Document Text
--- Document: Sussex County Division of Health Document ---
schealth@sussex.nj.us
201 Wheatsworth Road,
Hamburg, NJ 07419
Welcome to
the health
hub!
March, 2026
Volume 3, Issue 3
Sussex County
Division of Health
Newsletter
01 / 06
Sussex County
Office of Environmental Health
973-579-0370
What are environmental allergies?
How do environmental allergies affect the body?
What are environmental allergens?
How to prevent environmental allergies at home:
Environmental Allergies
UNDERSTANDING
Environmental allergies occur when your immune system reacts too strongly to substances
in your surroundings. These substances, known as allergens, are typically harmless, but for
someone who is allergic, the body mistakenly identifies them as a threat and overreacts
when exposed.
Environmental allergies occur when your body reacts to allergens in your surroundings.
Symptoms may include:
Sneezing
Itchy or runny nose
Red, watery eyes
Headache or fatigue
Hives
Wheezing or trouble breathing
Nasal congestion
Postnasal drip
Coughing
Environmental allergens are substances around you that can trigger reactions, including:
Keep windows closed and use air conditioning to limit pollen.
Keep indoor humidity below 50% to prevent mold and dust mites.
Clean damp areas often and avoid mold-prone spaces.
Bathe and brush pets regularly, and keep them out of bedrooms.
Wash bedding weekly in hot water and use dust-mite–proof covers.
Vacuum carpets and rugs frequently or choose hard flooring when possible.
Avoid smoking or burning scented products indoors.
Pollen: Dust from trees, grass, and weeds, common in warm, windy weather.
Mold: Fungi that grow in damp indoor areas and outdoors in humid conditions.
Pet dander: Proteins from an animal’s skin, fur, feathers, and saliva.
Dust mites: Tiny organisms in bedding and carpets, reactions come from their waste
and body particles.
Cockroaches: Allergies caused by proteins in their droppings and body parts.
schealth@sussex.nj.us
201 Wheatsworth Road,
Hamburg, NJ 07419
02 / 06
Sussex County
Office of Environmental Health
973-579-0370
Stay Alert On:
POISON
PREVENTION
More than 90% of the time, poisonings happen inside homes.
Follow these prevention tips in your home!
Food
Medicine
Environmental
Household Products
Cleaners and disinfectants can be harmful if not used properly.
Never mix bleach with anything except water.
Keep products in original containers and out of children’s reach.
Do not store chemicals in food or drink containers.
Avoid using cleaners or bleach on food, hands, or skin unless directed.
Rinse fruits and vegetables under running water.
Do not wash meat, poultry, or eggs.
Never use cleaning products on food or packaging.
Wash hands and surfaces before and after preparing food.
Keep refrigerated foods below 40°F (5°C).
Keep medicines and harmful substances locked up and out of children’s reach.
Store medications in their original labeled containers.
Do not share prescriptions.
Check with a healthcare provider, pharmacist, or call 1-800-222-1222 about
possible drug interactions.
Be aware of the main types of environmental poisoning
Lead: a highly toxic metal that can
cause serious health problems
when paint chips or lead dust are
ingested or inhaled.
Carbon monoxide:
colorless, odorless,
deadly gas produced by
fuel-burning appliances
Pesticides: chemicals used to control
insects and rodents, but they can be
harmful to people and pets if not
handled, used, or stored properly.
03 / 06
scphn@sussex.nj.us
201 Wheatsworth Road,
Hamburg, NJ 07419
March is:
Reduce Your Risk of Colorectal Cancer
Get Screened
Eat a Healthy Diet
Avoid Smoking
Avoid Alcohol
Sussex County
Office of Public Health Nursing
973-579-0570
COLORECTAL
COLORECTAL
CANCER
CANCER
Awareness
What Is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer is cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. It often begins as
small growths called polyps that can become cancer over time. Early detection
through screening can prevent cancer or find it when it is highly treatable.
It is the 3rd most common cancer in men and women
It is the 2nd leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S.
Often develops without symptoms in early stages
Screening can prevent it
Why it Matters
Age 45 or older
Family history of colorectal cancer
Personal history of polyps or inflammatory bowel disease
Diet high in red/processed meats
Physical inactivity or smoking/alcohol use
Know the Risk Factors
04 / 06
scphn@sussex.nj.us
201 Wheatsworth Road,
Hamburg, NJ 07419
1/4 PLATE
PROTEIN
SOURCES
Choose a variety of lean
protein sources such as
poultry, lean meats,
fish, eggs, beans, lentils,
nuts, seeds, and soy
products. Protein should
make up about one-
quarter of your plate—
roughly 4–6
ounces of meat or fish
for adults. It helps keep
you satisfied and
supports muscle growth
and repair.
Sussex County
Office of Public Health Nursing
973-579-0570
NUTRITION
NUTRITION
NATIONAL
NATIONAL
March is
Month
1/2 PLATE
FRUITS & VEGGIES
Fill half your plate
with fruits and
vegetables at every
meal. They’re rich in
fiber to support
healthy digestion
and provide
essential vitamins
and minerals that
help keep your
body energized.
Eating a variety of
colorful options
ensures you get a
wide range of
nutrients. Fresh,
frozen, or canned
options can be a
healthy choice
when included in
your daily meals.
Grains should make up
one-quarter of your
plate, and at least half
of those choices should
be whole grains. Whole
wheat bread, brown rice,
corn, and oatmeal are
great examples. Whole
grains provide more
fiber, which helps you
feel full longer and
supports healthy
digestion. About ½ cup of
cooked grains is an
appropriate portion for
an adult meal side.
1/4 PLATE
WHOLE GRAINS
National Nutrition Month is a time to focus on making informed food choices and
building healthy eating habits. Here’s how to organize your plate to include a
balance of fruits, vegetables, grains, and protein for better overall health.
Sussex County
Division of Health
973-579-0570
201 Wheatsworth Road,
Hamburg NJ 07419
05 / 06
Indoor Health Tips
Replace Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning filters
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Check for leaks or signs of mold
Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces
Safely dispose of expired medications
Outdoor Health Tips
Remove standing water to prevent mosquitoes
Clean gutters and ensure proper drainage
Inspect playgrounds and outdoor equipment
Secure trash to warn off pests
Personal Health Checklist
Stay up to date on medical checkups and screenings
Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated
Exercise regularly and get fresh air
Practice good hygiene, including handwashing
Wear sunscreen and protect against sun exposure
schealth@sussex.nj.us
SPRING
HEALTH
SPRING
HEALTH
C H E C K L I S T
Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home and protect your family’s
health. Use this checklist to reduce hazards indoors and outdoors.
SPOTLIGHT
OF THE MONTH
Who Can Volunteer?
Medical & Health Professionals
Physicians
Nurses
Pharmacists
Mental health professionals
Paramedics
Medical assistants
Retired or active healthcare providers
Non-Health Professionals
Administrative & clerical support
Reception & phone assistance
Translation services
Event & outreach support
Anyone with an interest in
health and emergency preparedness
What Does the MRC Do?
✔ Supplements existing emergency and public health resources
✔ Organizes community volunteers to prepare for and respond to
emergencies
✔ Supports disease prevention and injury reduction efforts
✔ Strengthens local emergency response capabilities
Training and Support
All MRC volunteers receive training to
assist Sussex County public health
professionals in preventing and
minimizing disease and injuries in our
community.
06 / 06
The Sussex County Board of County Commissioners created the Sussex County
Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) to bring together health professionals and
community members who want to support public health and emergency
preparedness efforts.
The MRC plays a vital role in strengthening our county’s ability to respond to public
health needs and large-scale emergencies. It is part of Citizen Corps, a national
initiative supported by Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to engage
communities in all-hazards preparedness and resilience.
Be prepared. Be involved.
Be part of the solution.
Scan the QR Code to Join!
SUSSEX COUNTY MEDICAL RESERVE CORPS