Meriden Health Talk

Strategies for a Healthy Spring


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In this episode of Meriden Health Talk, we want to give you three actionable strategies you can take for a healthy spring. 

First, spring brings blooming flowers and trees, which, for some, can cause seasonal allergies to pollen and grass. Persons with seasonal allergies may experience symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, or congestion. To reduce exposure, check local pollen forecasts, keep windows closed on high pollen days, and change your HVAC filter often. If you’ve spent time outdoors, you may want to change clothes and launder what you’ve been wearing. If allergy symptoms worsen, consider speaking with a healthcare provider about treatment options. An air quality index indicator can be found on our website, www.meridenhealth.com.


Second, let’s talk about outdoor safety. As temperatures rise, people start spending more time outside gardening, biking, and exercising. Remember to prevent sunburn, even on cloudy days, by wearing sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 15 or higher. Wear a helmet when riding your bike, gloves when doing your yardwork, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. You may also want to consider insect repellent, following the directions on the container, when spending time outdoors.

Last, remember spring cleaning safety.  Spring is a great time to do a little scrubbing and re-organizing. When using cleaning products, make sure areas are well ventilated and always follow label instructions. Never mix cleaning chemicals, especially bleach and ammonia, as this can create dangerous fumes.  Wear gloves to protect your skin from potential irritants. When done, store cleaning products out of the reach of children.

During your spring cleaning, if come across expired or unused medication, be sure to dispose of it safely. Meriden has 2 options to safely dispose of medication.

  1. There is a medication drop box available 24/7, 365 days per year located in the lobby of the Meriden Police Department, located at 50 West Main Street. The box only accepts certain items, make sure you watch the educational video on our website before dropping off your medications.
  2. If you can't make it to the Police Department, consider picking up medication disposal bags or packets in the lobby of our office at 165 Miller Street. These items are available at no cost.
  3. Spring is a wonderful time to get outside, reconnect with nature, and enjoy warmer days. By taking a few simple precautions, you can help make sure the season stays safe and healthy for everyone.

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    Meriden Health TalkBy meridenhealthtalk