Tree: Ensure your live tree is green with needles that don't easily fall off to reduce fire risks.
• Water Regularly: Keep your tree stand filled with water daily to prevent the tree from drying out.
• Position Carefully: Place your tree at least three feet away from heat sources, such as fireplaces, radiators, and space heaters.
• Inspect Lights: Use only UL-listed lights and check for frayed wires or broken bulbs before decorating.
• Turn Off Lights: Always unplug tree lights before going to bed or leaving the house.
• Avoid Overloading Outlets: Use power strips with built-in circuit breakers to safely power decorations.
• Dispose Properly: Remove the tree promptly after the holidays, as a dry tree is a fire hazard.

For more information on Christmas Tree Safety Tips, visit:

nfpa.org/education-and-research/home-fire-safety/winter-holidays

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, great food and quality time with loved ones. As you gather with your loved ones, it’s crucial to remember that safety should be on the menu as well. Read the following tips to help you make Thanksgiving as safe as it will be delicious.

• Stay Safe While Cooking

The kitchen is a common place for accidents. The average number of reported residential building fires on Thanksgiving Day was more than double the average number of fires in residential buildings on all other days. Cooking was the leading cause of all Thanksgiving Day fires in residential buildings.

Keep safety front and center and follow these guidelines when cooking:

• Never leave your pan unattended.
• Keep a fire extinguisher on hand.
• Keep flammable items away from the stove.
• Keep a pan lid or baking sheet nearby so you can cover the pan if it catches on fire.

• Prevent Food Poisoning

When preparing food for family and friends, it’s important to keep food fresh and safe to eat. By following food handling guidelines, you can prevent common causes of food poisoning.

• Keep produce separate from meat, poultry, seafood and eggs in your shopping cart and in your grocery bags.
• Store and serve food at the right temperature. Food should be stored below 40 degrees Fahrenheit and cooked to the proper internal temperature. Remember to refrigerate food within two hours of purchase and always thaw food safely in the refrigerator, in a cold-water bath, or in the microwave.
• Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds before preparing or serving food.
• Wash utensils, cutting boards and counters that have touched uncooked or undercooked meat, poultry, seafood, eggs or flour before using them on anything that will be served raw.

• Travel Safety

If you’re hitting the road for Thanksgiving, ensure you are well-prepared for what travels lay ahead. Make sure your car is in good working order for a road trip, pack an emergency preparedness kit and check the weather before departing. If you are traveling alone, be sure to share your travel plans with someone and take breaks throughout your journey to ensure you’re fully rested and alert.

If you are using public transportation, such as a flight or a train, check that you have what you need for wherever you are visiting and make sure to consider weather conditions.

For more tips on Thanksgiving safety, visit:

www.fema.gov/blog/5-tips-gobble-safe-thanksgiving

FOLLOW THESE 7 TIPS TO KEEP YOU AND YOUR FOOD SAFE FROM FOODBORNE ILLNESSES.

1.Separate meat, poultry, and seafood from other food in shopping cart.

2. Keep raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs separate from all other foods in the refrigerator.

3. Raw chicken is ready to cook. It doesn’t need to be washed first. Washing it can spread germs to other foods. If you wash it, immediately clean and thoroughly sanitize sink and surrounding area

4. Use one cutting board or plate for raw meat, poultry, and seafood and a separate cutting board or plate for produce, bread, and other foods that won’t be cooked.

5. Wash your utensils, cutting boards, and countertops with hot, soapy water after preparing raw meat, poultry, seafood, or eggs.

6. Wash hands for 20 seconds with soap and water after touching raw meat, poultry, seafood, or eggs.

7. Use separate plates for raw meat and cooked meat. The same advice applies to poultry and seafood.

For more information on food safety, visit: www.cdc.gov/food-safety/

The colors are beginning to change, and the temperature is dropping, which means fall is in full swing. Unfortunately, that also means that allergies are running rampant.

Follow these tips for getting through allergy season so that you can enjoy your fall activities:

• Get Allergy Tested.

For fall, the main allergy is ragweed. This strong allergen can affect your nose, throat and eyes. If you have chronic lung disease such as asthma or COPD, exposure to ragweed can worsen your respiratory symptoms. If you suspect you have allergies, you should discuss getting tested with your healthcare provider. Many allergy medications are available over the counter, although you may not be treating what you are allergic to. Your test results will not only confirm what you are allergic to, but they can also help you determine when you are most likely to be affected and what treatments will work best for you.

• Check Pollen Levels Daily.

Before spending any time outdoors, check the pollen level. Use a local weather app or check the National Allergy Bureau online to see how high the pollen count is each day. If your allergies are severe, spending less time outdoors on dry, windy days may be a good idea. If pollen is high, you will want to take an antihistamine one hour before exposure. Pollen can also get in your eyes, so using eye drops and wearing glasses can ease symptoms as well.

• Always Take Your Allergy Medication.

Many allergy medications and nasal sprays that used to be prescription are now available over the counter. If fall is your peak allergy season, you may need to do a combination of medications, eye drops and nasal sprays. Some people may need allergy medication daily, while others may only need it a few times a week. Consult your healthcare provider to work out a system that will help you to best manage your symptoms.

• Keep Your Indoor Area as Clean as Possible.

Dust and vacuum frequently to avoid indoor allergens. If you have been outside for a walk or gardening, you likely have pollen on your clothes, skin, and hair. Consider placing your clothes directly in the washing machine to limit the pollen distributed throughout your house. Take a shower and wash your hair prior to going to bed to limit the amount of pollen that gets onto your pillow and bedding. Dust mites and mold thrive in hot, humid environments, so running a dehumidifier can help decrease the humidity, eliminating those allergies in your home. Fans can be another major dust and pollen spreader, so you should use them sparingly. Running a fan consistently can create an allergen storm, which you may breathe in as you sleep. Instead, consider using an air purifier with a HEPA air filter.

For more information on managing fall allergies, visit:

www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hay-fever/in-depth/seasonal-allergies/art-20048343

The Kid’s Healthy Eating Plate was created as a fun and easy guide to encourage children to eat well and keep moving. The plate’s guidelines emphasize variety and quality in food choices. The formula is simple: fill half your plate (or lunch box) with colorful fruits or vegetables (aim for two to three different types), one-quarter with whole grains, and the remaining quarter with healthy proteins. Healthy fats and a small amount of dairy round out a tasty meal that will fuel an active, healthy lifestyle.

Get Inspired!

• Remember two points—choices and presentation
• Save time with meal prep
• Build super snacks to fill the gaps between meals
• Send a refillable water bottle

OFFER DIFFERENT CHOICES

• Choose any 1 fresh fruit. For example: grapes, apple slices or rings, any melon chunks (cantaloupe, honeydew, watermelon), any berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), or banana slices.
• Choose any 2 vegetables. For example: carrot coins or sticks, cucumber, broccoli, bell pepper strips, asparagus spears, or grape tomatoes.
• Choose any 1 healthy protein. For example: Beans, edamame, nuts, seeds, peanut butter, hummus, veggie burger, roasted turkey or chicken slices, or a hardboiled egg.
• Choose any 1 whole grain. For example: whole grain pasta, bread, and crackers, brown rice, quinoa, steel-cut oats, and other minimally-processed whole grains.
• Incorporating dairy (if desired). For example: unflavored milk, plain Greek yogurt, small amounts of cheese like cottage cheese, and string cheese. For dairy-free options, try soy milk and soy yogurt, which contain similar amounts of calcium, protein, and vitamin D as dairy milk.

MAKE PRESENTATION FUN

• Kabobs: Cut fruits, vegetables, and proteins into cubes or small balls and insert onto a skewer with rounded or blunt edges.
• Bento boxes: Lunchboxes that contain several small divided containers are great for portion control, keeping foods separate (if child prefer foods not touching), and encouraging a variety of foods.
• Themes: Green: edamame, cucumber coins, butter lettuce rolled in a spinach wrap spread with mashed ripe avocado. Eat a Rainbow: red grape tomatoes, orange hummus, yellow cheese, green cucumbers and bell peppers, blueberries, purple grapes.
• Shapes: Cut sandwiches into triangles or smaller squares, or use cookie cutters. Mini cookie cutters can transform apples, watermelon, or cantaloupe into juicy heart or star shapes.

For more information on packing a healthy lunchbox, visit:

nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/kids-healthy-lunchbox-guide/

Is your child starting to discover the joy of riding a bike? To help make sure a head injury doesn't spoil their fun, don't forget a helmet! Here are some questions you may have when choosing a bicycle helmet for your child.

How should a child's bicycle helmet fit?

• A helmet should be worn squarely on top of the head, covering the top of the forehead. Your child should be able to see the brim of the helmet when glancing up. Make sure the helmet sits parallel to the ground when your child's head is upright. The helmet fits well if it doesn't move around on the head or slide down over your child's eyes when it is pushed or pulled, or your child shakes their head. The chin strap should be adjusted to fit snugly.

How can I tell if a bike helmet will keep my child safe?

·         You should only buy a helmet that meets the bicycle helmet safety standards of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Check the inside of the helmet to confirm.

Are there bike helmets for infants?

• Yes. Many infant-sized helmets are of the soft-shell variety. They are light, an important consideration for small children whose necks may not be strong enough to comfortably hold a hard-shell helmet. Babies younger than 1 year old have relatively weak neck structure. Neither helmets nor bike traveling is recommended.

How long will a child's bicycle helmet fit?

• An infant's or child's helmet should fit for several years. Most models have removable fitting pads that can be replaced with thinner ones as the child's head grows. But keep in mind that helmets should be replaced every 5 years, or in the manufacturer’s recommended time frame, since materials can degrade over time.

Which is better: hard-shell or soft-shell helmets?

·         The essential part of the helmet for impact protection is a thick layer of firm polystyrene, or plastic foam, that crushes on impact, absorbing the force of the blow. All helmets require a chin strap to keep them in place in a crash.

Hard-shell bicycle helmets also have a hard outer shell of plastic or fiberglass that provides a shield against penetration by sharp objects. The hard shell also holds the polystyrene together if it cracks in a fall or crash.

Soft-shell bicycle helmets have no hard outer shell but are made of an extra-thick layer of polystyrene covered with a cloth cover or surface coating. The cloth cover is an essential part of many soft-shell helmets. If the helmet comes with a cover, the cover must always be worn to hold the helmet together if the polystyrene cracks on impact.

Both types of helmets meet CPSC standards; the main difference is style and comfort. The soft-shell helmets are lighter than the hard-shell versions but may be less durable. Although there is no consensus on the relative safety of the 2 types, models of both types have passed the CPSC test.

For more information on Children’s bicycle helmet safety, visit:

www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/bicycle-helmets-what-every-parent-should-know.aspx

The owner has come and claimed there dog.  

Washington Township Health Dept. & Green Brook Family Medicine

will be providing

Flu vaccines for ages 5 years and older

Senior Flu Vaccines will be available for those age 65 and older

Pfizer COVD vaccine for ages 12 and older

Date: September 24, 2024

TIME: 2:30 – 6pm

Location:  Senior Center, 35 East Springtown Road

Please use this link to register for the vaccine:  https://washingtontownship-vaccine.timetap.com

There is no cost for the Flu and or COVID vaccines for most insurance plans.

Note, we are unable to accept the following insurance plans:

1.    All HMO’s

2.     NJ Family Care /Medicaid Insurance.

3.     Magnacare/OSCAR/PHCS/Clover Insurances

4.     Dual Plan Horizon Medicare Advantage

5.     United Health Care/Oxford/UMR Insurance plans.

6.     United Medicare Advantage HMO-POS Plans (other plans such as PPO are accepted)

For questions about acceptance of your insurance, please call Ann at Green Brook Family Medicine at 732-356-0266 or email your card to insurance@greenbrookfamilymedicine.com

At the Clinic:

1. Please bring all insurance cards to the clinic to determine eligibility.
2. Cash Price is $40.00 for the Regular Flu vaccine
3. A parent/guardian is required to be present with children under the age of 18.
4. A provider from Green Brook Family Medicine will be available at the clinic to address any vaccine related questions.

Additional Vaccine information is located on the following websites:

Covid Vaccine Information Sheet: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/vis/vis-statements/COVID-19.pdf

Influenza Vaccine information Sheet: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/vis/vis-statements/flu.pdf

For additional information about our Clinic: Please call (908) 876-3650

BACK TO SCHOOL SAFETY

As summer draws to a close and children start heading back to school, life can get pretty hectic. It's important to remember – and share with your children – some key tips that will help keep them safe throughout the school year.

Transportation Safety

Whether children walk or take the bus to school, it is extremely important that they take proper safety precautions. Here are some tips to make sure your child safely travels to school:

Walking to school

• Review your family’s walking safety rules and practice walking to school with your child Walk on the sidewalk, if one is available; when on a street with no sidewalk, walk facing the traffic.
• Before you cross the street, stop and look left, right and left again to see if cars are coming.
• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing and always cross streets at crosswalks or intersections.
• Stay alert and avoid distracted walking.

Riding the bus to school

• Teach your children school bus safety rules and practice with them Go to the bus stop with your child to teach them the proper way to get on and off the bus.
• Teach your children to stand six feet (or 3 giant steps) away from the curb.
• If your child must cross the street in front of the bus, teach him or her to walk on the side of the road until they are 10 feet ahead of the bus; your child and the bus driver should always be able to see each other.

School Safety

Many school-related injuries are completely preventable. Follow these steps to ensure your child’s safety at school: Preventing backpack-related injuries

Choose a backpack for your child carefully; it should have ergonomically designed features to enhance safety and comfort

• Ask your child to use both straps when wearing their backpack to evenly distribute the weight on their shoulders.
• Don’t overstuff a backpack; it should weigh no more than 5-10% of your child’s body weight.
• Rolling backpacks should be used cautiously since they can create a trip hazard in crowded school hallways.

For more information on School Safety tips, visit:

www.nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/school-safety/school-safety-home

Listeria is especially harmful to people who are pregnant, aged 65 or older, or with weakened immune systems. CDC always recommends people at higher risk for listeriosis avoid eating meats sliced at the deli or heat them to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot before eating.

What People at Higher Risk Should Do

Listeria is especially harmful if you are pregnant, are aged 65 or older, or have a weakened immune system due to certain medical conditions or treatments. Other people can be infected with Listeria, but they rarely become seriously ill.

If you are pregnant, are aged 65 or older, or have a weakened immune system:

• Do not eat meats you get sliced at any deli counter, unless it is reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F or until steaming hot. Let it cool before you eat it.
• Listeria can grow on foods kept in the refrigerator, but it is easily killed by heating food to a high enough temperature.
• Clean your refrigerator, containers and surfaces that may have touched sliced deli meats.

Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these symptoms:

• People who are not pregnant usually experience fever, muscle aches, and tiredness. They may also get a headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures.

Pregnant people usually have fever, muscle aches, and tiredness. However, Listeria can cause pregnancy loss or premature birth. It can also cause serious illness or death in newborns.

Listeria Symptoms

• For people who are pregnant, Listeria can cause pregnancy loss, premature birth, or a life-threatening infection in their newborn.
• For people who are 65 years or older or who have a weakened immune system, Listeria often results in hospitalization and sometimes death.
• Symptoms usually start within 2 weeks after eating food contaminated with Listeria, but may start as early as the same day or as late as 10 weeks after.
• Pregnant people usually have fever, muscle aches, and tiredness.
• People who are not pregnant usually have fever, muscle aches, and tiredness. They may also get a headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures.

For more information on the Listeria Outbreak, visit:

www.cdc.gov/listeria/outbreaks/delimeats-7-24/index.html

Friday, August 9, 2024
9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Maximize your blood donation. Help more patients.
If you are an eligible type O, B - or A - donor, consider making a Power Red donation.

Red blood cells are the most commonly transfused blood component.
Please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org and
enter: St Lukes to schedule an appointment.

Streamline your donation experience and save up to 15 minutes by visiting RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass to complete your pre-donation reading and health history
questions on the day of your appointment.

Donors needed! Come give blood in August for $20
Amazon.com Gift Card by email.

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are used in many products such as electronics, wireless headphones, handheld power tools, small and large appliances, electric vehicles and electrical energy storage systems. If not properly managed at the end of their useful life, they can cause harm to human health or the environment.

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries should not be thrown in the trash or recycling because they can cause fires and contaminate the environment. Instead, you can take them to a certified battery electronics recycler or a household hazardous waste collection point. You can use the New Jersey "Avoid The Spark" website or call

1-877-2-RECYCLE to find a collection site near you. Some stores that may accept lithium-ion batteries include: AT&T, Best Buy, The Home Depot, Lowe's, Office Depot, Staples, Target, and Verizon.

Why should you recycle your used batteries?

All batteries can and should be recycled. If batteries, especially lithium-based, are thrown into the garbage, they can cause a spark that could endanger individuals and surrounding property. Certain types of batteries, such as Nickel Cadmium rechargeable, can contaminate the environment if not properly disposed. Batteries are valuable and recycling them can reduce the need to mine for virgin materials along with transforming reclaimable materials into other useable products. Consumer awareness is key to changing behavior and ensuring more batteries are recycled the right way and don’t end up in landfills.

For more information on properly disposing Lithium-ion batteries, visit: www.call2recycle.org/avoid-the-spark-nj/

Healthy summer eating can be a challenge. You might have meals at different times, or you may tend to snack a lot when you visit with friends. Plus, sugary and high-calorie foods ( ice cream, anyone?) are calling your name when the weather heats up!

Whether you are dining out or grilling at home, here are 7 healthy reminders:

1. Use portion control.

Healthy eating does not imply cutting out all of your favorite foods, but it doesn’t mean you can eat whatever you want. For those few unhealthy items that you can’t live without, consider moderation and stick to one serving a few times a week.

2. Make a healthy plate.

Whether you are attending a graduation party or eating at the cabin, make a healthy plate. Balance your plate with fruits, vegetables, protein and whole grains. Follow the portion and proportion guidelines from the Department of Agriculture, which recommends half of your plate be filled with fruits and vegetables, and the other half with grains, protein and dairy.

3. Read labels.

Be sure to read the nutrition facts label on food packages, or read the nutritional information on the menu carefully, noting how many total calories are in your serving. On average, one meal should range between 500–700 calories for a healthy adult. The breakfast meal usually is lighter in calories.

4. Dine and shop smart.

Even when you are dining out, remember the plate guidelines noted above. While french fries technically may be a vegetable, they aren’t considered to be healthy. Shop the perimeter of the grocery store, and visit your local farmer’s market for fresh, low-calorie produce.

5. Skip the salt, cut the fat.

When grilling, choose lean, unprocessed meats. And, when cooking, choose unsaturated fats and use less sodium. Experiment with herbs, spices and vinegars to add flavor.

6. Snack smart.

Those morning pastries, afternoon cookies and evening desserts add up. Choose fruit, low-fat yogurt, whole-grain items, or veggies and dip when looking for a snack. Fresh, in-season fruit can be a great snack, too.

7. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.

While it’s important to stay hydrated year-round, summer activities can mean increased water loss through sweat and evaporation. Pay attention to staying hydrated and what you’re drinking. Because calories from beverages can add up quickly, be sure to choose zero-calorie or low-calorie beverages. And with so many beverages on the market, remember fruit-infused or plain water is still one of the best and lowest-calorie ways to hydrate your body.

For more information on Healthy Tips for Summer Dining, visit:

www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/8-healthy-tips-for-summer-dining

Tip-over accidents typically occur when a child climbs onto, pulls up on or bumps into appliances or furniture. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that 451 children aged 17 and under were killed when furniture and TVs tipped over between 2000 and 2019. Annually, an average of 11,100 children went to the emergency room for injuries resulting from a tip-over incident between 2017 and 2019. Children under the age of six made up 79% of all furniture and TV tip-over fatalities and 75% of tip-over fatalities for children involved a TV.

What Furniture Needs to Be Anchored?

Children climbing, pulling up on or bumping into free-standing, heavy furniture can happen in almost any room of your home. Furniture that is prone to tipping includes:

• Dressers
• Desks
• Chests
• Shelving units and bookcases
• TVs and TV stands
• Tables
• Heavy Chairs
• Stoves
• Any tall and/or potentially unstable furniture or appliances

Dressers in particular pose a heightened risk of tipping over. Dressers with full-extension drawers can fall forward from the weight of the drawers and their contents.

How to Anchor Furniture

While there’s a variety of anchoring products available, there is a general set of guidelines consumers can follow. When applying the anchor to the wall, it is important to install screws into the studs designed to support your home. Studs are typically 16 inches apart and can be located using a stud finder tool.

When applying the anchor to the furniture itself, it is important to mount the fastener onto solid wood that can typically be found along the top or sides of the item. Fabric or thin wood may not be strong enough to withstand forward force, leading to a tipping incident.

For more information on anchoring furniture, please visit:

www.consumernotice.org/products/child-safety/anchoring-furniture/

Staying hydrated during the warm summer months is an important part of enjoying the season. Whether your plans include more walks or bicycle rides, soaking up the sun, or taking that long-awaited vacation, make sure you drink enough water to stay hydrated. This is necessary as it will keep your body — and mind — functioning at its best. For the average healthy adult, the general recommendation for water intake is eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day — that's 64 ounces a day. Everyone’s needs vary, however, depending on their activity level and even the climate in which they live.

Staying hydrated does not have to be just ensuring you drink water, follow these tips to ensure you stay hydrated all summer long!

• Water on the Go: Carry a funky, reusable water bottle wherever you go.

• Fruit Infusions: Add a splash of fun by infusing your water with fruits like berries, citrus, or cucumber.

• Hydration Apps: Use a hydration app with reminders to drink up.

• Eat Your Water: Snack on water-rich fruits like watermelon, strawberries, and oranges.

• Popsicle Treats: Make your own hydrating popsicles with fresh fruit juice.

• Chill with Chia: Add chia seeds to your drinks for a fun texture and hydration boost.

• Sippy Straws: Use colorful, bendy straws to make sipping more exciting.

• Smoothie Time: Blend up hydrating smoothies with fruits, veggies, and a splash of coconut water.

• Social Sips: Challenge friends to hydration goals and share progress for a fun twist on staying healthy.

For more information on staying hydrated during the summer, visit:

Diet.mayoclinic.org/us/blog/2022/how-to-stay-hydrated-over-the-summer/

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, providing support, and promoting understanding about mental health challenges and the importance of mental well-being.

Mental wellbeing doesn’t have one set meaning. We might use it to talk about how we feel, how well we’re coping with daily life or what feels possible in that moment. Good mental wellbeing doesn’t mean that you are always happy or that you’re unaffected by your experience. It doesn’t always mean you may not be facing mental health issues. You may live with a mental health problem but have good wellbeing; or you might not have a mental health problem but be struggling with your wellbeing.

Take action this month in improving your mental wellbeing by following these simple steps:

Aim to:

·         Relax and reduce stress

Try to think about what might help you to relax. If there's something that helps you, try to find time to fit it into your day. For example, this could be having a bath or shower. Go for a walk or listen to music.

·         Take a break

If you're feeling overwhelmed by a stressful situation, try to take a break. A change of scene may help you to relax and relieve feelings of distress, even just for a few minutes.

·         Do something you enjoy

Try to make time to do an activity you like on a regular basis. This could be cooking a meal, getting in touch with a friend or watching TV.

·         Focus on the present

Practice mindfulness by paying attention to the present moment and your senses while doing things you do each day, for example, while washing up or eating. Focusing on the present can help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings. Rather than being overwhelmed by your feelings, it may become easier to manage them.

For more tips on caring for your mental wellbeing, visit:

https://www.thenationalcouncil.org/mental-health-awareness-month/

Avian influenza or bird flu refers to the disease caused by infection with avian (bird) influenza (flu) Type A viruses. These viruses naturally spread among wild aquatic birds worldwide and can infect domestic poultry and other bird and animal species. Bird flu viruses do not normally infect humans.

H5N1 bird flu is widespread in wild birds worldwide and is causing outbreaks in poultry and U.S. dairy cows. As of April 28, 2024 there has only been 1 reported exposure to a dairy cow and 1 reported exposure to poultry (CDC, 2024). Both patients were instructed to isolate and were treated with an antiviral drug for flu. While the current public health risk is low, CDC is watching the situation carefully and working with states to monitor people with animal exposures.

The reported signs and symptoms of bird flu virus infections in humans have ranged from no symptoms or mild illness [such as eye redness (conjunctivitis) or mild flu-like upper respiratory symptoms], to severe (such as pneumonia requiring hospitalization) and included fever (temperature of 100ºF or greater) or feeling feverish*, cough, sore throat, runny or stuff nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue, and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. Less common signs and symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or seizures.

*Fever may not always be present

Here’s what you can do to take action and prevent the spread!

• Avoid direct contact with wild birds and observe them only from a distance, if possible. Avoid contact with wild or domestic birds that appear ill or have died.

• Avoid unprotected exposure to infected live or dead animals or surfaces contaminated by them.

• Avoid unprotected direct physical contact or close exposure with cattle and materials potentially infected or confirmed to be infected with HPAI A(H5N1) virus.

• It is safe to eat properly handled and cooked poultry in the United States. Cooking poultry and eggs to an internal temperature of 165˚F kills bacteria and viruses, including bird flu viruses. People should separate uncooked (raw) poultry from cooked foods and foods that won’t be cooked.

• Get your flu shot! Seasonal flu vaccination will not prevent infection with bird flu viruses, but can reduce the risk of getting sick with human influenza viruses and thus the risk for seasonal and bird flu co-infection.

For more information on the Avian Influenza/Bird Flu, please visit:

www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/index.htm

While it's easy to see when you need to dust or sweep, it's harder to know when the air in your home needs cleaning. In fact, the indoor air you breathe can be hazardous to your health without any telltale signs. Don't let the air in your home threaten your family's health.

Take these step to improve your indoor air quality now:

• Ensure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors installed in your home. Test the detectors and change the batteries annually.

• Open your doors or windows for at least 10 minutes each day. Even in winter, opening your windows will help improve your air. Remember, indoor air quality tends to be more polluted than outdoor air. Opening your windows or doors allows the fresher outdoor air to come inside. This dilutes the pollution inside your home, making it healthier to breathe. This no-cost solution really will help you breathe better.

• If you live near a source of outdoor air pollution, opening your windows and doors may not be a good idea. It is not advised to open your windows and doors on poor air quality days such as when wildfires have been reported affecting the air in your area. Instead, select a portable mechanical HEPA air cleaner appropriate to the size of the room. Polluted air will be brought into the air cleaner, where particulate matter, chemicals, and other pollutants are captured. Clean air is placed back into the room.

• Keep your home and car smoke free.

• Ensure your furnace filter has a minimum efficiency reporting value, specifically a MERV-13 rating. Change your furnace filter every three to six months.

• Ensure to allow for proper ventilation when burning in your home, including fireplaces, wood stoves, gas appliances, and candles.

• Avoid chemicals such as air fresheners, sprays and cleaning products or use a healthier option.

Learn more about indoor air quality at www.Lung.org/Clean-Air.

Washington Township would like to inform you that a Animal Census has started.  Census takers will be clearly identified with ID tags and driving marked vehicles with the Township logo.  Please ask to see identification if you have concerns that the person you are speaking to is not part of the census program. 

It is important to license and vaccinate your animal to protect residents and pets of Washington Township from Rabies.  Current year licensing should  have been completed prior to January 31st.  Late fees will be applied for all animals licensed after January 31st.  

Licenses may be obtained at the Tax Department in the Municipal Building.

Proof of a rabies vaccination and spaying/neutering (if applicable) is required to license your animal.  The Rabies vaccination certificate must be valid through November 1st of the licensing year.  If the certificate is not valid through November 1st of the licensing year, the animal must be vaccinated prior to licensing.

License Application Forms

The license application can be found below. Please complete the application and then print the application for EACH animal you license.  Bring this application along with the current rabies information and Spay/Neuter certificate to the office.  If you choose to mail in your application please include a self addressed stamped envelope to expedite the application.

• Dog and Cat License Application

Annual Licensing Fees if paid by January 31st

Neutered Dog $10.00 per animal

Non-neutered Dog $13.00 per animal

Neutered Cat $8.50 per animal

Non-neutered Cat $11.50 per animal

LATE FEE after January 31
$4.00 for the month of February and then $3.00 a month from March through December.

For questions regarding animal licensing please call (908) 876-3845.  

The Morris Regional Public Health Partnership (MRPHP) and The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) has created a Morris County Community Health Assessment and Community Health Improvement Plan. The Morris County Health Assessment is here and we want to hear what YOU think about health in your community!

Why should you take the Morris County Health Assessment Survey?

This is a valuable opportunity for your voice to be heard!

With your answers we will:

• Shape future health policies
• Guide resource allocation
• Address community health needs effectively
• Shape future health policies
• Tailor programs to local requirements
• Improve overall health outcomes

The survey will take approximately 15 minutes to complete and responses are confidential.  

Available in English, Spanish, Hindi, Portuguese, and Chinese.  

Strep throat is an infection in the throat and tonsils caused by bacteria called group A Streptococcus (group A strep). Group A strep bacteria IS very contagious. The bacteria IS SPREAD to others through respiratory droplets or direct contact with fluid from sores on the skin. Group A strep bacteria often live in the nose and throat.

There have been over 30 outbreaks of strep throat reported in educational settings to New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) this year.

While individual cases of strep throat are not reportable, outbreaks of any illness are reportable to the local health department where your school is located. If you suspect an outbreak, please call your local health department.

What preventive measures should a school take?

NJDOH recommends that schools and childcare settings increase education on respiratory hygiene. Staff and children should be taught and asked to follow these steps that prevent the transmission of infectious diseases such as strep throat:

• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or into your sleeve, not your hands.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

• Wash hands frequently, especially after coughing or sneezing.

• Stay home if you're sick, especially with a fever.

Additional preventive measures include:

• Routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs.

• Have an adequate supply of tissues, soap, paper towels, alcohol-based hand rubs, and disposable wipes.

• Adhere to exclusion recommendations from public health, for strep throat: at least 12-24 hours have passed since they started their antibiotic treatment AND they feel well enough to participate in their normal activities AND have been fever-free for 24 hours without using fever reducing medications.

For more information on prevention and control of communicable diseases in schools, visit:

www.nj.gov/health/cd/topics/schoolhealth.shtml

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of measles usually begin 10–14 days after exposure to the virus. A prominent rash is the most visible symptom. Early symptoms usually last 4–7 days. They include:

• Running nose
• Cough
• Red and watery eyes
• Small white spots inside the cheeks.

The rash begins about 7–18 days after exposure, usually on the face and upper neck. It spreads over about 3 days, eventually to the hands and feet. It usually lasts 5–6 days before fading.

Who is at high-risk for measles?

Measles can be serious in all age groups. However, there are several groups that are more likely to suffer from measles complications:

• Children younger than 5 years of age
• Adults older than 20 years of age
• Pregnant women
• People with compromised immune systems, such as from leukemia or HIV infection

Severe complications that can occur in children and adults

• Hospitalization. About 1 in 5 unvaccinated people in the U.S. who get measles is hospitalized.

• Pneumonia. As many as 1 out of every 20 children with measles gets pneumonia, the most common cause of death from measles in young children.

• Encephalitis. About 1 child out of every 1,000 who get measles will develop encephalitis (swelling of the brain) that can lead to convulsions and can leave the child deaf or with intellectual disability.
• Death. Nearly 1 to 3 of every 1,000 children who become infected with measles will die from respiratory and neurologic complications.
• Complications during pregnancy. Measles may cause pregnant women who have not had the MMR vaccine to give birth prematurely or have a low-birth-weight baby.

For more information on Measles, signs/symptoms and associated complications, please visit:

www.cdc.gov/measles/index.html

The Animal Control Officer has received a call regarding a lost dog.  He is a 1yr Old Shiba Inu named Cooper.  Please call 908-876-3232 and press the prompt for dispatch if you have any information regarding this dog. He was last seen near Schooley's Mt. Road and Route 57 intersection.  

The third annual Shingles Awareness Week is from February 26-March 1, 2024. Shingles Awareness Week was established to raise awareness around misconceptions about the risks of developing shingles. Over 90% of adults over the age of 50 already carry the virus that causes shingles and over 30% of adults will develop shingles in their lifetime.

Shingles Myths and Facts

• Myth: The biggest problem about shingles is dealing with the rash.

Fact: Though rash is one of the defining characteristics of shingles, pain is actually a very common and troubling symptom of shingles.

The pain associated with shingles can be severe. It may begin two to four days before the rash appears and it can last long after–sometimes up to a year or more. The pain that lasts after the rash has healed is called post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), that has been described as burning, stabbing, throbbing, and/or shooting pain.

• Myth: Shingles is very rare.

Fact: In the US, about 1 million individuals get shingles every year and half of the population who lives to age 85 years will experience shingles during their lifetime. You have a greater chance of getting shingles as you get older; so, as the population ages, it is likely that more people who do not get vaccinated will get shingles every year.

• Myth: There is nothing I can do to avoid getting shingles.

Fact: There are safe, effective vaccines available to help prevent shingles. Vaccination is the best way to reduce your chance of developing shingles. If you do get shingles, the vaccine can reduce your chances of long-lasting pain.

Shingles vaccination is recommended for all healthy adults age 50 years and older, and for adults age 19 years and older who have weakened immune systems because of disease or therapy.

The pain associated with shingles can be very severe and may last weeks, months, or even years after it begins, so don’t let a preventable disease like shingles interfere with your quality of life. Shingles vaccine is available in pharmacies and doctor’s offices. Talk with your healthcare professional if you have questions about shingles vaccination.

• Myth: Shingles is the same disease as the chickenpox.

Fact: Although shingles and chickenpox are caused by the same virus, they are not the same illness. Chickenpox is usually a milder illness that affects children. Shingles results from a re-activation of the virus long after the chickenpox illness has disappeared. While it typically resolves in about a month for most people, it can also cause severe and long-lasting pain that is very difficult to treat.

• Myth: Shingles only affects older people.

Fact: Shingles typically affects older people, but it can also occur in healthy younger persons and even in children. Those whose immune systems have been weakened by HIV infection, AIDS, cancer, or treatment with certain drugs are also at increased risk of getting shingles.

For more information on Shingles, visit:

www.nfid.org/infectious-disease/shingles/

Licenses may be obtained at the Tax Department in the Municipal Building.

Proof of a rabies vaccination and spaying/neutering (if applicable) is required to license your animal.  The Rabies vaccination certificate must be valid through November 1st of the licensing year.  If the certificate is not valid through November 1st of the licensing year, the animal must be vaccinated prior to licensing.

License Application Forms

The license application can be found below. Please complete the application and then print the application for EACH animal you license.  Bring this application along with the current rabies information and Spay/Neuter certificate to the office.  If you choose to mail in your application please include a self addressed stamped envelope to expedite the application.

• Dog and Cat License Application

Annual Licensing Fees if paid by January 31st

Neutered Dog $10.00 per animal

Non-neutered Dog $13.00 per animal

Neutered Cat $8.50 per animal

Non-neutered Cat $11.50 per animal

LATE FEE after January 31
$4.00 for the month of February and then $3.00 a month from March through December.

For questions regarding animal licensing please call (908) 876-3845.  

February is American Heart Month – a time when the nation spotlights heart disease, the nation's leading killer. Every 40 seconds someone has a heart attack. Getting medical help quickly is crucial in response to a heart attack or stroke. But it's important to know the signs in both men and women so you can act quickly and efficiently.

Men:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Jaw, Neck or back pain

• Discomfort or pain in arm or shoulder

• Squeezing chest pressure or pain

• Shortness of breath

Women:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Jaw, Neck or upper back pain

• Discomfort or pain in arm or shoulder

• Chest pain but not always

• Shortness of breath

• Fainting

• Indigestion

• Extreme fatigue

The most common symptom of a heart attack for both men and women is chest pain. But women may experience less obvious warning signs.

For more information on sign of a heart attack or stroke, visit:

www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/warning-signs-of-a-heart-attack

Winter in New Jersey is a time of unique beauty and unique risks. Wind chill can cause frostbite. Freezing rain can cause dangers on the road. Nor'easters have the potential to cause more damage than hurricanes.

Stay safe this winter by following the tips below on winter preparedness:

Helping Your Neighbors

If someone you know is elderly or dependent on life-sustaining or health-related equipment such as a ventilator, respirator or oxygen concentrator, encourage them to be safe during severe winter weather and possible power outages.

• Offer to help them stock an emergency kit including a flashlight and extra batteries, a battery-operated radio, bottled water, non-perishable foods, essential medicines and extra blankets or sleeping bags.

• Encourage them to register as a person with disability with Register Ready - New Jersey Special Needs Registry for Disasters. Sign up for Rave notifications for Washington Township OEM messages or register with AlertMorris which is utilized by the Morris County Office of Emergency Management, to get emergency alerts via email, text, phone, or social media!

• Encourage your neighbor develop a list of emergency numbers and encourage them to keep it handy. Ask them how you can be most helpful if they needed assistance. Offer to include your neighbor’s emergency contacts in your list.

• Check on them after a storm or power outage.

On The Road

• Buckle up - secure yourself and all passengers.

• Brake properly to avoid skidding. If driving on snow or ice, start slowly and brake gently. Begin braking early when you come to an intersection. If you start to slide: ease off the gas pedal or brakes. Steer into the direction of the skid until you regain traction then straighten your vehicle. If you have antilock brakes, apply steady pressure.

• Expect decreased visibility. In fog, drive with headlights set on dim or use fog lights. In rain, fog, snow or sleet, stay within the limits of your vision. Pull off the road and stop if you can’t see clearly.

• Slow down. Physically and mentally, prepare to react quickly. Drive slowly and increase your following distance. Adjust your speed for conditions. Match the flow of traffic. Watch for slick spots.

For more information on Preparing for Winter Emergencies, visit:

https://nj.gov/njoem/plan-prepare/winter.shtml

With severe weather, public health officials are urging consumers to practice good food safety during power outages. One important thing to remember is that placing perishable food outside in snow does not provide the proper cooling to keep food safe.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has listed the following food safety measures for those experiencing power outages:

Be Prepared and Plan Ahead

• Have a refrigerator and freezer thermometer, and check it regularly to ensure that the refrigerator temperature is at or below 41 degrees F and the freezer is at or below 0 degrees F.
• Freeze refrigerated items that you may not need immediately, and group foods close together in the freezer.
• Stock your pantry with a few days’ worth of ready-to-eat foods (those that can be consumed without cooking), that do not require refrigeration, frozen storage, or special preparation.

If the Power Goes Out

• Cold temperatures slow the growth of harmful bacteria. Keeping food at safe temperatures is key to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. The refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours, and a full freezer will keep the temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if half full) if the doors remain closed.
• Use ice (dry or block ice, or ice cubes) and frozen containers of water or gel packs to keep your refrigerator and freezer as cold as possible.

When Power is Restored

• Before eating any food after a power outage, check the temperatures inside your refrigerator and freezer.
• If the power was out for 4 hours or less, refrigerated food should be safe as long as the doors were kept closed. When the power comes back on, check the temperature in the refrigerator or of the food.
• Perishable foods such as meat, poultry, seafood, milk, eggs, or leftovers with temperatures that are 45 degrees F or below, measured with a food thermometer, should be safe but cook and consume them as soon as possible.
• Discard any perishable food that has been at temperatures above 40 degrees F for 4 hours or more.

Learn more about how to keep your food and water safe during a power outage at:

www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/food-and-water-safety-during-power-outages-and-floods.

When septic systems are properly designed, constructed and maintained, they effectively reduce or eliminate most human health or environmental threats posed by pollutants in household wastewater. However, they require regular maintenance, or they can fail. Septic systems need to be monitored to ensure they work properly throughout their service lives.

How Do I Maintain My Septic System?

Inspect and Pump Frequently

The DEP recommends the average septic system be inspected and pumped every 3 to 5 years by an industry professional. The exact frequency of pumping and inspection is influenced by four factors:

1.       The number of people in your household

2.       The amount of wastewater generated (based on the number of people in the household and the amount of water used)

3.       The volume of solids in the wastewater (whether there are water-saving fixtures or a garbage disposal in the home)

4.       The septic tank size.

Inspections for septic systems serve various purposes, including real estate transactions, septic management programs, or local health department regulations. Systems with mechanical components may require more frequent inspections. During inspections, the septic tank is typically pumped to check for leaks, and measurements of scum and sludge layers are taken. If the scum layer is within 6 inches of the outlet tee's bottom or the sludge layer is within 12 inches, the tank is at maximum capacity. Recording these levels in maintenance records helps determine the necessary frequency of pumping for optimal system performance.

For more information on maintaining your septic system contact your local health department and check for septic records and if permits are needed for pumping , or visit:

www.nj.gov/dep/dwq/owm_home.htm

Washington Township would like to remind you to license your pets.  Licensing should be completed prior to January 31st to avoid late fees.  

Licenses may be obtained at the Tax Department in the Municipal Building.

Proof of a rabies vaccination and spaying/neutering (if applicable) is required to license your animal.  The Rabies vaccination certificate must be valid through November 1st of the licensing year.  If the certificate is not valid through November 1st of the licensing year, the animal must be vaccinated prior to licensing.

License Application Forms

The license application can be found below. Please complete the application and then print the application for EACH animal you license.  Bring this application along with the current rabies information and Spay/Neuter certificate to the office.  If you choose to mail in your application please include a self addressed stamped envelope to expedite the application.

• Dog and Cat License Application

Annual Licensing Fees if paid by January 31st

Neutered Dog $10.00 per animal

Non-neutered Dog $13.00 per animal

Neutered Cat $8.50 per animal

Non-neutered Cat $11.50 per animal

LATE FEE after January 31
$4.00 for the month of February and then $3.00 a month from March through December.

For questions regarding animal licensing please call (908) 876-3845.  

The Washington Township Health Department will be offering a free rabies clinic to be held at the DPW building located at 54 Rock Road from 9am to 11am on January 6th, 2024.  The clinic is open to all NJ residents and vaccinations will be given on a first come, first serve basis.   A line typically forms outside the vaccination facility, so please dress accordingly.  All dogs must be leashed (and muzzled if necessary) and cats must be in carriers.  Registration is not required.  Please pull into the parking lot near the salt towers.  We will try to provide enough parking for all participants.  Licensing will also be available at the clinic for the Washington Township residents.  Please call with any questions.  

Looking ahead to holiday gatherings, events and activities may fill you with anticipation and excitement, along with a little angst. You may feel that build-up of anxiety as the holidays approach. According to a recent American Psychiatric Association poll, nearly one in three Americans expects to be more stressed this holiday season than last year.

Here are some coping strategies to help you improve your mental health during the holidays:

Preventing Burnout — It’s OK to Say No

For many, the holiday season brings joy, but it can also bring more stress and some conflicting obligations. It is important to prioritize and simplify: prioritize what brings joy and emotional recharge (people or activities) and simplify when you can. It’s okay to say no to situations that stress you out, whether it's attending a party with people who have mistreated you or missing a party in a week that's been too intense at work.

Take a break

Many families have that one member who can turn a pleasant conversation into a family feud. If you see things are starting to take a turn for the worse, try not to let it escalate. There is no shame in removing yourself from the situation. Get up and leave the room or step outside until everyone cools down.

Get Some Fresh Air and Sunlight

Getting fresh air and exposure to sunlight can help relax you and lift your mood. Many people struggle with some feelings of depression during the winter months with fewer hours of sunlight and more time spent indoors. Walking outside in the sun can be an effective centering and calming tool.

Grief and Loss

During the holiday season, many people may have a more difficult time missing a loved one they have lost or simply experience increased grief or loss. This can be especially true for people having their first holiday season without a loved one. Instead of trying to avoid thinking about your loved one, honor and celebrate them by getting together with other family members and friends and treasuring their life stories, especially stories that highlight important aspects of their life and personality.

Financial stress

Holiday spending can easily leave people in debt, contributing to stress that may last well into the new year. This year’s inflation is only adding to the financial burden. Try to avoid overspending and focus on celebrating together and showing affection by being present, engaging, and supporting each other.

For more information on Managing Mental Health During the Holidays, visit:

www.psychiatry.org/news-room/apa-blogs/seven-ways-to-cope-with-holiday-stress

The end of the year is a busy time. On top of that, the seasons are changing (Winter officially begins on December 21), which can affect your physical and mental health. Now more than ever, it’s important to take care of yourself!

With shorter days and colder weather on the horizon, it’s important to maintain healthy habits. And that means doing more than just bundling up.

Here are some ways to stay healthy during cold weather:

·         Get a flu shot. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s more important than ever to help prevent the spread of flu. No one wants to come down with the flu — it can cause symptoms such as coughing, congestion, fever, and fatigue that can last up to two weeks. Protect yourself and your family from getting sick by getting the flu vaccine. Recent studies show that flu vaccination reduces the risk of flu between 40 to 60 percent.

·         Wash your hands often. Winter is peak season for contagious illnesses. The most effective way to remove and prevent the spread of illness-causing germs is to wash your hands frequently. When washing your hands, remember to get a good lather of soap on your hands, and scrub for at least 20 seconds with warm water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to help slow the spread of viruses.

·         Eat for immunity. As part of your efforts to stay well and avoid the cold and flu this winter, it’s important to eat healthy foods that support your immune system, including mushrooms, garlic, citrus fruits, herbs and spices, probiotics, prebiotics, and chicken soup. For example, yogurt is one of the best sources of probiotics. Apples, bananas, garlic, and onions are good sources of prebiotics.

·         Get some sun. While the availability of sunlight is limited during the winter months, it’s important to spend some time outdoors even when it’s cold. Sunlight has been shown to help improve your mood by boosting the release of a hormone called serotonin. Exposure to sunlight is especially important to help treat those suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression. Exposure to sunlight also helps regulate your circadian rhythm, which controls your body clock and affects sleep habits.

·         Maintain good skin health. Cold weather can wreak havoc on your skin, leaving you with dryness, flaking, cracking, and in some cases, eczema. To keep your skin moist and healthy through the winter, be sure to drink plenty of water, hydrate your skin with an ointment moisturizer, and use sunscreen whenever you’re out during the day. Exposure to the sun’s rays, even in the winter, can still have damaging effects on your skin, so be sure to choose a sunscreen that has an SPF factor of 30 or above to ensure adequate protection.

For more information on Cold Weather Wellness Tips, visit:

https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/features/winterweather/index.html