Press Releases

Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr.: “Vaccinations are essential to the health of every resident in Oneida County. We must do all we can to stop preventable diseases from gaining a foothold in our community, so I am happy to see that New York State has taken the measure to protect the public by eliminating non-medical exemptions.
“As we have seen throughout the state and nation, the consequences of failing to immunize can be deadly. I urge all who are medically able to listen to our public health officials and be immunized so that we can stop senseless and unnecessary outbreaks from occurring.”
Oneida County Director of Health Phyllis D. Ellis, BSN, MS, F.A.C.H.E.: “New York State’s action to eliminate non-medical exemptions from vaccination will go a long way in protecting infants, children, adolescents and adults from preventable diseases, especially since New York is at the center of the current measles outbreak.

The Oneida County Health Department wants to hear your opinion on these and other health-related issues.
The Oneida County Health Department, Mohawk Valley Health System and Rome Memorial Hospital are conducting a health needs survey and is seeking a broad range of input from the community. All Oneida County residents are encouraged to take the brief survey by visiting: #OCHealthSurvey

Oneida County Urging Residents to Eat Their Fruits and Veggies for Better Health Fresh,Seasonal Options Available Locally.
Turns out mom was right about eating your fruits and veggies, and this month, designated Fruit and Vegetable Month, Oneida County residents are urged to eat smart and add more color to their plate.

Today is World No Tobacco Day and Oneida County is doing its part to decrease smoking rates.
“Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the nation, and we have been working very hard to decrease tobacco-related illness and the dangers of secondhand smoke,” said Oneida County Director of Health Phyllis D. Ellis BSN, MS, F.A.C.H.E. “We’ve made some strides, but we would like to make every day No Tobacco Day.”

Kits Available from Health Department in June
The Oneida County Health Department is offering county residents help in reducing the mosquito population around their homes and properties.
Beginning June 3, county residents can stop by the Health Department’s Environmental Services Office located on the 4th floor of the Adirondack Bank Building at 185 Genesee Street in Utica between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. to receive a free water soluble pouch that assists in controlling mosquito larvae in standing water.

It’s Time to Slip, Slop, Slap and Wrap for ‘Don’t Fry Day’
Oneida County officials are urging residents to enjoy the outdoors, but be safe in the sun as the Memorial Day weekend kicks off this Friday, which is also designated “National Don’t Fry Day.”