Meriden Health Talk

In this episode of Meriden Health Talk, in honor of National Food Safety Education Month, we're talking about an important responsibility of our Environmental Health Department: inspecting food service establishments throughout the City of Meriden.
Food service inspections are an essential part of protecting public health. They help ensure that food is prepared, stored, handled, and served safely, and they play a critical role in preventing foodborne illness.
Our Environmental Health office is responsible for routinely inspecting all food service establishments in our city, as well as following up on complaints received by our office. The goal is straightforward: to protect the health and safety of the public and prevent foodborne illness.
In February 2023, the State of Connecticut adopted the FDA Model Food Code, replacing the previous Public Health Code. This change introduced several important updates to the way food service establishments are regulated and inspected.
One major change was the removal of the traditional 100-point inspection scale. There is no longer a numerical score assigned to an inspection. Instead, the FDA inspection form identifies individual items as either "in compliance" or "out of compliance".
Another important change is how violations are categorized according to their level of risk.
Under the previous system, violations were marked on a scale of one to four, with four representing the most critical violations. Under the FDA Food Code, violations are divided into three risk-based categories: Priority, Priority Foundation, and Core.
Priority violations represent the highest level of risk because they are directly linked to preventing foodborne illness. Examples include improper handwashing and incorrect cooking or holding temperatures. These violations must be corrected immediately on site or within 72 hours.
Priority Foundation violations are also important to preventing foodborne illness because they support or enable compliance with Priority requirements. Examples include not having soap available at a handwashing sink or not having the required food thermometers. Food service establishments generally have up to 10 calendar days to correct these violations.
Finally, there are Core violations, which are considered lower risk and are not directly related to an immediate foodborne-illness hazard. Examples may include cracked floor tiles, dusty ceiling vents, or rusty dry-storage shelves. These violations are generally given up to 90 calendar days to be corrected.
The transition to the FDA Food Code also introduced several important operational requirements for food service establishments.
Class 2, 3, and 4 establishments must have a trained and certified food protection manager on site during operation. These trained professionals play an important role in ensuring that proper food safety practices are followed every day.
Establishments must also follow a seven-day date-marking system for certain prepared, ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety foods that are held for more than 24 hours. Proper date marking helps prevent food from being kept or served beyond its safe storage period.
Food establishments are also required to have employee illness reporting agreements. Employees need to understand when they must report certain illnesses or symptoms to management, because sick food workers can be a significant source of foodborne illness.
Establishments must also have written procedures for cleaning up vomiting and diarrheal events and have appropriate clean up kits on site. These incidents can potentially spread highly infectious pathogens, so proper cleanup and disinfection are essential to protecting employees and customers.
Another important requirement is food allergen awareness training for food establishment employees. Food allergies can cause serious and potentially life-threatening reactions, making accurate allergen information and proper food handling extremely important.
But while the regulations and inspection process may have changed, the fundamental purpose of food service inspections has not changed. It is and always has been about protecting public health.
If you any questions regarding Food service establishment inspections by our Environmental Health Office, please contact us at (203) 630-4226. Inspection files are open to the public and can be viewed during regular business hours.

In this episode of Meriden Health Talk, we are talking about Overdose Awareness Day! 
We are just a few days away from International Overdose Awareness Day, a time to remember the lives lost to overdose, acknowledge the grief experienced by families and loved ones, and raise awareness about overdose prevention and recovery. It is also an opportunity to reduce the stigma surrounding substance use and remind our community that people struggling with substance use deserve compassion, support, and access to care.
Overdose continues to be a public health issue in Meriden and communities across the country. While we have seen encouraging declines in overdose deaths, there is still much work to do.
People CAN and DO recover, and we are here to help. In Meriden, we have the Meriden Opioid Referral for Recovery program, also known as MORR. The MORR program is funded by a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration grant and is a partnership between Rushford, Meriden Police and Fire Departments, Hunters Ambulance, and our department.
MORR is designed to meet individuals where they are at in their recovery journey and connect them to programs and services that will best fit their individual needs while also providing education and resources to the community about substance use and mental health, overdose, and Naloxone. The program has two main goals:
Referrals for those in need are made by our Police and Fire Departments, and Hunters Ambulance to trained clinicians at Rushford for treatment and recovery services and,
Life-saving overdose prevention and response efforts including community trainings, distribution of Naloxone to the public and community partners/first responders, and outreach at community events and identified areas in our city that may have seen a spike in overdose events.
Quarterly updates on the MORR program can be found on our website.
To honor Overdose Awareness Day in Meriden, Rushford, in partnership with our Department, will be hosting an event on Saturday, August 29, 2026 from 10:00am to 2:00pm, on the Meriden Green in the Amphitheater area. In addition to multiple other vendors, we will be there offering pop-up Naloxone training, overdose wall cabinets for Meriden businesses and organizations, and overdose prevention resources. It will be a day to remember those we have lost and learn to take action to save lives. 
To learn more, and to view quarterly updates on the MORR program, please visit our website: www.meridenhealth.com - and click on the link for life-saving overdose prevention and response efforts. 

Attention Meriden residents, we have received notice from the CT Department of Public Health that mosquitos trapped on August 5, 2026 by the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station in Meriden have tested positive for West Nile Virus. Meriden's trapping and testing site is Falcon Park. So far this year, 16 towns and cities in Connecticut have had mosquitos test positive for West Nile Virus.
West Nile virus is a leading mosquito-borne disease spread primarily through the bites of infected mosquitoes, which pick up the virus from birds. 
As your local health and human services department, we ask that residents eliminate standing water from items such as buckets, flowerpots, birdbaths, and other containers. This will help reduce mosquito breeding sites around your home. Make sure door and window screens are tight-fitting and in good repair. When outdoors, especially between dusk and dawn when mosquitos are most active, cover exposed skin by wearing loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and use an insect repellent according to the product label.
While most people infected with West Nile virus do not develop any symptoms, about one in five people develop a fever with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Some populations, such as those persons over 60 and those with certain medical conditions, can develop a more severe illness affecting the central nervous system, such as encephalitis or meningitis. Persons should call their doctor if they develop these symptoms.
Remember, mosquitoes can bite both day and night. To protect yourself and your family, minimize time spent outdoors between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors and over strollers or baby carriers to protect infants. And when using mosquito repellent, always follow the instructions on the product label.
If you have any questions, please call our Environmental Health office at (203) 630-4226.

Hello Meriden! Welcome back to another episode of Meriden Health Talk, your local department of health and human services’ bi-weekly podcast that provides our residents insight on a range of topics, including prevention, seasonal health information, and local updates and alerts.
Meriden has been hit with quite a bite of rain recently and today we want to talk about flash floods, which can affect our community during a period of heavy rainfall.
While emergency alerts and evacuation instructions during severe flooding are typically issued by the Fire or Police Department, our Department plays an important role in supporting public health emergency preparedness. This is done through planning, training, exercising, response, and recovery. We also provide community education and resources to help residents prepare for emergencies before they happen, and recover from emergencies after they occur.
A flash flood is rapid flooding that occurs within minutes or a few hours often time after a period of heavy rainfall. Unlike flooding that develops over several days, flash floods happen fast. Roads that were dry just moments before can become submerged, storm drains can overflow, and small streams can rise dramatically in a short period of time.
That's why it's important to pay attention to weather forecasts and emergency alerts, especially during periods of heavy rain.
Floodwater may look harmless, but it can be incredibly powerful. Just six inches of moving water can knock an adult off their feet, and about a foot of moving water can carry away many vehicles. Floodwater may also hide washed-out roads, debris, open manholes, sharp objects, or downed power lines.
Never assume it's safe simply because the water appears shallow. One of the most important flood safety messages is: Turn Around, Don't Drown. If you encounter a flooded roadway:
Never drive through it.
Turn around and find another route.
Follow road closure signs.
Do not walk through floodwater.
In order to raise more awareness and prepare Meriden residents age 50 and over to prepare for and respond to emergency disasters or natural hazards that can occur in Meriden, our Department will be hosting no cost trainings at the Meriden Senior Center. This training - called Meriden Preparedness and Response Education Program for Seniors (or Meriden PREPS for short) - will be held August 12, September 9, October 14, and November 4 from 10:00 – 11:00am.
Staff will talk about different disasters or emergencies that could or have impacted Meriden in the past. Those that attend will learn how to:
Build an emergency preparedness kit.
Create an emergency plan.
Stay informed before, during, and after an emergency or disaster.
As an added bonus, everyone that signs up and attends will receive a free emergency go bag filled with basic preparedness supplies.
To sign up, please call the Meriden Senior Center at (203) 237-0066, or stop by the Senior Center's Main Office to register in person. Class is limited to 15 people per session.
We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to AARP for their generous support and for making this important program possible. Together, we are helping build a safer, stronger, and more prepared Meriden.

In this episode of Meriden Health Talk, we are talking about how to prevent heat-related illnesses this summer. 
While many people enjoy spending time outside during warm weather, extreme heat can quickly become dangerous if we are not prepared. Knowing how to stay cool, stay hydrated, and recognize the warning signs of heat-related illnesses can make all the difference.
Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses too much water and salt through sweating.
Common symptoms include:
Dizziness
Heavy sweating
Nausea
Weakness
If someone is experiencing these symptoms:
Move them to a cool place.
Loosen tight clothing.
Offer cool water to sip slowly.
Seek medical help if symptoms do not improve.
Heat stroke occurs when the body’s cooling system fails, causing the body’s core temperature to rapidly spike above 104 degrees F.
Signs of heat stroke include:
Confusion or unusual behavior
Dizziness
Or if the person loses consciousness
If you suspect a person is experiencing heat stroke: Call 911 immediately.
While waiting for emergency responders:
Move the person into the shade or indoors.
Remove excess clothing.
Cool them with cold water or ice.
Take the necessary precautions to prevent serious health effects such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke:
Drink plenty of water. Do not wait until you are thirsty. Drink water throughout the day, especially if you are spending time outdoors.
Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing.
Limit outdoor activities. Try to schedule exercise or yard work during the cooler morning or evening hours.
Take frequent breaks. If you are working outside, rest in the shade or in an air-conditioned space.
Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles. Even with the windows cracked, temperatures inside a car can become deadly within minutes.
In Meriden, if Governor Ned Lamont activates Connecticut’s Extreme Hot Weather Protocol the Meriden Public Library and Meriden Senior Center will be designated as cooling centers for the public. If and when this happens we will post information on our website, www.meridenhealth.com. 

In this episode of Meriden Health Talk, we are talking about 4th of July celebrations!
The Fourth of July is a time for backyard barbecues, fireworks, parades, and spending time with family and friends. While it is one of the most anticipated holidays of the summer, especially this year because we are celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States, it also comes with increased risks of injuries, foodborne illness, and impaired driving.
As you plan for your holiday weekend we would like to remind residents of some simple steps you can take to ensure your holiday is memorable for all the right reasons.
Nothing says Fourth of July quite like fireworks, but they can also be extremely dangerous.
Every year, people are treated in emergency departments for fireworks-related injuries. Burns to the hands, face, and eyes are among the most common injuries, and children are especially at risk.
Here are a few important reminders:
The safest way to enjoy fireworks is by attending a professional public display. Meriden's firework show is July 2 at Hubbard Park with festivities starting at 4:00pm.
Never allow young children to handle or light fireworks.
Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby.
Never relight fireworks that fail to ignite.
Stay a safe distance away after lighting fireworks.
Dispose of used fireworks by soaking them in water before throwing them away.
Even sparklers can reach temperatures of nearly 2,000 degrees, hot enough to melt metal and cause serious burns. Consider safer alternatives like glow sticks or LED light wands for young children.
Summer cookouts are a holiday tradition, but warm temperatures create the perfect environment for bacteria to grow.
Follow these simple food safety tips:
Wash your hands before preparing or eating food.
Keep raw meat separate from ready-to-eat foods.
Cook hamburgers to 160 degrees Fahrenheit and poultry to 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a food thermometer to check the temperature.
Refrigerate perishable foods within two hours or within one hour if temperatures are above 90 degrees. If food has been sitting out too long, it is safest to throw it away. When in doubt, throw it out.
If your holiday plans include alcohol, make safety your priority. Never drink and drive. Arrange for a designated driver, use a rideshare service, call a taxi, or ask a friend for a ride.  Alcohol can also contribute to dehydration and increase your risk of heat-related illness, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. If you are hosting a gathering, offer non-alcoholic beverages and encourage guests to make safe transportation plans before the celebration begins.
From all of us at the City of Meriden Health and Human Services Department, we wish you and your family a happy, healthy, and safe Fourth of July.

In this episode of Meriden Health Talk, we would like to remind barbershop, hairdressing and cosmetology shop owners and massage establishments owners about their license renewal that is due to our Environmental Health Office on or before June 30, 2026.
Chapter 70-3 of the Meriden City Code requires all barbershop, hair salon, and nail salon owners to complete an annual license application and fee each year on or before June 30.
On June 1, 2026 the City of Meriden transitioned to a new software system called OpenGov. This portal requires business owners to create an account in order to renew your license.
To start this process please visit OpenGov’s website at meridenct.portal.opengov.com. Select “Health Department” and from there it will list all available service options, which includes Barbershop, Hairdressing & Cosmetology Shop License. After completing the application and paying the application fee your license will then be renewed for one year through June 30, 2027. Owners can print their license directly from the OpenGov portal.
If business owners need access to a computer or needs assistance, you can visit our office at 165 Miller Street Monday through Friday from 8:00am – 4:30pm.
As a reminder, your license expires June 30, and failure to complete this process will result in a late fee and possible closure of your business.
If business owners have any questions about OpenGov or the license renewal process, please contact our Environmental Health office at (203) 630-4226.

In this episode of Meriden Health Talk, we are talking about hurricane preparedness in honor of the start of hurricane season!
Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, with activity typically peak between August and October. While Connecticut may not experience hurricanes as often as states down south, our communities - including Meriden - can still face significant impact from tropical storms and hurricanes including flooding, power outages, downed trees, and dangerous road conditions.
Even if a storm makes landfall hundreds of miles away, Connecticut can still experience heavy rainfall, strong winds, coastal flooding, and extended power outages.
Here are some safety tips on how to stay safe before, during, and after a hurricane occurs.
Tip # 1 Prepare your Home before the Storm. Luckily, hurricane advisories are often made public several days before potential landfall, giving time to prepare.
Before a storm arrives:
Secure outdoor furniture, grills, and decorations,
Trim dead or damaged tree branches,
Clear gutters and storm drains for proper water flow,
Move valuable items to higher levels of your home if flooding is expected,
Charge electronic devices in the event the storm causes power outages, and
If you have a generator make sure you test it and ensure it has enough fuel.
Tip # 2 Stay Informed. Meriden participates in CT ALERT is a statewide system that enables state and local 911 emergency communication centers to provide essential information quickly in a variety of emergency situations. By signing up you will be informed via text, phone call and/or email during emergencies in the Meriden area including public health threats, dangerous weather, fires and public safety incidents. To register text your zip code to 888-777 OR sign up at www.ctalert.gov. Our Department will also post safety tips and updates on our Facebook page and website, especially if we anticipate to open an emergency shelter or charging station.
Tip # 3 Safety During and After the StormDuring the storm, stay indoors and away from windows, avoid unnecessary travel, and, if you need to venture outdoors, never walk or drive through floodwaters.
After the storm ends, watch for downed power lines - report them to your electrical company. If you lost power and have a generator, use it outdoors only away from windows and doors. Check in on neighbors, especially older adults and those who may need assistance. And - be careful during cleanup. Wear protective clothing and use appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris.
Hurricane season is a reminder that preparedness starts long before a storm appears in the forecast. For more information on how you can be prepared for a hurricane or tropical storm please visit www.ready.gov/hurricanes.  

In this episode of Meriden Health Talk, we are talking about how you can protect yourself, your family, and your community this summer from illnesses transmitted by mosquitoes. 
Tip #1 Dump Standing WaterMosquitoes only need a small amount of water to lay their eggs. One of the most effective ways to reduce mosquitoes around your home is to eliminate standing water. Take a few minutes each week to:
Empty flowerpot saucers
Refresh the water in bird baths
Drain kiddie pools when not in use
Dump standing water from buckets, tarps, and outdoor toys, and
Check your home's gutters to make sure they are draining properly
Tip #2 Protect Yourself from BitesWhen spending time outdoors take steps to prevent mosquito bites, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
Wear protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks and closed-toe shoes when possible. Cover strollers and baby carriers with mosquito netting.
And, don’t forget to use insect repellent. Look for EPA-registered repellents containing ingredients such as DEET, Picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Always follow label directions, especially when applying insect repellent to children.
Tip #3 Mosquito-Proof Your HomeTo keep mosquitoes outside of your home, you can:
Install or repair and use window and door screens.
Close doors, including garage doors. Do not leave doors propped open, and
Use air conditioning when possible
The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station is the agency responsible for trapping, identifying, and testing mosquitoes for West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus, and Jamestown Canyon. Testing and trapping starts June 1 through the end of October. Meriden’s trapping and testing location is at Falcon Park. Reports and updates are provided weekly on their website: www.portal.ct.gov/caes. If mosquitoes trapped and tested in Meriden test positive for any illness we will notify residents.
To learn more about mosquito prevention visit our website: www.meridenhealth.com.
 

In this episode of Meriden Health Talk, we will hear from Rhonda Knight, Early Childhood Coordinator for Meriden Early Start on how to help your child transition smoothly from preschool to kindergarten.
Good morning families, this is Rhonda Knight, Early Childhood Coordinator with the Early Start Program in Meriden, and today I want to share 3 quick tips to help your child transition smoothly from preschool to kindergarten.
Tip number one: Start building routines now.Kindergarten schedules can be a big adjustment, so practicing bedtime routines, morning routines, and independent tasks like putting on coats or cleaning up can help children feel more confident and prepared.
Tip number two: Talk positively about kindergarten.Children often take emotional cues from adults. Reading books about kindergarten, talking about making new friends, and discussing exciting classroom activities can help ease anxiety and build excitement.
And tip number three: Encourage independence.Simple things like letting your child practice opening snacks, using the bathroom independently, or following simple directions can make a big difference in helping them feel successful at school.
And families, this is also an important reminder to register your child for kindergarten as soon as possible. To make an appointment online, please visit the Meriden Public Schools Registration webpage at www.meridenk12.org.
Please remember, children must be 5 years old on or before September 1st to enroll in kindergarten. The Meriden school district will not be offering waivers for children who do not meet the age requirement.
If your child does not meet the eligibility criteria, it’s important to maintain enrollment in their current preschool program. And if you are looking for a preschool program, families can visit the Meriden Early Start webpage at www.meridenhealth.com for a list of state-funded childcare programs and contact information.
Thank you for listening, and we wish all of our future kindergarteners a successful transition into school.