ICYMI! Commissioner #DrJamesMcDonald joined Spectrum News NY1 Wellness Wednesday host Shannan Ferry to discuss the Department’s Anti Vaping Campaign. The campaign is aimed at informing young people about the arms of vaping and offers resources to quit: dropthevape.org/
For 125 years, the Department has been protecting the health and safety of New Yorkers, including the health of the environment. Learn more about our work on this Earth Day: on.ny.gov/4dKSCFm
Every decision behind the wheel matters. When you see those orange cones, slow down, move over if possible and stay alert. Because in a work zone, one bad choice can change everything.
NYS is working to raise awareness about best practices for drivers and pedestrians to reduce crashes, injuries and fatalities. The ongoing safety campaign started with reminders to drivers to pay attention and avoid distractions. Learn more about ensuring pedestrian safety: on.ny.gov/4eq0I6m
New York health officials detected medetomidine in one in four opioid samples tested over 19 months as deaths linked to the animal sedative are climbing.
Immunization is one of the most important things you can do to protect your children. Talk to your baby’s pediatrician about staying on schedule. Learn more: on.ny.gov/4td7iC0
Commissioner McDonald: “Sexually transmitted infections are preventable and addressing them is in everyone’s best interests. Screening tests are painless and effective treatment is readily available.” Visit: on.ny.gov/4vGc6l6
In recognition of Black Maternal Health Week, DOH hosted a roundtable discussion addressing challenges and celebrating the strength of communities working to improve Black maternal health, such as midwife Trinisha Williams. Watch it here: youtu.be/U6zHDGA3gsE
During Black Maternal Health Week, Daysha Brown shared her birthing experience: “Being heard and comforted helps to ease the scariness and can intervene or prevent any complications.”
Our recent roundtable: youtu.be/U6zHDGA3gsE
Do your loved ones know what type of care you do or don’t want in case you are unable to express your wishes?
On National Healthcare Decisions Day, you are encouraged to ensure your decisions are documented through Advance Care Planning. Info: on.ny.gov/4tpN9bK
No mother should have to question whether her voice matters in the delivery room. During Black Maternal Health Week, we’re raising awareness, telling stories and advocating for care that listens, respects and protects Black mothers and birthing people.
Families can get up to $1000 per child with the Empire State Child Credit. There is no impact to WIC, SNAP or other benefits if you receive the credit. Check your eligibility: otda.ny.gov/ChildCredit
Commissioner McDonald: “Black Maternal Health Week is an important time to spotlight the challenges faced by Black mothers & birthing people & celebrate the strength of communities working to improve maternal health.” Learn about our 'Healthy Mothers. Strong Communities' campaign: on.ny.gov/41wtOcL
The Empire State Child Credit can help put more money in your pockets. There is no income requirement to receive the credit, and it won’t impact your benefits. If you receive WIC benefits, you may be eligible. Learn more: otda.ny.gov/ChildCredit
More than a dozen landmarks across New York will be lit in blue and green tonight in recognition of National Donate Life Blue & Green Day. Find the list of landmarks here: on.ny.gov/3OcRpfC
and join the Donate Life Registry here: donatelife.ny.gov
@GovKathyHochul is proposing a number of initiatives to protect public health. Commissioner Dr. James McDonald: “Thank you, Governor, for your leadership & commitment to highlighting the importance of public health which is about protecting & uplifting our communities.” on.ny.gov/3Qddxac
The Department is being recognized as one of the top workplaces in New York’s Capital Region! Explore opportunities to join our exceptional team of dedicated professionals: health.ny.gov/employment/
The NYS WIC (Women, Infants, Children) program supports families from pregnancy through early childhood. As we recognize Public Health Week, we celebrate how WIC helps families. Find a WIC provider: on.ny.gov/4e2fJex
What would you do with extra money? Eligible NY families may receive up to $1000 per child through the Empire State Child Credit by filing a NYS tax return. Check eligibility here: otda.ny.gov/ChildCredit
Celebrating 125 years with a look at the Women, Infants Children (WIC) program. More than 280,000 WIC families spent $543 million at 2,800 approved stores across NY in 2025. Participants can get coupons for fresh fruits & veggies from local farmers. Info: on.ny.gov/4bQOmmr
The NYS School Environmental Health Program (SEHP) works to ensure all schools are healthy schools. Info about the program: on.ny.gov/3OhH5Tt
In recognition of our 125th anniversary, we’re celebrating the people and skills behind public health. A strong public health system starts with a strong workforce. Clearer tools help staff grow, lead & respond when it matters post. Training program info: bit.ly/3PKNqHC
Check if you can receive up to $1,000 per child by filing a NY income tax return. Getting this money will not impact on your Medicaid, SNAP, Cash Assistance, SSI, or Housing Assistance benefits. Learn more about the Empire State Child Credit: otda.ny.gov/ChildCredit
Kudos to Dr. Kimberlee Musser and her team at the Bacterial Diseases lab of the renowned NYS Wadsworth Center! We’re celebrating our 125th anniversary by recognizing the lab’s cutting edge work during National Public Health Week.
More than 65,000 pedestrians have been injured in motor vehicle crashes since 2020. The Department’s pedestrian safety campaign starts with a focus on distracted driving and continues with other best practices through the year. Visit: bit.ly/4t5tq11
🏀College basketball championship cardio coach: Make sure your fitness band is charged before watching the big game. If you’re cheering or yelling you can track your heart rate, and it can count as cardio for the day!
This National Public Health Week, DOH stands with the Northeast Public Health Collaborative in accelerating regional success by sharing best practices across state borders. Together, we are advancing regional readiness to foster thriving communities. #NEPHC
Protect your teen’s health. Vaccines are safe, effective and help prevent serious diseases like HPV, meningitis, and whooping cough. Make sure your child is up to date. Talk to your health care provider. Learn more: bit.ly/3Pqx46T
