Press Releases

PRESS RELEASE - The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency are recognizing SepticSmart Week Sept. 18-22, 2023. This annual event focuses on educating homeowners and communities on the proper care and maintenance of their septic systems. Proper care and maintenance protects the health and well-being of all North Carolinians by ensuring safe drinking water, preventing waterborne diseases, preserving the environment, maintaining property values and reducing repair costs.

PRESS RELEASE - September marks National Recovery Month, an opportunity to celebrate any changes towards wellness and a healthier, happier life. It specifically highlights people in recovery from substance use and mental health conditions, while also promoting treatment and recovery practices. The theme of Recovery Month is "Every Person. Every Family. Every Community." — an important reminder that recovery is all around us.

PRESS RELEASE - A new report showcases how North Carolina supported and invested in its child care programs so they could remain open during the COVID-19 pandemic, preserving the state’s early childhood education infrastructure and setting it apart from other states.

PRESS RELEASE - Suicide is a statewide and national public health crisis impacting people of all ages across all socioeconomic, racial and ethnic backgrounds. Suicide awareness is key to saving lives, and with September recognized as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services remembers those affected by suicide and is raising awareness of treatments and resources available to everyone in the community.

PRESS RELEASE - Everyone 6-months and older should get the fall COVID-19 vaccine with their flu shot. Because the COVID-19 virus continues to evolve, the updated COVID-19 vaccine is designed to match the changed virus and help protect people from serious illness, hospitalization and death.

PRESS RELEASE - Effective Tuesday, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services will temporarily assume leadership of child welfare services at the Nash County Department of Social Services, as authorized under state law.

MEDIA ADVISORY - North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley — alongside NC State Senators Jim Burgin and Norman Sanderson — will host a community discussion in Elizabeth City, N.C, on Sept. 14, at 6 p.m. on improving mental health care in North Carolina. NCDHHS is committed to transforming behavioral health and resilience, as more than three million people in North Carolina have mental health or substance use disorders.

PRESS RELEASE - September is National Food Safety Education Month and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is raising awareness about common foodborne illnesses and steps you can take to prevent them.

PRESS RELEASE - During the current period where COVID-19 cases are increasing, treatment is readily available and appropriate for the majority of North Carolinians. Using antiviral treatments reduces the risk of serious illness and preliminary data indicates treatment is associated with reduced risk of developing long-COVID.

PRESS RELEASE - In an ongoing effort to encourage increased awareness, understanding and recognition of the many contributions made by Deaf people across the state of North Carolina, Governor Roy Cooper has proclaimed September 2023 as Deaf Awareness Month.