Fulton County Public Health

Director of Public Health:   
Laurel Headwell, MS   
Assistant Director:   
Angela Stuart Palmer, MS

Supervising PHN:   
Kathleen King, BSN, RN
Fiscal Manager:   
Tammy Mickan

Office Hours:   
Monday - Friday:   
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Address:   
County Services Complex   
2714 State Highway 29   
Johnstown, NY 12095

Phone:   
(518) 736-5720   
Fax:   
(518) 762-1382

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Recall on multiple Baby Loungers.

Products: 
• Fasando-branded baby lounger
• Bearlala Baby Loungers
• XZV baby loungers

Recall Date: November 20, 2025

Hazard: The recalled baby loungers violate the mandatory standard for Infant Sleep Products. The sides are too low to contain an infant. The enclosed openings at the foot of the loungers are wider than allowed, posing fall and entrapment hazards to infants. In addition, the baby loungers do not have a stand, posing a fall hazard, if used on elevated surfaces. These violations create an unsafe sleeping environment and can cause death or serious injury to infants.

Consumer Action: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled baby loungers. Consumers should remove the foam and pads from the baby lounger’s cover and cut the cover, foam and pad in half. Do not sell or give away these hazardous baby loungers.

Report any incidents involving injury or product defect to CPSC at SaferProducts.gov.

For Bearlala Baby Lounger: email photos of the destroyed pieces to Recall-nuoxuann@outlook.com to obtain a full refund.

For more information: https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls

Fasando, Bearlala and XZV loungers


Recall Alert: Moderna Pack n Play

Moderna Pack N Play Mattress Recall.
Name of Product: Modera “Pack N Play” Play Yard Mattress; Organic Cotton Pack N Play Mattress Dual-Sided Portable Baby Crib Pad. The mattresses were sold in white, pink, blue, and gray, and have “Modera baby” printed on labels attached to the mattress. The mattresses are dual-sided, with one side labeled “infant” and the other side labeled “toddler.” The dimensions of the mattress are 38 inches long, 26 inches wide and 1.5 inches thick.
Recall Date: October 30, 2025
Hazard: The after-market play yard mattresses may not adequately fit certain play yards, which is in violation of the mandatory standard for crib mattresses, posing a deadly entrapment hazard. Babies have suffocated in gaps between an undersized mattress, or extra padding, and side walls of a product, especially when the infant’s face becomes trapped against the side and the mattress, preventing the infant from breathing.
Consumer Action: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled mattresses and contact Modera for a full refund. Consumers go to https://moderababy.com/recall to register for the recall and receive instructions on how to dispose of the recalled mattress
Sold At: Amazon from April 2024 through June 2025 for between $30 and $44 For more information:
cpsc.gov/Recalls/2026/Modera-Recalls-Modera-Pack-N-Play-Mattresses-Due-to-Risk-of-Serious-Injury-or-Death-from-Entrapment-Violates-Mandatory-Standard-for-Crib-Mattresses

Mattress top
Mattress tags - ALL NEW MATERIAL CONSISTING OF POLYURETHANE FOAM 100% REG.NO. 26840(CN) Certification is made by the manufacturer that the materials in this article are described in accordance with the law. Imported by Modero Finished size: 38" x 26" x 1.5" Cover: Organic cotton. Filling: Polyurethane. MADE IN CHINA


The Health Risks of Vaping

Vaping puts health at risk. Nicotine in e-cigarettes is highly addictive and especially harmful for youth. Let’s work together in Fulton County to prevent vaping and support healthier choices. https://teen.smokefree.gov/quit-vaping

THE RISKS OF VAPING - VAPING CAN EXPOSE YOU TO DANGEROUS CHEMICALS AND CAN LEAD TO NICOTINE ADDICTION. Vapes contain a battery and e-liquid. The battery heats the liquid and produces an aerosol or vapor that you inhale. Many e-liquids contain propylene glycol, glycerol, flavorings, and nicotine - the same highly addictive drug found in cigarettes. Some vapes contain as much nicotine as a whole pack of cigarettes. Nicotine addiction causes you to crave nicotine and makes it hard to stop vaping. Teens are more vulnerable than adults to addiction because their brains are still developing. Exposure to nicotine as a teen can cause short-term and long-term effects on attention, learning, and memory that promote addiction to nicotine. Vape aerosol can expose you to harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, acrolein, and acetaldehyde, as well as harmful metal particles like nickel and aluminum. ALUMY To learn more about the dangers of vaping, visit www.fda.gov/youthvapingresources or scan the QR code. STAY VAPE-FREE. Avoid nicotine addiction. If you already vape, you can quit. It may take several tries, but you can do it. If you need help, visit teen.smokefree.gov/quit-vaping.


Happy Thanksgiving

Fulton County Public Health will be closed Thursday and Friday, November 27 and 28, in observance of Thanksgiving. We hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday.

Happy Thanksgiving. FCPH will reopen on December 1.


Car Seat Program at Fulton County Public Health

Do you need a new car seat for your child? Are you pregnant and need a car seat for your newborn?
Fulton County Public Health is proud to offer a Free Car Seat Program for Fulton County Residents. Qualifying individuals can receive a free infant seat, convertible seat, and/or booster seat.
Call Fulton County Public Health at 518-736-5720 for more information and to make an appointment.

Ensure your child is riding in their car seat correctly and safely!


Prevent the Spread of Respiratory Viruses

Recommendations on when to stay home and when to go back to normal activities after respiratory illnesses including COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in non-healthcare settings.

cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/ 
youtu.be/R-qZOuRksI4

Respiratory Virus Guidance Snapshot. CORE STRATEGIES: Immunizations,Hygiene Steps for Cleaner Air. Additional Prevention Strategies: Makss, Distancing, Tests. Layering prevention strategies can be especially helpful when: Respiratory viruses are causing a lot of illness in your community. You or those around you have risk factors for severe illness. You or those around you were recently exposed, are sick, or are recovering. *Stay home and away from others until your symptoms are getting better AND you are fever-free (without meds) for 24 hrs.* Then take added precaution for the next 5 days.


Perinatal Depression

Having a baby can be one of the biggest and happiest events in a person's life. Life with a new baby can be exciting and rewarding, but it can also be stressful at times. Pregnant women and new mothers may struggle with perinatal depression. Many feel tearful, stressed and exhausted. If these feelings get worse or last for several weeks, reach out for support.

YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Talk with someone today!
  •   Call of text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Text 'Got5’ to 741741 Crisis Text Line
1-855-631-0001 Postpartum Resource Center of NY
For more information: https://postpartumny.org/


PTECH Prospective Student Nights

Students and their families are invited to learn about the HFM Pathways in Technology Early College High School program (PTECH). PTECH’s innovative program offers real-world experiences and focuses on collaborative, hands-on learning in a space where students take the lead role in their learning. Best of all - students earn a 2-year college degree AT NO COST to their families.

Any student interested in applying to PTECH for the 2026-27 school year is encouraged to attend one of our Prospective Student Nights and hear more about what makes PTECH so special.

Prospective Student Nights will be held on:
Wednesday, November 5 • 6:00-7:30pm
Wednesday, November 19 • 6:00-7:30pm
Thursday, December 11 • 6:00-7:30pm
Tuesday, January 6 • 6:00-7:30pm
Wednesday, January 14 • 6:00-7:30pm

PTECH applications for the 2026-27 school year are due January 30, 2026. Information on applying can be found at hfmboces.org/ptech-applynow/

PTECH Prospective Student Nights


Bats and Rabies Safety

While bats are beneficial insect eaters during the summer, they can carry the fatal rabies virus. Summer and fall are the busiest months for bat exposures, and the best time to ensure you, your family and pets are protected from rabies. The best rabies prevention pet vaccination, including indoor pets. It’s important to: • never touch a bat with your bare hands • capture the bat without touching it, and • report any known or suspected contact to Fulton County Public Health, 518-736-5720.

For more information on bats and rabies prevention, watch:
spectrumlocalnews.com/.../bats-calls-and-rabies-safety


Building Resilience

Resiliency is the ability to deal with and overcome life’s difficult situations. Building resiliency improves your mental health and strengthens your defenses when life gets tough.

Skills to build resiliency include:
• Focusing on what you can control
• Making goals for yourself
• Finding a purpose
• Leaning on others for support
• Treating mistakes as a learning tool
• Noticing and taking time to feel emotions
• Nurturing spirituality and mindfulness

Visit bewell.ny.gov/supporting-your-resilience for more tips to support your mental health.

Building Resilience


Autism Awareness Visor Card Program

The New York State Police have developed the Autism Awareness Visor Card program in effort to assist in communication and reduce confusion and fear during police interactions. Each patrol vehicle will be equipped with a card to use as needed. Copies are also available to the public to be downloaded and printed here: https://troopers.ny.gov/.../autism-card-v2.pdf.

Visit https://troopers.ny.gov/news/new-york-state-police-introduce-autism-awareness-visor-card-program for full information.


Holiday Food Safety Tips During Pregnancy

During the holidays everyone enjoys feasting on classic food favorites, and trying new recipes. Not all foods are safe to eat during pregnancy. Some food bacteria and germs pose a greater health risk for pregnant women and unborn baby’s. It’s important to know the difference between what is safe to eat and what could be harmful to you and your baby.

The following article provides information on which holiday foods and drinks to avoid, as well as some tasty alternatives: whattoexpect.com/.../holiday-foods-to-avoid-during-pregnancy

This safe food choices during pregnancy chart, makes choosing healthy safe foods easier for mothers-to-be: cdc.gov/.../pregnant-people.html

Holiday Food Safety Tips • Avoid raw, unpasteurized milk and eggs, like homemade eggnog and soft cheeses • Do not eat raw seafood, like sushi • Watch for and avoid alcohol in dishes and drinks • Eat fully cooked meats only: do not eat cured meats, like salami and pepperoni


Project Lifesaver

Did you know Project Lifesaver is available in Fulton County?

Fulton County Sheriff’s Department’s Project Lifesaver is a search and rescue program and it’s purpose is to quickly locate an enrolled individual by tracking a small personal transmitter that emits a signal.

The program is intended for children with developmental delays or diagnosed conditions such as Down Syndrome or Autism who are prone to escaping, as well as for Alzheimer’s patients.

Project Lifesaver is free of charge to Fulton County residents but requires the transmitter battery changed every 60 days. Call Fulton County Sheriff’s Department at 518-736-2100 for more information.

Project Lifesaver - a white, watch-sized transmitter attached to a person's wrist


Recall of Canned Fruit Products

There are multiple recalls on canned fruit products sold at Walmart and Wegmans Food Market stores, per U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reports. This is due to the products containing high levels of lead. The following canned fruits are being recalled, including their UPC, lot codes and best-by dates printed on the 15-ounce cans:
Product UPC Lot Code Best-By Date
Great Value Pear Halves in Pear Juice from Concentrate 077890365410 6PJ 09 C2425 SEP 01 2027
Wegmans Fruit Cocktail in 100% Juice with Added Ingredients 077890461525 6FCB 02 C2206 SEP 01 2027
Wegmans Halved Pears in Pear Juice from Concentrate 077890747490 6PJ 09 C2295 SEP 01 2027
Wegmans Organic Pears Sliced in Organic Pear Juice from Concentrate 077890365410 6OPSJ 04 C2893 SEP 01 2027

Approximately 62,340 canned products are impacted by this recall. They were sold at Walmart and Wegmans locations the following states: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Missouri, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming. Check your pantry, and if you have any of the affected fruit on hand, dispose of it or return to your place of purchase for a potential refund. This collection of recalls have been classified as Class II, meaning the products may lead to minor, temporary health problems.5 But chronic lead exposure can have serious effects on the body. Elevated levels of lead are particularly harmful to young children.
For questions about these recalls, contact the FDA at 1-888-INFO-FDA (1-888-463-6332).
accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/ires/index.cfm?Product=215932
accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/ires/index.cfm?Product=215931
accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/ires/index.cfm?Product=215929
accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/ires/index.cfm?Product=216041
 


Blood Drive at Johnstown Public Library

Join the American Red Cross and Johnstown Public Library for a PAC-MAN–themed Blood Drive.

📅 Wednesday, Dec. 3 | 1–5 PM 📍 Johnstown Public Library Concourse

Donate and score a pair of exclusive Red Cross x PAC-MAN socks. Register online to make your appointment here: redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=JohnstownLibrary

BLOOD DRIVE Wednesday, Dec. 3rd 1:00 to 5:00 Johnstown Public Library Concourse register online. (Decorated with Pac Man and ghosts) What's scarier than seeing Ghosts like Blinky, Pinky, Inky and Clyde? A blood shortage! Will you be our Player One and step up to help? The American Red Cross is teaming up with PAC-MAN to celebrate the 45th anniversary of the legendary game: Score an exclusive pair of Red Cross x PAC-MAN socks For an appointment, please stop at the desk or register online.


Public Health Thank You Day

The Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) highlights and celebrates public health’s vital role ahead of Public Health Thank You Day on Monday, November 24.

ASTHO’s top five reasons to be thankful for public health include:
1. Preventing illness before it reaches you. 
2. Keeping your food and water safe
3. Responding quickly during emergencies
4. Protecting the air, water, and environment around you
5. Using data and science to help guide decision-makers

astho.org/.../five-reasons-to-be-thankful-for-public-health-leaders/
#PHTYD #PublicHealthHeroes #publichealthworkforce


Medicare Open Enrollment

It’s easy to compare Medicare coverage options, shop for plans, and feel confident in your choice. Open enrollment begins on October 15, 2025.

Get started at medicare.gov/plan-compare.

Medicare Open Enrollment. Find the right mix at medicare.gov/plan-compare


Safe Holiday Meals

Keep raw meat—like turkey—separate from other foods. That means using separate cooking utensils, too. The juices from raw meat may contain bacteria that make people sick. health.ny.gov/.../consumer_guidance.htm

Safe Holiday Meals


Get Help Enrolling in Health Insurance

Are you in need of health insurance? There are people who can help. The organizations below offer free specialists to assist you with enrolling in health insurance coverage.

Adirondack Health Institute’s EASE program: visit ahihealth.org/ease/ or call 1-866-872-3740.

Nathan Littauer Hospital Insurance Assistance: visit nlh.org/faqs/financial-assistance or call 518-775-4074 or 518-775-4092.

YOUR HEALTH IS A PRIORITY.
Get your health insurance today!


Protect Infants from RSV

RSV (Respiratory syncytial virus) is the leading cause of infant hospitalization in the U.S. As a parent or care giver it’s important you know the symptoms and seek medical attention quickly.
RSV symptoms in infants and young children may include: 
  â€˘ Runny nose
  â€˘ Irritability
  â€˘ Eating or drinking less
  â€˘ Cough, which may progress to wheezing or difficulty breathing
  â€˘ Apnea (pauses in breathing for more than 10 seconds)

There are 2 ways to protect your infant from RSV. Most infants only need one, not both.
  1. RSV vaccine given during pregnancy, between 32-36 weeks pregnant and usually given seasonally from September – January.
  2. RSV antibody recommended for infants younger than 8 months old and usually given seasonally from October – March.

For more information visit:
  â€˘ cdc.gov/rsv/infants-young-children
  â€˘ healthychildren.org/.../RSV-When-Its-More-Than-Just-a-Cold
  â€˘ Youtube: RSV Prevention Breakthrough: Protect Your Baby with Nirsevimab

Condenses information found on various subpages of  cdc.gov/rsv about when babies should get Immunizations.


Recall of Eagle Spice Ground Ginger

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a notice that Eagle Spice and Extract Co., Inc. has recalled Eagle Spice Ground Ginger, 16-ounce bottles with lot code 24907EGGG having a “Best Used By” date of January 27, 2028 due to the potential for toxic lead contamination. It is reported the product was distributed in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Pennsylvania and may have been sold via online retailers and other outlets._The FDA advises consumers to immediately discard this product and not to consume it. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/ires/?Event=97798

Eagle Spice Ground GingerChildhood lead poisoning


Lead-free for a Bright Future

Childhood lead poisoning cannot be seen and can go undiagnosed if a child does not have their blood levels of lead tested. Click the link below to watch a video from the CDC on the importance of childhood blood lead testing. youtube.com/watch?v=MPePSbzV_kg

Lead-free for a Bright Future: Get Tested Today! Why should I test my child for lead? Children younger than 6 years are more likely to be exposed due to their hand-to-mouth behavior. Many children ingest lead dust by putting objects such as toys and dirt in their mouths. Use soap and water to wash children's hands and toys often, especially before they eat and sleep. How do I get tested? Lead exposure can cause learning and developmental delays, behavioral problems, and serious health issues. Visit your doctor's office or local clinic and ask for a blood lead test. Early detection helps protect your child's health.


Safe Gun Storage

Responsible gun ownership is also about safe storage. Safe gun storage means unloaded and locked in a secure place such as a gun safe or lock box. The key or lock combination should only be accessible to authorized users. gunsafety.ny.gov

Gun Violence Prevention Store and lock ammunition separately from firearms. Store firearms unloaded and locked. health.ny.gov/GunViolencePrevention


Rabies and Wild Animals

Wild animals belong in nature, not in your hands!

  • Don’t touch wild or stray animals. Some wild animals may be rabid. It is best to avoid wild animals and teach children not to touch wild animals.
  • Avoid touching stray animals. A stray cat may seem friendly, but can become scared and bite.
  • If there is a stray animal in your neighborhood, contact your local animal control authority.
  • Seek medical care and treatment for all animal bites.

Put your family first and protect yourself from rabies!
To learn more go to: health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/zoonoses/rabies/



Rabies Prevention.


Mental Health is Health

Mental health is health. Supporting your wellness helps you feel better and live a healthier life. Visit bewell.ny.gov for tips on managing stress, finding your calm, supporting resilience, and healing trauma.

Be Well.


ByHeart Inc Infant Formula Recall

Name of Product: ByHeart Inc, Whole Nutrition Infant Formula, all lot numbers

24 oz cans; UPC: 85004496800
0.6 oz single serve “Anywhere Pack” sticks; UPC: 85004496802

Recall Date: November 8th, 2025: updated November 11th, 2025

Hazard: The FDA and CDC, in collaboration with California Department of Public Health (CDPH), Infant Botulism Treatment and Prevention Program (IBTPP), and state and local partners, are investigating a multistate outbreak of 15 infant botulism illnesses from 12 states: Arizona, California, Illinois, Kentucky, Minnesota, North Carolina, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Washington. Laboratory confirmation for some cases is ongoing. There are no deaths reported at this time. All 15 cases included in this outbreak are reported to have consumed ByHeart- brand powdered infant formula. This testing is underway, and results are not yet available but expected in the coming weeks. 

Recommendation:
   Parents and Caregivers should NOT USE the recalled ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula. They should:
      Take a photo or record the information on the bottom of the package.
      Keep the container in the safe spot and be sure to label that product as DO NOT USE.
      If the child develops symptoms, the product might be needed to testing. If the child does not develop symptoms after 30 days, they should throw the container out.

   Wash items and surfaces that may have touched the recalled formula using hot soapy water or a dishwasher.
   Seek immediate medical care if your infant has consumed ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula and has any of these symptoms:
      Poor feeding, difficulty sucking and swallowing
      Constipation
      Loss of head control
      Generalized weakness, i.e. weak cry, difficulty breathing, sluggish movement
      Decreased facial expression, i.e. droopy eyelids
   Symptoms of infant botulism can take as long as several weeks to develop, so parents should remain vigilant if they used the recalled infant formula.

For more information:
   fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-infant-botulism-infant-formula-november-2025
   fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/byheart-broadens-voluntary-recall-while-investigation-continues

Use by Dec 1 2026


Rides for Recovery

đźš— Need a ride to support your recovery?
The Rides for Recovery program can help you get to recovery events, meetings, treatment, pharmacy visits, court appointments, and more — wherever you need to go as you grow in your recovery journey.
đź“… Call or text at least 48 hours in advance during business hours:
📞 518-705-4626
This service is provided by the Rob Constantine Recovery and Community Outreach Center youreinrecovery.com

Rob Constantine Recovery Community and Outreach Center RIDES FOR RECOVERY. RECOVERY JUST AHEAD. Together, we are stronger. You are not alone. Recovery is possible. WHAT CAN RIDES FOR RECOVERY DO FOR YOU? Peers can provide transportation to: Recovery events and meetings, Drug Court, MSR appointments, Inpatient treatment, Pharmacy OR any place that you need to visit as you grow your recovery capital. CALL OR TEXT 518-705-4626 at least 48 hours in advance during business hours:


Download the Fulton County Public Health Ap

Your health matters—and staying informed has never been easier! Download the Fulton County Public Health App to get updates, programs, and resources that help keep Fulton County strong and healthy.

apps.myocv.com/.../a34012095

Tap Into Better Health with Our App Get real-time, trustworthy health alerts Find our upcoming vaccine clinics. Discover tips to guide your health goals. Access local health services and resources Learn more about public health programs


Alliance for Positive Health

For almost 40 years, the Alliance for Positive Health (formerly the AIDS Council of Northeastern New York) has been a leader in fighting the epidemic of HIV/AIDS serving 15 counties in northeastern New York. As a leader in testing and care coordination services for those living with HIV, their responsibility is to extend that expertise to those impacted by sexually transmitted diseases, opioid addiction, and associated health and mental heatlh challenges. SERVING 15 COUNTIES OF NORTHEASTERN NEW YORK - ALBANY, CLINTON, COLUMBIA, ESSEX, FRANKLIN, FULTON, GREENE, HAMILTON, MONTGOMERY, RENSSELAER, SARATOGA, SCHENECTADY, SCHOHARIE, WARREN, AND WASHINGTON COUNTIES. allianceforpositivehealth.org

Get Tested. Free, confidential, non-judgmental


NYS Council on Children and Families Survey

The goal at the New York State Council on Children and Families (CCF) is simple: to help every child in New York get the best possible start. To do it, we need your voice. This short survey takes just a few minutes, but it can help us make a lasting impact on generations of parents and children.

 Your opinions and experiences can help us:
  â€˘ Understand what families really need to know.
  â€˘Spread the word about childhood development, milestones, and early screenings.
  â€˘Connect parents with trusted resources and support.

The survey is voluntary, anonymous, and confidential.
Take the survey here: EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES SURVEY
Please complete this survey by the end of the day on Tuesday, November 21 to make sure your voice is heard. If you have any questions about the survey, contact us at NYSB5@ccf.ny.gov.
Your feedback will help us support families just like yours across New York State. Thank you for helping us give every child the strong start they deserve!


Dolly's Imagination Library

Enroll your child in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and get a free book EVERY MONTH until your child’s 5th birthday! Find out more information at imaginationlibrary.com!

Dolly Parton's Imagination Library is dedicated to inspiring a love of reading by gifting free books to children from birth to five years old, through funding shared by Dolly Parton and local community partners in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and the Republic of Ireland.


Protect Your Children From Lead Exposure

Protect your children from lead exposure by knowing where common sources of contamination are found.

Learn more about where your children can be exposed to lead here: cdc.gov/lead-prevention/prevention/

LEAD POISONING PREVENTION - Protect Your Children from Lead. Common sources of lead are: Paint, Water and Soil. Get Tested: Children should be tested for lead whe they're 1 year old and again when they're 2 years old. If there's any risk of lead exposure, the tests are done yearly until a child is 6 years old.


Protect Your Newborn

Are you pregnant? Vaccines protect both mom and baby. Talk to your health care provider about recommended vaccines.

Learn more: cdc.gov/vaccines-pregnancy/

PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR NEWBORN. Vaccination during pregnancy builds antibodies that can help protect your baby. STAY UP TO DATE ON RECOMMENDED VACCINES: COVID-19 Influenza TDAP (Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) and RSV (Respiratory syncytial virus).


A Guide for First-Time Parents

Becoming a parent for the first time is very exciting but can also be stressful with worries and concerns about for caring for your child. For tips on topics such as holding your baby, diapering, bathing, feeding, and more, please click the included link.

A Guide for First-Time Parents


NYS Venison Donation Program

Feeding New York State venison donation program: It is easy to join us in the fight against hunger. The process is as simple as dropping your deer off at a registered meat processor. The venison from donated deer is processed and distributed to food pantries across the state. feedingnys.org/hunters/

Male deer with horns standing in tall grass


Be Antibiotics Aware

Antibiotics do not treat infections caused by viruses, including respiratory illnesses such as the common cold or a chest cold. Learn more bit.ly/4mAMTTS #BeAntibioticsAware 

Antibiotics DO NOT WORK against viruses that cause the common cold, most chest colds, flu, and COVID-19. Ask your healthcare professional about the best way to feel better while your body fights off the virus. For more information, visit www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use or call 1-800-CDC-INFO.


Free EPA Lead Trainings

New York State has a new Lead Rental Registry Law that is scheduled to go into effect November 3rd, 2025. Property owners, landlords, and contractors across New York State and in the Lead Rental Registry communities of concern must be EPA certified in Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP). The NYS Rental Registry law will address lead paint hazards in pre-1980 residential rental housing with 2 or more units in these communities of concern. Before the law goes into effect, property owners, landlords, and contractors should get EPA certified in Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP). EPA certification is federally mandated when projects disturb lead-based paint in a pre-1978 home or child-occupied facility.

See our attached November 2025 Lead Training Flyer or visit Cornell Cooperative Extension Albany County for a current schedule of free, local trainings to learn lead-safe work practices and help reduce childhood lead poisoning.
Register Here.

Free (monthly) EPA Lead Training, details in image are found at the included link.


Rabies and Stray Animals

Animal bites and scratches can happen anytime anywhere, often by strays or animals you don’t know.
Ensure your protection from the fatal rabies virus, by following these simple steps:
1. If it’s a domestic animal bite: get the owners name and phone number.
2. If the owner is not around or the animals a stray make a note of:
  a. what the animal looks like (a good description),
  b. the color or number of the house’s around you,
  c. the street name and direction the animal came from and ran away to.
3. Wash the wound(s) with soap and water.
4. Seek medical attention immediately, at a local urgent care or hospital ER.
5. Report the animal bite or scratch to:
Fulton County Public Health, 518-736-5720.

BITTEN BY A STRAY OR ANIMAL YOU DON'T KNOW? 1. Get the owners name and phone number. 2. If no owner or stray: • make note of the animals description. o where it came from or went to • your location: street name, house number and color, landmarks 3. Wash wounds with soap and water. 4. Seek medical attention immediately, at a urgent care or hospital ER. 5. Report all bites and scratches to: FULTON COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH 518-736-5720


Protect Yourself from Respiratory Viruses

Protect yourself and others from respiratory viruses this holiday season. Get this year’s flu and COVID vaccines, and the RSV vaccine if you are eligible. Talk to your healthcare provider to determine which vaccines are right for you.

This holiday season spread cheer, not sickness. Get vaccinated for flu, COVID and RSV.


Test Children for Lead at Age 1 and 2

Removing lead hazards from the environment before a child is exposed to lead is the most effective way to ensure that children do not experience harmful long-term effects of lead exposure. Click the link below to hear one family’s story on how their child became poisoned and how to tell what your child’s blood lead level is.

youtube.com/watch?v=MPePSbzV_kg

Test children for lead 1 and 2 years old Or if they have been exposed to lead in older paint, dirt or other sources.

 

 

Emergency Information

How you #StayInformed in an emergency isn’t carved in stone. Find several trusted sources of #emergency information & have multiple ways to receive alerts & warnings. Learn more at https://www.cdc.gov/prepyourhealth/planahead/stayinformed/index.htm #PrepYourHealth

To find Rehab Centers that provide alcohol, drug, and other substance abuse rehabilitation you can call 1-866-972-0589. To find a list of rehabs in each state, visit https://freerehabcenters.org/

A growing public health crisis is suicide. Freerehabcenters.org has put together resources for the prevention of suicide including crisis lines, veterans suicide resources, youth suicide resources, and other mental health and suicide prevention resources. Visit https://www.freerehabcenters.org/article/suicide-prevention-resources to learn more.

 

The Fulton County Public Health Department under the direction of the Fulton County Board of Supervisors and the New York State Department of Health, seeks to promote wellness, to protect from disease, to prevent injury/disability, to prepare for emerging illness/disease and to assist Fulton County residents in attaining and maintaining optimal health.      

Each person and/or their family will be educated in accessing health care and will be empowered to be responsible for the decisions regarding their health care needs. Many services offered by FCPH are provided free of charge; others have eligibility criteria and sliding fee scales are available for the uninsured.      

For immunization or car seat appointments call 518-736-5720 to schedule your visit.

 

How do I go about getting rabies vaccination for my pet?

Pet immunization clinics are held periodically throughout the year. A copy of the current Rabies Clinic Vaccination flyer can be accessed by visiting https://www.fultoncountyny.gov/rabies>.   

A nominal donation is requested. Rabies clinic dates are also advertised in local newspapers, on Facebook and posted in town halls. Clinic pre-registration is available by calling (518) 736-5720 three weeks prior to each clinic.

How do I reduce, prevent and eliminate lead in my home?

Please visit the New York State Department of Health's website at www.health.ny.gov/environmental/lead/ or the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) website at https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/.   

For specific questions, please contact our Lead Nurse here at Fulton County Public Health at (518) 736-5720. 

How do I qualify for the low-income car seat program?

You or your child need to have some type of public assistance (WIC benefits, Medicaid, food stamps) or be below WIC income guidelines (200% of poverty). Additionally, you need to have a valid reason for needing a car seat.   

You can sign up for an appointment by calling our office at (518) 736-5720 and asking to speak with our Child Passenger Safety Technician.

I am concerned about my child's development. Are there services available?

Early Intervention is for children with development delays from birth to age 3. Children are evaluated and if found eligible for the program may receive services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy or special education services (to name some).   

Children ages 3-5 are evaluated through their local school district Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) to determine eligibility and services. Both programs are voluntary. 

How do I get my immunization records?

Fulton County Public Health can provide copies of immunizations that were obtained in their office.   
If your immunizations were not done at Fulton County Public Health, immunization records can be obtained from doctors' offices and schools (K-12 or college) attended.

How do I treat head lice and what are the school/daycare rules? Also, how do you treat for bedbugs?

Please watch this YouTube video: "Head Lice to Dead Lice."

For bed bugs, please watch this YouTube video: "7 Things You Should Know About Bed Bugs."

Where can I learn more about cooling centers in NYS?

Visit the NYS Department of Health at https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/weather/cooling/about.htm

Where can I go to get more information on Cooling Assistance Benefits?

Visit the NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) site at https://otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/#cooling-assistance

Where can I go to get more information on HEAP Heating Assistance programs?

Visit the NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) site at https://otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/#regular-benefit

What is the Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program (HPNAP) and how do I learn more about it?

Visit the NYS Department of Health Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program site at https://www.health.ny.gov/prevention/nutrition/hpnap/

 

Public Health - CSHCN Fulton County Community Health Guide