iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 1h

Karen was without health insurance when she learned her pap smear was abnormal. “Thankfully, I was able to get free cervical cancer screening through the New York State Cancer Services Program. See if you’re eligible: on.ny.gov/3VhreHD

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 18h

The main steel frame of the new Wadsworth Center is in place for the nation-leading public health lab that will enhance the State’s ability to prepare for and respond to public health crisis. Commissioner #DrJamesMcDonald was on site for the topping off…

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 14/10/2026

Who needs what? NYS recommends vaccines for the whole family to protect against serious illness. Get flu & COVID vaccines at pharmacies & providers, RSV for eligible adults & pregnant people at the pharmacy without a prescription. More info: nysdoh.info/immunization

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 09/10/2026

Flu season is early! Commissioner #DrJamesMcDonald rolled up his sleeve to ensure protection from serious illness. Vaccines are the best way to do that & recommended for everyone 6 months & older. Available now at pharmacies & providers across NY. Get yours. Info: nysdoh.info/VaccineFAQ

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 09/10/2026

If you notice sudden changes in your child’s behavior, including tics, new rituals or refusing food, discuss those changes with their healthcare provider. Sometimes those changes are associated with conditions called PANS or PANDAS. Learn more: nysdoh.info/pandas

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 08/10/2026

Don't think you qualify for discounts on your energy bills? Commissioner #DrJamesMcDonald advises you to think again! Half of NYS households now qualify for the Energy Affordability Program. Press play to learn more and then sign up here: ny.gov/EAP

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 08/10/2026

Most NYers are already protected against measles. Born before 1957? You're considered immune. Born 1957–1971? Some vaccines used then weren't as reliable, so ask your provider whether you're properly vaccinated. Read the full Measles FAQ: health.ny.gov/measles

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 07/10/2026

Commissioner #DrJamesMcDonald was in Utica to discuss the Rural Community Health Integration initiative to help provide for the health and social needs of residents in the Oneida and Herkimer counties area, with funding support from CMS: medicaid.gov/resources-for-states/rural-health

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 06/10/2026

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, let’s turn awareness into action—for yourself, for the women you love & for every woman, so she has the chance to live a healthier life. Hear from DOH Executive Deputy Commissioner & breast cancer survivor Johanne Morne…

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 06/10/2026

Fever. Cough. Stuffy nose. Which respiratory virus is it? Symptoms alone often can’t tell you, but the advice for all is the same: stay home, cover coughs & sneezes, call your healthcare provider & stay up to date with vaccines. More info: nysdoh.info/RespViruses

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 05/10/2026

DYK: People with a regular healthcare provider are more likely to be up to date on cancer screening and take their meds if they have high blood pressure? This National Primary Care Week, see where to start if you don't have a provider yet: nysdoh.info/FindAProvider

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 05/10/2026

Commissioner Dr. James McDonald: “The measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine is the best protection – protecting nearly all people against disease who receive the recommended doses.” More info about measles and where cases are across NY: nysdoh.info/MeaslesInfo

Governor Hochul Declares State Disaster Emergency in Response to Ongoing Measles Outbreak

Executive Order Allows Additional Healthcare Providers to Administer Vaccines
- Expanded pool includes paramedics, pharmacists and midwives
- Allows nurses to order testing

Commissioner McDonald says DOH staff is working with local health departments and regional partners to track and contain outbreak; urges New Yorkers to check their vaccine status and make sure they and their families are protected.

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 02/10/2026

Tonight, in recognition of survivors and those fighting breast cancer, landmarks across NYS will glow pink. Honor them and take steps to protect your health by scheduling your mammogram. More info: nysdoh.info/ScreeningData

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 02/10/2026

Commissioner #DrJamesMcDonald highlighting NY’s leadership on efforts to ensure kids unplug so they can focus in school, with friends & have fun. He highlighted Governor Kathy Hochul’s smartphone restrictions in schools, & programs that encourage kids to turn off their devices, get outside & play.

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 01/10/2026

Lakes Erie and Ontario are some of the best places to catch fish for the whole family to enjoy. The Department’s new advice considers how “forever chemicals” found in certain fish can affect your health, so be sure to check it out before eating your catch: health.ny.gov/fish

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 30/09/2026

Sometimes little choices add up to a healthier you – a few more steps, more water, nourishing meals—because healthy looks different on everyone. On National Women’s Health and Fitness Day, normalize making your health a priority. Women's health topics: nysdoh.info/WomensHealth

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

The Nor’easter that pummeled the eastern end of NY also wreaked havoc on blood supplies because of canceled drives & individual donations, resulting in blood expected but not collected & still needed. Make an appointment at the New York Blood Center to save lives: bit.ly/4gyjNUZ

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

The measles virus can linger in the air for up to 2 hours after an infected person has left the room. With cases diagnosed in areas of NY where it was once rare, DOH urges you to learn more about measles & where there are outbreaks: nysdoh.info/measlesdashboard

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

Wildlife and stray animals can carry rabies—even when they look harmless. Protect your family of humans and animals by staying away from wild or stray animals and keeping your pets up to date with rabies vaccines. More info about rabies: nysdoh.info/rabies

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

Let's talk sexual health! 🗣️ Explore important topics and get tips for having open, honest conversations with your health care provider. Knowledge is power: on.ny.gov/4gMV7YT

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

You may quality for savings if you pay for electricity or natural gas through one of the state’s utility companies. Half of all New York households are now eligible for monthly relief through the Energy Affordability Program. Learn more and apply: ny.gov/EAP.

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

Commissioner McDonald says he is “deeply concerned about children's digital diet. The Governor was very ahead of this. I think it's really important we got the cell phone ban." Take a look at Governor Kathy Hochul’s phone-free schools law: nysdoh.info/PhoneFreeSchools

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

Want to Quit Vaping? You don’t have to do it alone. Sign up for texts at DropTheVape.org for free, confidential help.

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

In recognition of Public Health Lab Appreciation month, we salute the experts at our own Wadsworth Center who ensure NYS continues to lead the nation in disease surveillance. More about the largest & most diverse state public health lab in the country: nysdoh.info/WadsworthCtr

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

One in 8 males will develop prostate cancer in their lifetime, making it the second most diagnosed cancer among men in NYS. All men 55 to 69 should talk with their health care provider about whether prostate cancer screening is right for them. More info: nysdoh.info/3SXpeDV

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

Commissioner #DrJamesMcDonald writing that listening with empathy and compassion among key factors in how the DOH continues to improve care for those living with sickle cell disease. Read his OpEd, penned for Sickle Cell Awareness Month: nysdoh.info/SickleCellOpEd

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

Learn how to reduce your risk of injury from falling. This Falls Prevention Week, learn simple ways to stay steady and safe: nysdoh.info/FallsPrevention

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 21/09/2026

The scenery is gorgeous and the fish abundant in the Adirondack region! Be sure to check our advice about which fish are best to eat when caught from waters the region--some have high mercury levels. Learn more: health.ny.gov/fish/ADK

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

If you pay for electricity or natural gas through one of the state’s utility companies, you may quality for savings. Half of all New York households are now eligible for monthly relief through the Energy Affordability Program. Learn more and apply: ny.gov/EAP.

ny.gov

Energy Affordability Program

Program provides income-eligible consumers with a discount on their monthly electric and/or gas bills.

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

Morethan 100,000 NYers are living with diagnosed HIV, 56% are over 50 & many in their 70s, 80s & 90s. Commissioner Dr. James McDonald: "Their survival is a testament to their courage and determination coupled with historic medical breakthroughs." Find info & resources: nysdoh.info/HIVandAging

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 17/09/2026

Live more independently. If you're looking to return to your community from a nursing home and live more independently, Open Doors can help. Find a program near you: on.ny.gov/4hUdN9Z

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 17/09/2026

If you have school-age kids playing sports, focus on eye protection: on.ny.gov/4wx6lFC

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 16/09/2026

Commissioner Dr. James McDonald: “By expanding free swimming lessons, NY SWIMS is helping break down barriers and address disparities that put some children, particularly children of color, at greater risk of drowning.” Additional information: on.ny.gov/4gU8HZe

Drawing of instructor in a pool with children swimming and caption:
Governor Hochul's NY SWIMS Program Provides Expanded Access to Free Swimming Lessons

Drawing of children in pool with quote from NYS Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald: "Every child deserves the opportunity to learn how to swim and develop lifesaving water safety skills."

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 15/09/2026

In the midst of an increase in measles cases across NY, DOH has launched a Measles Dashboard so the public and county health leaders can determine the risk of measles in their area: bit.ly/MeaslesDashboard

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 15/09/2026

A wet start did not dampen the spirits of those who participated in the annual awareness run and walk for ovarian cancer in Albany Sunday, including Commissioner Dr. James McDonald and his family. Learn more about ovarian cancer: bit.ly/NYSDOH-Ovarian

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

DOH recently issued new guidelines for “forever chemicals” found in certain fish caught in NY waters. The guidelines help gain the benefits of eating what you catch while protecting against health risks. Info about how we set our advice on contaminants: on.ny.gov/4coJS6b

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 11/09/2026

On September 11, 2001, first responders did not hesitate to care for New Yorkers and visitors from all over as we endured an unimaginable tragedy. Listen as the DOH EMS Director reflects on the day, and then watch the profoundly moving longer video: youtu.be/EE-3aAkjWfY

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 11/09/2026

We remember. We honor. We carry forward with renewed commitment to protecting the health and wellbeing of every New Yorker.

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

DOH & NYC Health are recommending New Yorkers protect themselves from the upcoming respiratory virus season by arming themselves with recommended immunizations for flu, RSV & COVID-19. Learn more about immunization protection: on.ny.gov/4r6duLT

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

The Department partnered with New Rochelle YMCA to announce the expansion of Governor Kathy Hochul’s free learn-to-swim lessons for children up to age 12 through the NY SWIMS initiative. Additional info: on.ny.gov/4gU8HZe

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

A reminder that advocating for yourself is empowerment, so pay attention when something feels different. See your health care provider. Ask questions. Get answers. Empower your health. Empower yourself.💪🏽 More info: on.ny.gov/3UoM5bP

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

Commissioner #DrJamesMcDonald “By strengthening the infrastructure and workforce that support rural healthcare, we can improve health outcomes today while creating sustainable improvements that will benefit rural communities for generations.” Learn more: on.ny.gov/46fCKFO

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

DYK? Chemicals in fish can have a greater effect on childhood development and unborn babies. Many of these chemicals can stay in the human body for decades. Be sure to check our updated advice for eating the fish you catch: health.ny.gov/fish

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Tomorrow: The Department and community leaders will discuss efforts to address the overdose crisis. Adapt. Unite. Thrive. is a free virtual event exploring the community perspectives, partnerships and approaches helping shape overdose prevention. Join the conversation: bit.ly/4ypigq4

bit.ly

Sixth Annual NYS Overdose Awareness Day

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Head’s up! It’s back to school time which means kids are walking near you and near schools. Be aware and be safe: on.ny.gov/4eq0I6m

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 04/09/2026

The Department’s display at the NYS Fair includes free naloxone distribution and hands-on training demonstrating how to administer the life-saving medication. Naloxone is a crucial tool in harm reduction, used to reverse an opioid overdose and help combat the opioid epidemic.

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 04/09/2026

Check now to make sure your child is ready for the school year. Children attending day care and pre-K through 12th grade in NYS must receive all required doses of vaccines on the recommended schedule to attend school. Find answers to your questions: on.ny.gov/4fXagGH

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 03/09/2026

Commissioner #DrJamesMcDonald discusses what he wants you to know about the ongoing measles outbreak in New York State’s rural communities…

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

Overdose prevention continues to evolve & communities across NY are adapting with it. Join us 9/9 at 3pm for Adapt. Unite. Thrive. , a virtual event exploring community perspectives, partnerships & approaches helping shape overdose prevention. Register: bit.ly/4wQxGU9

bit.ly

Sixth Annual NYS Overdose Awareness Day

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New York State Department of Health @nysdoh.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

Naloxone saves lives. Visit our drug user health table at the Great New York State Fair located in the Science and Industry Building from 10am-6pm to get free lifesaving naloxone.

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