Broome County Health Department

09/12/2026

Looking for covid test? You may be able to get them for free through your insurance.

https://broomecountyny.gov/hd/COVIDtests

09/10/2026

Please share this important message

PLEASE SHARE!! If you’re using drugs once in a while or if you’re someone who uses drugs daily, we encourage you to practice harm reduction measures: never use alone, go slowly, use fentanyl and xylazine test strips, learn about the importance of rescue breaths, have a naloxone kit available and if you are on the scene of an overdose call 911. Naloxone is available at multiple organizations in Broome County. There’s also a Never Use Alone hotline: simply call 1-877-696-1996 to speak with a live person, judgement free.

We want to remind community members of the impacts of xylazine and medetomidine on opioid overdoses; these non-opioid substances are often added to drugs such as co***ne, he**in, methamphetamines, counterfeit pills and fentanyl to enhance drug effects or increase street value. If an overdose occurs and someone was suspected to have used one of these substances, rescue breaths are especially important.

If someone is experiencing an overdose, it’s important to call 9-1-1, administer naloxone, and provide rescue breaths.

Both fentanyl and xylazine test strips are also available in the community. If you or someone you love need harm reduction resources like a naloxone kit, xylazine and/or fentanyl test strips, you can call 211 for information on where to get them. That number is available 24 hours a day.

The Southern Tier AIDS Program (STAP) offers drug checking services at its 275-277 Main Street location in Johnson City. This service allows you to receive on the spot lab quality analysis that will tell you exactly what substances are in the sample presented and at what strengths. Knowledge is power, so come and find out what you have, free of charge. For more information call 607-237-0497.

09/10/2026

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a recall for a busy board toy sold on Amazon. The zipper on the toy contains lead levels over the federal limit. Limiting lead content in consumer items is especially important for toys. Anyone with a toddler knows that if there is a way a kid can put it in their mouth, they will!

Fewer than 2,000 of these busy boards were sold but this is a good reminder to be careful when buying toys online. The United States has very strict laws about lead content but other countries don't. It can be hard to tell where something is actually from when you're online shopping. Check the Consumer Product Safety Commission for recalls before buying!

09/10/2026

Did you know? 🤔 offers a wide variety of breastfeeding support services for you! 🤱Whether it’s guidance from peer counselors, support from lactation consultants, or access to breastfeeding supplies, WIC is here to help.

Want to learn more about how WIC can help you on your breastfeeding journey? Visit signupwic.com to find a clinic near you! 🫶

09/09/2026

The leaves are changing, the pumpkin spice lattes are flowing, and the Lead Education, Advocacy, and Diagnostic Award nominations are officially open!

Every fall Broome County Health Department hosts the "LEADy" awards to celebrate individuals and organizations who work to prevent lead poisoning through testing, awareness, renovation, and more. Anyone can be nominated and anyone can win so get your acceptance speech ready? 🏆

Click the link in the comments to submit a nomination or learn more!

09/08/2026

🐾Looking for a rabies vaccine for your pet? 🐾

The Broome County Health Department has partnered with The Broome County Humane Society to offer monthly rabies vaccination clinics for your pet.

🗓️Learn more about upcoming clinic dates, eligibility requirements, and what to bring by visiting:
https://bchumanesoc.com/services/vaccine-clinic/

09/08/2026

September is ! 👶Baby Safety Month is a great reminder of how you can actively help prevent injuries for your baby. Want to learn more about safety practices for your family? 💓Check out the Baby Safety Foundation’s ‘Baby Safety 101’ Guide: https://babysafetyfoundation.org/baby-safety-101

09/08/2026

09/07/2026

Do you have questions about health insurance? Wondering what your options are?

Mothers & Babies Perinatal Network will have staff available at the Broome County Health Department every Tuesday during clinic hours (8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.) to provide free, one-on-one assistance with:

✔️ Exploring your health insurance options
✔️ Understanding your coverage
✔️ Enrolling in a plan, if eligible

This service is available to anyone who needs help navigating health insurance.

Call 607-772-0517 to schedule an appointment.

Learn more about the programs and services offered by Mothers & Babies Perinatal Network: https://mothersandbabies.org/