Recent Press Releases
Health Department Publishes Illustrated Novella About the Colonoscopy Preparation and Procedure Process
December 14, 2018
The Health Department today published a new illustrated novella about the preparation process and procedure for colonoscopies. The novella, Preparing for a Colonoscopy: Sandra’s Story, follows a woman as she prepares for a colonoscopy – she consumes a liquid diet, avoids opaque liquids, and coordinates with someone to pick her up after the surgery.
De Blasio Administration Launches "Thrive Together" Campaign to Encourage Use of Mental Health Helpline
December 13, 2018
First Lady Chirlane McCray announced today the launch of a new campaign aimed at encouraging New Yorkers to contact NYC Well for mental health support. The “Thrive Together” campaign was launched on the heels of ThriveNYC’s third anniversary aims to promote the free service, which is staffed by counselors and peer support specialists that provide crisis counseling and information, and referrals to ongoing services, regardless of a New Yorker’s immigration status or insurance coverage.
Health Department Launches the NYC Standards for Respectful Care at Birth
December 10, 2018
In recognition of Human Rights Day, the Health Department joined NYC Health + Hospitals/Harlem to announce today the launch of the NYC Standards for Respectful Care at Birth, which details the human rights of pregnant New Yorkers during and after childbirth.
To Commemorate World Aids Day, Health Department and Community Partners Host Citywide Event and Fifth Annual Red Ball
November 30, 2018
To commemorate World AIDS Day 2018, the Health Department today joined the End AIDS NY 2020 Coalition – a coalition of over 60 community partners from across New York State – and the New York State Department of Health to host the fifth annual World AIDS Day citywide event at Baruch College’s Mason Hall in Midtown East.
De Blasio Administration Announces Historic Low for New HIV Diagnoses, Down 64 Percent Since Reporting Began in 2001
November 29, 2018
The de Blasio Administration announced the annual number of new HIV diagnoses in New York City has reached an all-time low, with 2,157 New Yorkers getting newly diagnosed last year. According to data from the 2017 HIV Surveillance Annual Report (PDF), newly diagnosed cases declined last year, down 5.4 percent from 2016.
NYC Emergency Management and the Health Department Remind New Yorkers to Prepare for Extreme Cold on Thursday
November 21, 2018
The New York City Emergency Management Department and the Health Department continue to remind individuals to prepare for extremely cold temperatures on Thursday. According to the National Weather Service forecast, an arctic front will cause temperatures to rapidly drop Wednesday evening into Thursday.
NYC Emergency Management and the Health Department Urge New Yorkers to Prepare for Extreme Cold During Thursday's Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
November 20, 2018
The New York City Emergency Management Department and the Health Department are urging individuals to prepare for extremely cold temperatures during Thursday’s Thanksgiving Day parade. According to the National Weather Service forecast, temperatures Thursday will be in the low to mid-20s with wind chill values as low as single digits.
Health Department, Animal Care Centers of NYC Celebrate Council Passing of Uniform Land Use Review Procedure Application
November 14, 2018
The de Blasio administration, in collaboration with Council Speaker Corey Johnson, announced today that it cleared the final step to begin building the Bronx Animal Shelter. The Council approved the Administration’s land use application of the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP), clearing the way for construction on the site to begin.
Health Department Launches Campaign to Encourage Primary Care Providers to Screen and Treat for Depression
November 13, 2018
The Health Department today launched a campaign to expand the screening and treatment of depression in primary care settings. This initiative is part of the Health Department’s efforts to prioritize awareness and services around mental health and builds on the significant actions of ThriveNYC, led by First Lady Chirlane McCray, to reduce stigma and close treatment gaps for mental health in New York City.
Health Department Closes Investigation of Second Lower Washington Heights Legionnaires’ Disease Cluster, Identifies Cooling Tower At Sugar Hill Project As Likely Source
November 9, 2018
The Health Department announced today that the investigation of the second Lower Washington Heights Legionnaires’ disease cluster is over. There were 32 cases associated with this second cluster, including one death. Thirty people were hospitalized, and 25 have been discharged.
Health Department Announces Letter Grade Rules For Mobile Food Vendors
November 9, 2018
The Health Department today published rules in the City Record for the new letter grading program for food carts and trucks, which will launch in December. This program introduces a scoring system similar to that used in restaurants. Mobile food vendors will now receive points for violations at their food safety inspections, and their total inspection score will correspond to an “A”, “B” or “C” grade, which will be posted on the unit.
Health Department Releases Poison Control Center Data
November 5, 2018
The Health Department today released a Vital Signs report highlighting data from its Poison Control Center (PCC). The report provides data on unintentional and intentional poisoning exposures. More than 63,000 potential poisoning cases were reported to the PCC in 2016, nearly 80 percent of which were unintentional poisonings. Among all unintentional cases, 41 percent involved children under the age of 6 in which personal care products and household cleaners were the most common poisoning substances. More than 6,000 potential poisoning cases involved intentional suicide attempts.
Health Department Reports Eleven New Cases of Measles in Brooklyn's Orthodox Jewish Community, Urges On Time Vaccination for All Children, Especially Before Traveling to Israel and Other Countries Experiencing Measles Outbreaks
November 2, 2018
The Health Department today is reporting eleven new cases of children with confirmed measles, bringing the total to seventeen. Communities in Williamsburg and Borough Park are affected.The children with measles range in age from 7 months to 4 years.
Health Department Nurse-Family Partnership Program Celebrates 15 Years with Nearly 16,000 Families Served
October 26, 2018
The Health Department today celebrated the New York City Nurse-Family Partnership program, which has served approximately 16,000 families. Launched in 2003, the NYC Nurse-Family Partnership pairs first-time, low-income mothers with trained nurses who meet with them weekly throughout the pregnancy until the child’s second birthday.
The Health Department Reminds New Yorkers: A Flu Vaccine Is the Best Protection against Influenza
October 25, 2018
The Health Department today is reminding New Yorkers that all persons 6 months of age and older should get a seasonal flu vaccine. It is especially important for adults ages 50 and older, pregnant women, children 6 months to 5 years, and people with chronic diseases to be vaccinated.
Health Department Expands Initiative to Educate Primary Care Providers about Naloxone
October 23, 2018
The Health Department today announced a new initiative to educate primary care providers about naloxone – the medication to reverse an opioid overdose. Health Department representatives will visit at least 800 primary care clinicians from October to December to encourage them to offer naloxone to patients at risk of an opioid overdose and those who have at-risk friends or family members.
Health Department Launches eVital, a New System with Facial Recognition Technology to Register Births and Deaths
October 22, 2018
The Health Department launched eVital, a new system for reporting births and deaths in New York City. eVital, used primarily by hospitals and funeral directors, will replace the decade-old Electronic Vital Events Registration System (EVERS). Last year, 12,000 people used this system to register 122,000 births, 53,000 deaths, and issue one million official certificates.
Health Department Releases "Block by Block" Report on Walking in East Harlem, Hosts Third Annual Harlem Walk-a-Thon
October 20, 2018
The Health Department's Center for Health Equity today released "Block by Block: Walking for a Healthier East Harlem," a report on walking in East Harlem based on a survey of over 200 residents and street assessments of more than 20 blocks."
Health Department Announces the National Salt and Sugar Reduction Initiative
October 19, 2018
The Health Department announced today a national effort to reduce sugar in packaged foods by 20 percent by 2025. The National Salt and Sugar Reduction Initiative (NSSRI) is a partnership of nearly 100 local, city and state health departments, associations, and health organizations across the country.
Health Department Warns Orthodox Jewish Community of Increase in Measles Cases; Urges Vaccination for All Children, Especially Before Traveling to Israel and Other Countries Experiencing Measles Outbreaks
October 17, 2018
The Health Department today is reporting six individuals with confirmed measles this month in the Orthodox Jewish community in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The initial case of measles was acquired by a child on a visit to Israel, where a large outbreak of the disease is occurring.
Health Department and Harvard Study Shows Increase in Preterm Births among Latina Women in New York City Associated With 2016 Presidential Election
October 17, 2018
The Health Department and the Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health today published Severe Sociopolitical Stressors and Preterm Births in New York City, a study showing that the 2016 presidential campaign and election may be associated with a significant increase in preterm birth rates among Latinas in New York City.
Health Department Expands Hours and Services at Corona Sexual Health Clinic, Launches Second “¡LISTOS!” Campaign
October 15, 2018
To commemorate National Latinx AIDS Awareness Day, the Health Department today announced the expansion of services and hours at the Corona Sexual Health Clinic and the second installment of the “¡Listos!,” campaign.
Health Department Expands “Undesign the Redline” Exhibit to East Harlem And Brownsville Health Action Centers
October 12, 2018
The Health Department's Center for Health Equity, in partnership with the social impact studio Designing the WE, today announced the expansion of the exhibit Undesign the Redline to the Brownsville, Brooklyn and East Harlem Neighborhood Health Action Centers. Undesign the Redline opened last January at the Bronx Action Center.
Health Department Announces First Citywide Initiative to Prevent and Control High Blood Pressure
October 10, 2018
The Health Department today announced “Take the Pressure Off, NYC!” (PDF), its first citywide initiative to prevent and control high blood pressure. The Department announced Take the Pressure Off, NYC! today at the second annual citywide High Blood Pressure Coalition Summit, which brought together over 100 stakeholders in 13 sectors – including faith- and community-based organizations, employers, health care systems, pharmacies, organized labor, health insurance payers and government.
Health Department Investigating Second Community Cluster of Legionnaires’ Disease in Lower Washington Heights
October 5, 2018
The Health Department is currently investigating a second community cluster of Legionnaires’ disease in Lower Washington Heights. Eight people have been diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease within five days.
Health Department Launches New Anti-Smoking Media Campaign Targeting Male Smokers
October 3, 2018
The Health Department today launched a new media campaign to encourage men to quit smoking.
Health Department Releases Analysis of 2017 Drug Overdose Deaths: Epidemic Continues, but Rate of Increase Significantly Slows Down
September 17, 2018
The Health Department today published an Epi Data Brief analyzing the latest 2017 confirmed drug overdose death data in New York City. The provisional Data Brief shows that drug overdose deaths in New York City remained at epidemic levels in 2017.
Health Department’s Active Design Program Encourages Physical Activity in Schools
September 17, 2018
The Health Department today announced the completion of the 2018 Active Design in Schools program to promote physical activity for children. This year, the program created interactive art installations in 11 public schools across the city, reaching nearly 7,000 students in grades K-12.These projects included interactive indoor and outdoor murals and play spaces.
Board of Health Amends Health Code Expanding Access to Services For Those Experiencing Psychosis For The First Time
September 13, 2018
The New York City Board of Health yesterday approved an amendment to the Health Code to lower the age to 16 when hospitals are required to report a patient admitted with first-episode psychosis to the Health Department. Psychosis includes schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders where a person has lost touch with reality.
Dr. Mary T. Bassett Leaves the Health Department; Dr. Oxiris Barbot Becomes Acting Health Commissioner
August 31, 2018
The Health Department announced today the departure of Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett. Appointed to the position in January 2014, Dr. Bassett leaves her post to accept a position as the Francois-Xavier Bagnoud Professor of the Practice of Public Health and Human Rights at the Harvard T. H. T. H. Chan School of Public Health, where she will assume the Directorship to the FXB Center of Health and Human Rights at Harvard University. Starting tomorrow, First Deputy Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot, who previously served as Health Commissioner in Baltimore, will become Acting Health Commissioner.
Health Department Releases First Quarterly Report On Childhood Blood Lead Level Surveillance Data
August 30, 2018
The Health Department today released the new Childhood Blood Lead Level Surveillance Quarterly Report (PDF) covering the first and second quarters of 2018 (January through June).
In Recognition of National Immunization Awareness Month, the Health Department Reminds New Yorkers to Get Vaccinated
August 27, 2018
In recognition of National Immunization Awareness Month, the Health Department reminds New Yorkers about the importance of vaccines. Vaccination not only protects the person receiving the vaccine, it also helps prevent the spread of disease and protects those most vulnerable to serious complications, including infants and young children, the elderly, and those with chronic conditions and weakened immune systems.
Department of Agriculture and Cornell University to Vaccinate Raccoons in Parts of Staten Island, Brooklyn and Queens to Help Prevent Spread of Rabies
August 24, 2018
On Monday, August 27 through Friday, August 31, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., wildlife biologists from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Cornell University will distribute oral rabies vaccines for raccoons in Staten Island and the Gateway National Recreation Area in Brooklyn and Queens.
Health Department Announces More Than 700 Brooklyn Residents Trained In Overdose Prevention through Partnership with Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams and the Brooklyn Public Library
August 24, 2018
As part of HealingNYC, the Health Department announced today that more than 700 Brooklyn residents have been trained in overdose prevention through a partnership with Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams and the Brooklyn Public Library.
Health Department Recognizes Breastfeeding-Friendly Spaces in Brooklyn, Launches Breastfeeding Toolkit and Baby Cafes
August 23, 2018
In recognition of National Breastfeeding Month, the Health Department’s Center for Health Equity today recognized ten local businesses and partners in Brooklyn with breastfeeding-friendly spaces and launched a breastfeeding toolkit for small businesses. The breastfeeding toolkit will be distributed to local business owners in neighborhoods with the lowest rates of breastfeeding.
As Part of HealingNYC, Health Department Announces Buprenorphine Treatment in Six Emergency Departments
August 21, 2018
As part of HealingNYC, the Health Department announced today that six emergency departments now offer buprenorphine so patients can start to treat their opioid addiction before they leave the hospital. The locations are: Maimonides Medical Center, NYU Langone Hospital–Brooklyn, Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island University Hospital, NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue and NYC Health + Hospitals/Metropolitan.
Health Department’s “Making Waves” Program Teaches More Than 2,500 Children How to Swim
August 20, 2018
The Health Department today announced its Making Waves program taught more than 2,500 children how to swim this summer. The program provides free water safety and swim instruction for 6- to 18-year-old kids and youth from low-income neighborhoods around the city.
With The Level of West Nile Virus in Mosquitoes Increasing, Health Department Urges New Yorkers, Especially Those at Higher Risk for Severe Disease, To Protect Themselves from Mosquito Bites
August 16, 2018
The Health Department today announced that more mosquitos are testing positive for West Nile virus across the city, and continues to remind residents to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites. West Nile virus can cause severe illness, including meningitis and encephalitis most often in individuals over age 50 or those with a weakened immune system.
Health Department Closes Investigation of Lower Washington Heights Legionnaires' Cluster, Identifies Likely Source
August 14, 2018
The Health Department announced today that the investigation of the Lower Washington Heights Legionnaires’ disease cluster is over. There have been no new cases added to the cluster in the last three weeks
Health Department Identifies Single Asian Longhorned Tick on Staten Island
August 8, 2018
The Health Department today announced that a recently recognized invasive tick species now found in parts of the United States was for the first time in New York City. The tick, Haemaphysalis longicornis, also known as the longhorned tick, was found in the southern section of Staten Island.
New Mural in East Harlem Encourages New Yorkers to Drink Water Instead of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages
August 7, 2018
Odyssey House, a behavioral health care organization, worked with clients in recovery from substance use and mental health disorders to create the artworks. The “Drink Water” mural is located on Odyssey House’s fence on 121st street between 2nd and 3rd Avenues in East Harlem, and an art exhibition is inside the building at 239 E.121st street.
As Part of HealingNYC, Health Department Expands Nurse Care Manager Program for Opioid Addiction Treatment at Community Health Centers
July 30, 2018
As part of HealingNYC, the Health Department announced the expansion of the Buprenorphine Nurse Care Manager Initiative, which provides buprenorphine treatment in health centers that serve people who are often uninsured or underinsured.
Health Department Releases Annual Vital Statistics Data Showing Improvements for the City Overall, But Racial Disparities Persist
July 27, 2018
The Health Department released the 2016 Summary of Vital Statistics, an annual report of births and deaths in New York City. Life expectancy in New York City is 81.2 years, a 1.1 year increase since 2007.
Health Department Announces Funding for Substance Use Prevention Program for At-Risk Youth in Staten Island
July 26, 2018
The Health Department today announced $300,000 in funding towards a Staten Island program for youth at risk of, or in the early stages of, substance use disorder. The program, called South Shore SafeTY.net, provides support for youth ages 16 to 24.
Health Department Unveils Three New Mental Health Murals in Expansion of the NYC Mural Arts Project
July 26, 2018
The Health Department announced the completion of the second season of the NYC Mural Arts Project, which funded three new murals about mental health in Morrisania and Mount Hope, the Bronx and Crown Heights, Brooklyn.
As Part of HealingNYC, Health Department Expands Buprenorphine Treatment to Syringe Exchange Program in Staten Island
July 25, 2018
As part of HealingNYC, the Health Department announced today the expansion of buprenorphine treatment to the syringe exchange program (SEP) in Staten Island – Community Health Action of Staten Island (CHASI).
Mayor de Blasio and Borough President Oddo Announce New Tick Control Initiative on Staten Island
July 23, 2018
Mayor Bill de Blasio and Borough President Jimmy today announced a new initiative that will enhance tick surveillance, outreach and control measures on Staten Island to reduce the risk of Lyme and other diseases that are acquired from tick bites. The City will increase spending by approximately $600,000 a year.
Health Department Celebrates 10-Year Anniversary of the Bronx Knows
July 20, 2018
The Health Department announced the 10-year anniversary of The Bronx Knows, New York City’s first borough-wide HIV testing initiative. Since its 2008 launch, The Bronx Knows’ community partners have conducted more than 2.2 million HIV tests and helped link people who test positive to HIV care. The success of The Bronx Knows led to the launch of Brooklyn Knows in 2010.
Health Department Investigating Community Cluster of Legionnaires’ Disease in Lower Washington Heights
July 11, 2018
The Health Department is currently investigating a community cluster of Legionnaires’ disease in Lower Washington Heights. Eight people have been diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease in the last seven days. All of the individuals were hospitalized; one has been discharged.
Health Department Publishes Comprehensive Studies on the Health of New Yorkers
July 10, 2018
The Health Department and the NYU School of Medicine researchers today published a series of studies in The Journal of Urban Health analyzing 2004 and 2013-14 data around six topics relevant to the health of New Yorkers: obesity, diabetes, depression, mercury levels among adults, the correlation between sleep patterns and sexual orientation, and gender and race disparities in cardiovascular risk factors.
Health Department Reminds New Yorkers to Leave Fireworks to the Experts
July 3, 2018
Tomorrow is the Fourth of July, and the Health Department reminds New Yorkers about the serious risks and dangers of fireworks. Fireworks can cause serious burns and eye injuries and should be handled by professionals.
Health Department Opens First Clinic Dedicated to Express Testing for Sexually Transmitted Infections
July 2, 2018
The Health Department today announced the opening of Chelsea Express, a dedicated space located in the same building as the Chelsea Sexual Health Clinic, where patients who don’t have symptoms can get tested for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and HIV without having to see a clinician. Although all eight of the Health Department’s Sexual Health Clinics offer express testing services, Chelsea Express is the City’s first express clinic, ensuring that patients have fast and easy access to routine testing for STIs.
Health Department Confirms First Human Case of West Nile Virus for 2018 Season, Reminds New Yorkers to Reduce Exposure to Mosquitoes
June 29, 2018
The Health Department confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus and the first collection of mosquitoes infected with the virus of the 2018 season. The patient, a resident of Manhattan who is over 50 years of age, was hospitalized earlier this month with encephalitis and has since been discharged.
Mayor de Blasio, Speaker Johnson Announce Additional $3 Million for Animal Care Centers of NYC, Raising Budget to Highest-Ever $17.6 Million in FY19
June 22, 2018
Mayor de Blasio and Speaker Johnson today announced that the City is providing an additional $3 million for Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC) in fiscal year 2019, bringing the organization’s budget to a historic high. The additional funds will enable ACC to expand its medical and community pet services and purchase an additional mobile adoption van.
Health Department, United Hospital Fund and Partners Release Joint Report on Small Primary Care Practices in New York City
June 14, 2018
The Health Department, United Hospital Fund (UHF) and their partners in the Population Health Improvement Program (PHIP) today released PHIP Small Practice Project, a report which focuses on the challenges small, independent primary care practices face in New York City.
Health Department Launches "What's in Your Ashtray?" Campaign, Reminding New Yorkers That Cigarettes Are Now $13 Per Pack
June 12, 2018
The Health Department today launched a new media campaign encouraging New Yorkers to quit smoking. The campaign emphasizes the cost of cigarettes, which could add up to the equivalent of two months of groceries, family cell phone bills for a year, or a vacation.
Dr. Jane Bedell Receives 2018 Sloan Award, the "Nobel Prize of City Government"
June 7, 2018
The Health Department today recognized Dr. Jane Bedell, Assistant Commissioner and Medical Director of the Center for Health Equity’s Bronx Neighborhood Health Action Center, for receiving the Fund for the City of New York’s Sloan Public Service Award. The award is given annually to six outstanding civil servants whose work performance and commitment to public service has been deemed extraordinary.
Board of Health Amends Health Code Requiring Epinephrine Auto-Injectors at City-Regulated Child Care Sites
June 5, 2018
The Board of Health today approved new amendments to the Health Code, including a requirement that the nearly 3,000 City-regulated child care sites maintain two epinephrine auto-injectors on location.
Mayor de Blasio, Speaker Johnson Announce Landmark Proposal to Make Birth Certificates More Inclusive to All Gender Identities
June 4, 2018
Mayor Bill de Blasio and City Council Speaker Corey Johnson today announced a landmark proposal to make birth certificates more inclusive to all gender identities. New York City birth certificates will include male, female and a new, third category of “X” to reflect a non-binary gender identity.
Health Department Launches Media Campaign Targeting Chinese Male Smokers
June 4, 2018
The Health Department today launched a media campaign to encourage Chinese men to quit smoking. In New York City, nearly a quarter of Asian men smoke cigarettes, the highest of all race and ethnic groups (23 percent, versus 18 percent of Whites, 17 percent of Latinos, and 14 percent of Blacks), and lung cancer deaths among Chinese men increased by 70 percent in the past 15 years.
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Health Department Announces Minimum Cigarette Pack Price Increases Today to $13, the Highest Price in the Nation
June 1, 2018
The Health Department announced that, starting today, New York City will raise the base price for a pack of cigarettes to $13 (PDF) — the highest pack price in the nation. Tobacco continues to be a leading contributor to preventable, premature death in New York City, killing an estimated 12,000 people annually.
How Old Is Your Heart? Health Department Launches Online Tool for New Yorkers to Calculate Their “Heart Age”
May 31, 2018
The Health Department today launched the NYC Heart Age Calculator, an online tool to help New Yorkers determine their risk for heart disease and stroke. The Heart Age Calculator reports risk by giving the user their heart age compared to their actual age.
As Summer Nears, the Health Department Urges New Yorkers to Protect Themselves from Mosquito- and Tick-Borne Illnesses
May 30, 2018
As summer nears, the Health Department reminds New Yorkers to protect themselves from mosquito- and tick-borne illnesses. Last year, there were 21 cases of West Nile virus, a mosquito-borne illness, in the city, and two deaths were attributed to the disease.
Health Department Reminds New Yorkers to Use "Know Before You Go," A Free Text Service for Updates About Public Beaches
May 25, 2018
This Memorial Day weekend, the Health Department reminds beachgoers to sign up for “Know Before You Go,” a free text service in English and Spanish that informs New Yorkers if public beaches are open or closed due to water quality issues. New Yorkers can text “BEACH” or “PLAYA” to 877877 to get the status of any of the City’s eight public beaches.
Health Department Pilots Awareness Campaign in Lower East Side Bars and Nightclubs on Risk of Fentanyl in Cocaine Supply
May 23, 2018
The Health Department today launched a campaign informing New Yorkers that fentanyl, an opioid 30 to 50 times more potent than heroin, is in the cocaine supply. People who use cocaine occasionally may be at risk of an opioid overdose.
Health Department Reports Cluster of K2-related Emergency Department Visits, Warns New Yorkers Not to Use This Synthetic Drug
May 22, 2018
The Health Department today reminded New Yorkers not to use synthetic cannabinoids — commonly referred to as “K2” or “synthetic marijuana” — after a significant increase in emergency department visits. Between May 19 and 21, the Health Department detected 84 emergency department visits related to K2.
As Historic Hookah Legislation Goes Into Effect This Year, Health Department Launches First-Ever Awareness Campaign On the Dangers of Smoking Hookah
May 21, 2018
The Health Department today announced the launch of its first-ever media campaign educating New Yorkers on the risks of smoking hookah. Just one hour of smoking hookah can expose someone to as much carbon monoxide and tar as smoking 10 cigarettes.
Health Department Launches “¡Listos!”, First-Ever Campaign Promoting Hiv Prevention Medication To Latinos
May 16, 2018
The Health Department, in partnership with the Latino Commission on AIDS (LCOA), launched “¡Listos!”, a sex-positive marketing campaign that encourages Latinos to consider using pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) as part of their sexual health plan.
Health Department Launches New NYC Well Awareness Campaign
May 14, 2018
The Health Department today launched a new campaign to encourage New Yorkers to contact NYC Well for mental health support. NYC Well counselors and peer support specialists provide crisis counseling and information and referral to ongoing services, regardless of immigration status or insurance coverage.
Health Department Releases Data on Female Suicide from 2006 to 2015
May 11, 2018
The Health Department today released new data on female suicide in New York City. From 2006 to 2015, the rate of female suicide increased on average by 4 percent annually in New York City, but it remained lower than the national rate.
Health Department Urges Health Care Providers to Regulary Screen Men Who Have Sex With Men for Rectal Gonorrhea and Chlamydia
May 11, 2018
The Health Department today released a new Vital Signs report about rectal STIs and the risk for later HIV infection among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM). According to the report, 1 in 15 (7 percent) of HIV-negative MSM who were diagnosed with rectal gonorrhea or rectal chlamydia, or both, at the Health Department’s Sexual Health Clinics were diagnosed with HIV within one year of their diagnosis.
Health Department Releases Data on Blood Lead Levels in Children Showing a 13 Percent Decline from 2016 to 2017
May 10, 2018
The Health Department today released preliminary data on lead poisoning in children, showing a 13 percent decrease from 2016 to 2017 in the number of children under age 6 with blood lead levels at or above the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reference level of 5mcg/dL. This decline builds on New York City’s significant progress in reducing childhood lead poisoning.
City to Enforce New, Expanded Calorie Labeling Rule
May 7, 2018
Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett announced that the City will begin enforcing updated calorie labeling rules today. The new requirements are aligned with the FDA’s calorie labeling ruling which also went into effect after years of delay.
Health Department’s Center for Health Equity Hosts “Not62: Building Health Equity in the Bronx
April 26, 2018
The Health Department’s Center for Health Equity today is hosting #Not62: Building Health Equity in the Bronx, a summit for City agencies, community leaders and Bronx organizations to discuss efforts to continue improving the health of Bronx residents.
Health Department and Fire Department Conduct First Ever Newborn Emergency Evacuation Exercise at Staten Island University Hospital
April 26, 2018
The Health and Fire Departments today conducted the City’s first-ever newborn emergency evacuation exercise at Staten Island University Hospital.
Director of Animal Care Centers of NYC Honored With Prestigious 2018 Maddie Hero Award For Animal Welfare “Superheroes”
April 24, 2018
Risa Weinstock, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Animal Care Centers (ACC) of NYC, was honored today with the Maddie Hero Award for her leadership in improving the welfare of New York City animals and her commitmjavascript:iw_wizard_doNext()ent to promoting life-saving actions.
Health Department Expands NYC Mural Arts Project with Three New Mental Health Murals
April 23, 2018
The Health Department today announced an expansion of the NYC Mural Arts Project, which will create three new murals about mental health in Morrisania and Mount Hope, the Bronx and Crown Heights, Brooklyn. The mural designs were developed by local artists, people with mental health conditions, and peer specialists — people who have lived experience with mental illness and are trained to support others with mental health conditions.
Health Department Announces Record Low Infant Mortality Rate, but Racial and Ethnic Disparities Persist
April 20, 2018
The Health Department today released the 2016 Infant Mortality Summary of Vital Statistics, which found that infant mortality has dropped to a historic low in New York City, though disparities between race and ethnic groups persist. The report provides an overview of deaths among infants younger than 12 months.
New York City's Air is Cleaner Than It Has Ever Been Since Monitoring Began
April 19, 2018
In recognition of Earth Day on Sunday, the Mayor announced the release of DOHMH’s latest New York City Community Air Survey (NYCCAS) results, which found continued improvements in air quality. The report highlights significant progress toward the Mayor’s OneNYC goal of achieving the cleanest air of any large U.S. city by 2030.
As Weather Gets Warmer, Health Department, Department of Housing Preservation and Development Urge New Yorkers to Protect Children by Installing Window Guards
April 13, 2018
As the weather gets warmer, and New Yorkers open their windows more, the Health Department and the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) remind New Yorkers that properly installed window guards prevent children from falling out of open windows. Last year there were 12 falls from windows among New York City children 10 years of age or younger.
Health Department Releases First Comprehensive Report on Depression Among Adults in New York City
April 6, 2018
The Health Department today released its first comprehensive data brief on depression among New York City adults. Approximately 548,000 adults (9 percent) in New York City experienced depression in 2016, according to a survey started shortly after ThriveNYC was launched in late 2015.
Health department warns New Yorkers about skin-lightening creams and medicated soaps that contain dangerous levels of mercury
April 6, 2018
The Health Department today warned New York City residents about 10 skin-lightening creams from Pakistan and two medicated soaps from Spain with elevated levels of mercury. These products can contain up to 14,000 times the allowable limit for mercury in cosmetics.
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As Part of Coastal Storm Simulation, Health Department Conducts Simultaneous Emergency Exercise in 55 Hospitals
April 4, 2018
As part of the Health Department’s ongoing commitment to preparing acute care hospitals across the city for a major coastal storm akin to Hurricane Sandy, the agency today conducted an emergency exercise at 55 hospitals. In the case of a real emergency, hospitals are generally given 72 hours’ notice for an evacuation.
Health Department Releases First Report On Health Disparities among Asian New Yorkers
March 29, 2018
The Health Department today released an Epi Data Brief examining, for the first time, health disparities among Asian New Yorkers. Approximately 1.2 million people who identify as Asian live in New York City; the population has increased by 53 percent since 2000.
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Health Department Collaborates With Chain, Independent Pharmacies to Increase Access to Free Blood Pressure Checks
March 28, 2018
As part of an ongoing effort to reduce rates of high blood pressure among New Yorkers, the Health Department today announced a collaboration with New York City chain and independent pharmacies to promote access to free blood pressure checks across the city.
Health Department Releases New Tuberculosis Data Showing 10 Percent Increase in Cases in 2017
March 26, 2018
In recognition of World Tuberculosis Day, the agency today released a new report on tuberculosis (TB) cases in New York City in 2017. The new report indicates that TB cases have increased 10 percent from the previous year, with 613 cases in 2017, up from 556 in 2016.
Health Department's Community Health Worker Program Leads to Health Improvements Among Harlem Residents
March 21, 2018
The Health Department’s Center for Health Equity today announced that the Harlem Health Advocacy Partners (HHAP) program has improved health outcomes for Harlem residents. HHAP, a community health worker program launched in 2015, connects people living in five NYCHA developments in East and Central Harlem to neighborhood resources that can help them manage their current health conditions, enroll and save on health insurance, and get involved with community organizing.
Chelsea Sexual Health Clinic Reopens After an Extensive Expansion and Modernization of Its Historic Building
March 15, 2018
The Health Department announced the official reopening of the Chelsea Sexual Health Clinic, 303 Ninth Avenue, after a multi-year renovation to modernize its historic 1930s building.
Health Department Launches First-Ever Naloxone Detailing Campaign to Expand Distribution to More Independent Pharmacies
March 15, 2018
The Health Department announced the launch of its first naloxone detailing campaign to expand distribution of the medication in independent pharmacies.
Health Department Launches City’s First-Ever Campaign Promoting HIV Prevention Medication among Women
March 6, 2018
The Health Department launched “Living Sure,” a new sexual health marketing campaign that encourages women, including cisgender and transgender women, to consider pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) as part of their sexual health plan.
As Part of HealingNYC, Health Department Expands Opioid Overdose Program “Relay” To St. Barnabas Hospital in the Bronx
February 27, 2018
As part of HealingNYC, the Health Department announced the expansion of the Relay program to St. Barnabas Hospital in the Bronx, the fifth site since its launch in June of 2017. Relay focuses on people who survived an opioid overdose and are at high risk for a future fatal overdose.
Health Department to Collaborate with Walgreens to Offer Flu Shot Vouchers for Uninsured and Underinsured New Yorkers, as City Continues to See Elevated Influenza Activity
February 26, 2018
The Health Department today is announcing a collaboration with Walgreens to offer 1,000 vouchers for flu shots at 11 Walgreens and Duane Reade pharmacies located in areas with high rates of people without health insurance and low flu vaccination rates — an initiative made possible by the Mayor’s Office of Strategic Partnerships.
Health Department Receives $1.8 Million Grant to Reduce Disparities in Maternal Health and to Support Improvements in Maternal Care Across the City
February 23, 2018
The Health Department and the Fund for Public Health in New York City today announced a $1.8 million grant from Merck for Mothers to further bolster the City’s efforts to reduce persistent racial and ethnic disparities in maternal health. The funding will ensure hospitals are including severe maternal morbidity (SMM, or life threatening complications during, or after, childbirth) in their performance review, which will help the Department increase surveillance of these complications.
As Part of HealingNYC, Health Department's Tremont Neighborhood Health Action Center Begins Offering Naloxone Trainings
February 21, 2018
As part of HealingNYC, the Health Department and its Center for Health Equity today announced that the Tremont Neighborhood Health Action Center will offer free naloxone trainings and distribution to prevent fatal opioid overdoses. The Action Center was recently registered in the New York State Health Department’s Opioid Overdose Prevention Program.
Health Department Launches New Anti-Smoking Media Campaign Featuring Commissioner Bassett and Her Quit Smoking “Number”
February 20, 2018
The Health Department launched a new media campaign, “Your Number,” featuring Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett, who shares the number of tries it took her to stop smoking. The campaign encourages New Yorkers to quit smoking, regardless of the number of times they have already tried to stop.
Health Department Warns New Yorkers About Unsolicited Calls From Individuals Claiming to Be From the National Poison Help Hotline
February 15, 2018
The Health Department today warned New Yorkers about unsolicited calls from individuals claiming to be from the National Poison Help Hotline (800-222-1222). These calls, which have targeted individuals and health care providers nationwide, are not legitimate calls from Poison Control Centers.
In Recognition Of National Condom Awareness Day, Health Department Launches “ARTCondomNYC”
February 14, 2018
In recognition of National Condom Awareness Day, the Health Department today launched ARTCondomNYC, a series of four, limited-edition NYC Condom wrappers designed by contemporary artists.
Departments of Health and Consumer Affairs Remind New Yorkers: Fever, Headache, Cough, Body Aches… Use Your Sick Leave, and Stay Home If You Have the Flu
February 6, 2018
As influenza continues to spread across New York City, Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett, and Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) Commissioner Lorelei Salas reminded New Yorkers that they can limit the spread of influenza by seeking care from a medical professional and staying home from work if they are sick.
Health Department Releases New Data Showing More Than 40 Percent of New Yorkers Report Being Exposed To Secondhand Smoke At Home
February 5, 2018
The Health Department today released a new Vital Signs report on secondhand smoke exposure and smoke-free housing policies in New York City. Secondhand smoke exposure is the involuntary exposure to smoke from a burning cigarette or from another person exhaling smoke from a cigarette.
Health Department’s Bronx Neighborhood Health Action Center Hosts “Undesign the Redline” Exhibit
January 30, 2018
The Health Department's Center for Health Equity, in partnership with social impact studio Designing the WE, today opened Undesign the Redline, an interactive exhibit about redlining in New York City.
Health Department Expands Mental Health First Aid; Launches "Choose the Best Words" Awareness Campaign
January 30, 2018
As part of ThriveNYC, and after a successful introduction, the Health Department today announced an additional $5 million annual investment through 2020 to the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) program for 39 full-time trainers, 19 outreach coordinators, training materials and public awareness campaigns. Nearly 50,000 New Yorkers have participated in this program since its launch in December 2015, including nearly 20,000 of the City’s frontline staff who interact with the public.
De Blasio Administration Announces Location of Bronx Animal Shelter and Upgrades to Brooklyn Shelter
January 23, 2018
The de Blasio administration today announced the location of the City’s new Bronx Animal Shelter. Projected to open in 2024, the 47,000-square-foot Bronx shelter will be located in the East Bronx, and have space for 70 dogs, 140 cats, 30 rabbits and 20 animals from other species.
Health Department Launches "Help Me Quit" App to Help New Yorkers Quit Smoking
January 18, 2018
The Health Department today launched the NYC HelpMeQuit app, a free tool to help New Yorkers quit smoking. Developed with input from smokers trying to quit, HelpMeQuit includes tips to stop cravings; social support from other people using HelpMeQuit and Facebook friends; connection to existing smoking cessation resources (such as the New York State Smokers Quitline and a map of nearby clinics); and in-app games to distract from smoking.
New Health Department Data Find Link between Lack of Sleep and Mental Health Problems among Children and Teenagers
January 17, 2018
The Health Department today released new data on lack of sleep among New York City school children and public high school students. On an average school night, 75 percent of high school students reported getting fewer than eight hours of sleep, and 11 percent of school children (ages 6 to 12 years) got inadequate sleep (less than nine hours).
Health Department Reminds New Yorkers to Get Their Flu Shot; Influenza Activity Usually Peaks Between January and March
January 12, 2018
The Health Department today reminded all New Yorkers to get their annual flu shot so they are protected against the influenza virus and its severe symptoms and complications. Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory viral illness that can cause significant illness and death.
Health Department Identifies 10 Outbreaks Of Foodborne Illness Using Yelp Reviews Since 2012
January 10, 2018
The Health Department today announced that since 2012, 10 outbreaks of foodborne illness were identified solely through a computer system jointly created with Columbia University’s Department of Computer Science.