Media & Press Releases

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Media Relations

If you’re a member of the media and have questions or to request an interview, email Andrea.whitmarsh@essexcountyny.gov or call 518-873-3500

2024 Press Releases
The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) is reminding New Yorkers to protect themselves against EEE and other mosquito-borne diseases.
The Department is encouraging horse owners to get horses vaccinated for EEE and West Nile to prevent serious neurological disease and even death in unvaccinated animals.
On August 21, 2024, the NYSDOH put out a press release regarding EEE confirmed in New York horses, and how we can protect horses and ourselves (humans). 
 
Please note that there has been one confirmed EEE case in a horse identified in Clinton County. Horses cannot spread EEE to humans or other horses.
 
Statewide Mosquito-borne Disease Activity Reports can be found at this link: https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/west_nile_virus/archived_reports/
 
 

Credible Mind Launched – 10-10-24

Recovery Day Announced 9-26-24

Rabid Raccoon_8-7-24

Rabies Bait Drops Scheduled for August_7-31-24

Beers elected Pres of NYSACHO – 6-11-24

Raccoon positive for rabies in Moriah – 

2 more positive for Rabies_5-7-24

2nd Rabid Skunk in Westport 4-19-24

Rabid Skunk in Westport 4-11-24

ECHD Website Launch 2-12-24

Rabid Raccoon in Moriah 1-19-24

2022 Community Health Assessment

October 2025

Let No Tick Stick! 🕷️
That’s the title of our newest public service announcement — and it comes at a seasonal time when ticks are active in the fall. Local data shows a rise in tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease and Anaplasmosis here in Essex County.
📈 Reported cases increased from 183 in 2023 to 269 in 2024 — a 46% jump.
Data also shows that residents aged 55 and older are being affected more often.

👈 Check out the prevention tips in our video!

July 2025

Many parents and caregivers have questions about vaccines. In our interconnected communities, where the well-being of families is a shared value, the Essex County Health Department is committed to providing clear and reliable health information. We are launching a new public service announcement (PSA) featuring local pediatrician Michael Celotti, DO.

Dr. Celotti is available to answer questions and support families in making informed decisions.

In 2022 a series of videos were produced.
Let’s roll up our sleeves to foster a community of immunity. We have produced a series of Public Service Announcements from local families and health care providers sharing their experiences, expertise, and to connect people with resources they need to be healthy and protected. Find a medical home, and please know we as a health department are here when and if you are ready to vaccinate.
Breast cancer screening and early detection play an important role in your health. Screening tests help find breast cancer at an early stage when the chances of survival are highest.What is a screening mammogram?A screening mammogram uses X-rays to create images of the breast. It’s the most effective screening test used today to find breast cancer. Screening mammograms can find breast cancer early, before it can be felt by you or your doctor.Did you know NYS has a Cancer Services Program?The Cancer Services Program (CSP) provides Breast Cancer Screening (Mammogram and Clinical Breast Exam) for women Ages 40 and older, under age 40 at high risk for breast cancer, and diagnostic services at NO COST to people who qualify.Call the Essex County Cancer Services Program at 518-324-7671 or Call 1-866-442-CANCER (2262) to talk to someone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week who will connect you to a Cancer Services Program near you.Find out more here - www.health.ny.gov/diseases/cancer/services/ ...
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October is Pedestrian Safety Month, and it's a good time to remember how important it is to stay alert on the road.Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:Put the phone away: Drivers and walkers alike need to keep their eyes up.Stop for pedestrians: It is the law. Drivers must yield at crosswalks and intersections.Stay aware: Walkers should use marked crosswalks and check for turning cars before stepping out. ...
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