Alliance for Positive Health

For almost 40 years, the Alliance for Positive Health (formerly the AIDS Council of Northeastern New York) has been a leader in fighting the epidemic of HIV/AIDS serving 15 counties in northeastern New York. As a leader in testing and care coordination services for those living with HIV, their responsibility is to extend that expertise to those impacted by sexually transmitted diseases, opioid addiction, and associated health and mental heatlh challenges. SERVING 15 COUNTIES OF NORTHEASTERN NEW YORK - ALBANY, CLINTON, COLUMBIA, ESSEX, FRANKLIN, FULTON, GREENE, HAMILTON, MONTGOMERY, RENSSELAER, SARATOGA, SCHENECTADY, SCHOHARIE, WARREN, AND WASHINGTON COUNTIES. allianceforpositivehealth.org

Healthy Media Habits

📱 Is your child’s screen time crowding out other activities?

Make space for play, reading, rest, and family time by setting screen-free zones and turning off autoplay.

Healthy media habits start early!

Learn more from the American Academy of Pediatrics: aap.org/.../media-and-children.

WIC and Health Nutrition for Your Toddlers

WIC helps fuel your busy toddler’s adventures with fruit, veggies, beans, eggs, and other healthy foods. Across New York, kids under five are eating well and staying healthy with WIC. Visit health.ny.gov/prevention/nutrition/wic to see if WIC can help.

Project Lifesaver

The Fulton County Sheriff’s Department has Project Lifesaver, a search and rescue program. As seen in the graphic, the personal transmitter is about the size of a watch and emits a signal that helps to quickly locate an enrolled individual. The program is intended for children with developmental delays or diagnosed conditions such as Down Syndrome or Autism who are prone to escaping, as well as for Alzheimer’s patients. Project Lifesaver is free of charge to Fulton County residents but requires the transmitter battery be changed every 60 days. For more information, contact the Fulton County Sheriff’s Department at 518-736-2100.

Recall on Rheumacare Capsules

Handelnine Global Limited d/b/a Navafresh is voluntarily recalling Rheumacare Capsules by Virgo UAP Pharma Pvt. Ltd. In testing conducted by the Food and Drug Administration the product has been found to contain lead at levels up to 11,100 ppm, which are higher than permissible levels. Click on the link provided to see if your product is part of the recall. fda.gov/...recall-rheumacare-capsules-virgo-uap

Lead-Safe Renovations EPA

Homes built before 1978 are more likely to have lead-based paint. The federal government banned consumer use of lead-based paint in 1978, but it is still present in millions of homes. Common Renovation, Repair and Paint (RRP) activities that disturb lead-based paint (like sanding, cutting, replacing windows, and more) can create hazardous lead dust and chips which can be harmful to adults and children. Home RRP projects that create even a small amount of lead dust are enough to poison your child and put your family at risk.
youtube.com/watch?v=YnbH7crk-Us 
epa.gov/lead/lead-safe-renovations-diyers

The Fulton County Public Health App

Your health matters—and staying informed has never been easier! Download the Fulton County Public Health App to get updates, programs, and resources that help keep Fulton County strong and healthy.

apps.myocv.com/.../a34012095

Weatherization Workshop

Join Cornell Cooperative Extension for a FREE Weatherization Workshop and meal at the Johnstown Public Library on Tuesday, February 24 at 1:30pm.

Learn how to save energy, lower your bills, and receive a free home energy savings kit.

Follow the link to register:
pub.cce.cornell.edu/.../main/events_landing

Johnstown Library Blood Drive

Safe blood saves lives. A single donation can help save up to three lives. Donate at Johnstown Public Library’s blood drive on Thursday, February 19 from 1pm-5pm. 

Click the link to make your appointment: redcrossblood.org/give

End the Stigma of Addiction

If you or someone you care about is struggling, Fidelis Care can help. Visit fideliscare.org to learn more about their programs for those suffering with a substance use disorder.

Lead Abatement Training

Free Lead abatement worker initial training. The EPA Lead Abatement Worker training is a 2-day (16-hour) course that teaches on-site workers about the dangers of lead, the roles and responsibilities of a worker, local, State and Federal regulations, and safe lead abatement methods. Abatement is any set of measures designed to permanently eliminate lead-based paint hazards.

Register here: pub.cce.cornell.edu/.../events.

The Importance of Prevention

Knowing how to prevent and control the spread of STIs/HIV and unplanned pregnancies will help_ you talk openly with your sexual partner(s) and be in control of your sexual health. Click the link below to learn more about your prevention options.

campaigns.health.ny.gov/SexualHealth/PreventionAndControl

Free EPA Lead Trainings

FREE EPA Lead Trainings. EPA Certified Renovator Class Training Schedule for February, 2026. EPA certification is federally mandated when projects disturb lead-based paint in a pre-1978 home or residential unit and child-occupied facilities. Property owners, landlords, and contractors throughout New York State performing lead-safe repairs must be EPA Certified in Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) and follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination. Trainings to become EPA RRP certified are offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension Albany County, an EPA accredited training provider. See the attached February 2026 EPA Lead Training Flyer or visit Cornell Cooperative Extension Albany County for a current schedule of free, local trainings to learn lead-safe work practices and help reduce childhood lead poisoning. Participants must pre-register. Class size is limited. All trainings are free.
Register Here.

Milk and Cookies Support Group for Moms

Are you looking for a place to meet other moms in a relaxed and welcoming environment, while enjoying fresh-baked cookies?

Nathan Littauer Hospital is hosting “Milk and Cookies”, a Moms Support Group, at the Nathan Littauer Auditorium. The group is open to all mothers’, including pregnant and expecting moms, whether you’re new to motherhood or have years of experience. Each session will be attended by a NLH Birthing Center RN who can offer guidance and support for every stage of motherhood. Whether you’re looking to meet other local moms, share stories and struggles or just get out of the house --- “Milk and Cookies” is here for you.

The Health Risks of Vaping

Vaping puts health at risk. Nicotine in e-cigarettes is highly addictive and especially harmful for youth. Let’s work together in Fulton County to prevent vaping and support healthier choices. https://teen.smokefree.gov/quit-vaping

FACE Training – Testing Accommodations

Free Webinar: Testing Accommodations for Students with Disabilities: For Educators

For anyone who has or interacts with children with Individualized Service Plans (IEP)!

Learn about the decision making process, accommodation types, and documents that pertain to having testing accommodations put into place.

You can join on Febuary 24, 2026 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Click the link to register:
mylearningplan.com/WebReg/...

Maternal Heart Health Awareness

February is Heart Health Awareness month!

A healthy heart is the best start for a healthy pregnancy and newborn. During pregnancy, your heart is working harder than usual to pump blood to you and your baby. The extra stress can cause new problems to emerge during pregnancy, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or preeclampsia. These problems can happen to you during pregnancy, in labor and delivery -- even up to a year after your child is born.

The good news is that high blood pressure and other conditions that put stress on the heart during pregnancy are preventable and treatable. The first step is getting early prenatal care and knowing your risk factors.

For more information on risk factors, prevention and care visit:
cdc.gov/.../high-blood-pressure-during-pregnancy.html 
nhlbi.nih.gov/.../heart-health-and-pregnancy.

Indoor Walking Programs in Fulton County

Indoor walking/swimming is back at the Gloversville, Johnstown, and Mayfield school districts. They are a great way to stay active during the winter months. Indoor walking/swimming for all districts will only take place on days when school is in session and will be cancelled when district activities/school is also cancelled.


For Gloversville High School Indoor Walking Program:
• Takes place from November 3, 2025 – TBD, on Mondays – Thursdays from 5:30pm - 7:30pm.
• For adults that are 18 years and older.
• Participants must sign in and out at the entrance at the main office. 


For the GJSD Indoor Walking Program:
• Takes place from December 1, 2025 – April 4, 2026, on Mondays – Thursdays from 6:00pm - 8:00 pm at Warren St. Elementary School.
• Use the main entrance and sign in with the school attendant present.
• Closed February 16, 2026 – February 19, 2026.

For the GJSD Indoor Swimming Program:
• Takes place from December 6, 2025 – TBD, on Saturdays from 9:00am - 11:00am at Johnstown High School. 
• Use the back entrance by the pool/bus loop and sign in with the school attendant present.
• Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Toddlers and younger must wear swimming diapers in the pool. You are allowed to bring in your own swimming aides (swimmies and other devices that are intended to help you stay afloat and swim). Pool floats are prohibited.


For the Mayfield Elementary School Indoor Walking Program:
• Takes place from January 5, 2026 – TBD, on Mondays – Fridays from 5:00pm - 8:00pm.
• For adults that are 18 years and older. Those who are younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult who is 18 years and older. 
• Participants must sign in and out everytime they walk. 
• Walkers must sign an insurance waiver at their first visit to the program that will be held on file. Insurance waivers will be available at the front door or can be accessed here: Waiver-fillable-PDF. To digitally sign the online waiver: please download first, complete and sign all fillable fields, and email to: anastasia.stacie@mayfieldcsd.org.

Spring Planning and Zoning Training

The Planning Boards of Fulton and Montgomery County are holding their annual Spring Planning and Zoning Training on March 24, 2026. Use the link below to register for free today.

Register Here: Spring Planning and Zoning Training Registration

Drop The Vape

Think vaping is safer than smoking? It’s not. Want to Quit? Sign up for texts at DropTheVape.org for free, confidential help. nysmokefree.com/drop-the-vape

February is Prenatal Infection Prevention Month

A healthy pregnancy starts with prevention! Maternal infections are easily passed along from mother to baby during pregnany and birth. These bacterial, viral or fungal infections can cause serious health risks to a growing fetus, as well as miscarriage and preterm labor.

The good news is that prenatal infections can be prevented by:
Getting vaccinated
Practicing good hand hygiene and dental care
Enjoying a healthy diet and
Seeking regular prenatal care 
Learn more about preventing prenatal infections and supporting your baby during pregnancy here:
acog.org/.../preventing-infections-in-pregnancy
acog.org/womens-health/pregnancy

RSV Vaccines for Infants

RSV can cause severe illness in newborns. Antibody immunizations can help protect against RSV.

Learn more: cdc.gov/.../protect-infants.html 

Lead Prevention Pilot Program

Leading In Lead Prevention Pilot Program grant funding may be available for lead based paint remediation and abatement for eligible properties. Scan the QR code, call or email Better Community Neighborhoods Inc. (BCNI) to learn more. bcnihousing.org

SUNY Reconnect - Free Associates Degrees for Adult Learners

SUNY Reconnect is helping advance the careers of adults in New York by offering free associates degrees to those who:
• Are a New York State resident
• Are 25-55 years old
• Do not have a college degree

Visit suny.edu/communitycollege/free-cc/ to learn about the available programs near you.

Free EPA Lead Trainings

FREE EPA Lead Trainings. EPA Certified Renovator Class Training Schedule for February, 2026. EPA certification is federally mandated when projects disturb lead-based paint in a pre-1978 home or residential unit and child-occupied facilities. Property owners, landlords, and contractors throughout New York State performing lead-safe repairs must be EPA Certified in Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) and follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination. Trainings to become EPA RRP certified are offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension Albany County, an EPA accredited training provider. See the attached February 2026 EPA Lead Training Flyer or visit Cornell Cooperative Extension Albany County for a current schedule of free, local trainings to learn lead-safe work practices and help reduce childhood lead poisoning. Participants must pre-register. Class size is limited. All trainings are free.
Register Here.

Steps to Fight Respiratory Viruses

Flu, RSV, COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses can quickly become life threatening conditions. The first steps to protecting yourself and your family are:
1. Stay up-to-date on vaccines
2. Stop the spread by:
  • washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth,
  • cough and sneeze into a tissue,
  • If your sick, STAY HOME
If you or someone you love does get sick, seek medical attention early, before the condition becomes serious. Know when to see a doctor:
  • A fever that doesn’t go down or go away
  • A cough that lasts more than 2-3 weeks
  • Painful swallowing (more than a sore throat)
  • An earache, persistent headache or neck pain
  • Symptoms that last more than 10 days or get worse instead of better
  • Persistent or severe vomiting and or diarrhea
  • Confusion or altered mental status (unable to respond correctly to simple questions)

For more information:
health.ny.gov/diseases/.../understanding
health.ny.gov/.../respiratory_viruses/
vaccines.gov

Weatherization Workshop

Join Cornell Cooperative Extension for a FREE Weatherization Workshop and meal at the Johnstown Public Library on Tuesday, February 24 at 1:30pm.

Learn how to save energy, lower your bills, and receive a free home energy savings kit.

Follow the link to register:
pub.cce.cornell.edu/.../main/events_landing

Stroke Treatment Can't Wait

Stroke occurs in the brain, but it can affect the entire body. It is important to quickly assess and treat stroke to reduce long-term disability.

Learn more at: ninds.nih.gov/.../stroke/assess-and-treat #KnowStroke #NINDS

Additional Recall on Cookware Products

Two additional cookware products that may leach lead into food when used for cooking or food storage have been added to the table in the link below. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning retailers and consumers not to sell or use certain imported cookware that may leach significant levels of lead (Pb) into food. Some types of imported cookware products made from aluminum, brass, and aluminum alloys known as Hindalium/Hindolium or Indalium/Indolium have been tested by FDA and state partners, and have demonstrated the potential to leach lead under conditions designed to mimic their use in contact with food. Young children, women of child-bearing age, and those who are breastfeeding may be at higher risk for potential adverse events after eating food cooked using these products. fda.gov/.../fda-issues-warning-about-imported

Free Mammograms

St. Mary’s Breast Center is performing free mammograms for eligible patients on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 from 3pm-5pm.

Uninsured patients between the ages of 40-64 are eligible.

Please call Cancer Services for more information 518-841-3726.

Sleep Strategies for Children Diagnosed with Autism

Children diagnosed with Autism often have sleep difficulties, Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) is offering a webinar on this topic, free to NYS residents. Offered on February 12, 2026 from 6pm to 7:30p, it is an ideal opportunity for parents to learn strategies to help address challenges. Registration is required, do so here:
https://www.albany.edu/.../family-training-series

The Fulton County Public Health App

Your health matters—and staying informed has never been easier! Download the Fulton County Public Health App to get updates, programs, and resources that help keep Fulton County strong and healthy.

apps.myocv.com/.../a34012095

Brain Health Habit Builder

Support your brain health! Your daily habits matter when it comes to brain health. The Alzheimer’s Association’s Brain Health Habit Builder is a free, easy tool that helps you assess your current habits and identify small, realistic steps to support your brain over time.

Learn more and get started here: https://www.alz.org/.../brain.../brain-health-habit-builder

Respiratory Virus Season

Flu, COVID-19, RSV and other respiratory illnesses can be serious. The first step to protect yourself and your family is to be up to date on vaccinations. Learn about vaccines and the protection they offer everyone. health.ny.gov/.../frequently_asked_questions.htm.

Live Webinar: The 360 Thinking Model

SUNY Old Westbury is offering a Free evening webinar. The speaker, Sarah Ward, as shown in the photo, will discuss her 360 Thinking Executive Function Program, which teaches strategies to support students in developing self regulation and manage impulses. Register at:
nysrcasd.org/events/1547/

Warnings About Lead in Imported Cookware

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning retailers and consumers not to sell or use certain imported cookware that may leach significant levels of lead (Pb) into food. Some types of imported cookware products made from aluminum, brass, and aluminum alloys known as Hindalium/Hindolium or Indalium/Indolium have been tested by FDA and state partners, and have demonstrated the potential to leach lead under conditions designed to mimic their use in contact with food. Young children, women of child-bearing age, and those who are breastfeeding may be at higher risk for potential adverse events after eating food cooked using these products. Click the link for specifics items of concern. FDA Issues Warning About Imported Cookware That May Leach Lead: August 2025 | FDA

Coats in Car Seats

The days are getting colder and it’s time to make sure infant’s and young children are safe and warm while riding in the car. Bulky puffy jackets cause loose fitting car seat harnesses, putting your child at risk of injury during a car crash. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests doing the following to keep your child car seat safe and warm this winter:
▪ Dress your child in thin layers, like thermals and sweaters with a thin fleece jacket
▪ Use the child's coat or blanket over the car seat harness, not under the harness
▪ Tighten and check the car seat harness; if you can pinch the straps, then they need to be tightened
▪ Use a car seat cover only if it doesn’t have a layer under the body; nothing bulky under the baby

For more winter car seat safety tips go to:
healthychildren.org/.../Winter-Car-Seat-Safety-Tips.aspx 
youtube.com/watch?v=7xBMbE4SY2Q (Car Seat Mishap #3 - Improper Fit) 

Sodium and Your Health

Eating too much sodium, which is the primary ingredient in salt, can raise your blood pressure, as well as your risk of heart attack and stroke. Start by checking labels and choosing fresh fruits and vegetables. Visit: health.ny.gov/prevention/nutrition/sodium_reduction

Recall on Rheumacare Capsules

Handelnine Global Limited d/b/a Navafresh is voluntarily recalling Rheumacare Capsules by Virgo UAP Pharma Pvt. Ltd. In testing conducted by the Food and Drug Administration the product has been found to contain lead at levels up to 11,100 ppm, which are higher than permissible levels. Click on the link provided to see if your product is part of the recall. fda.gov/...recall-rheumacare-capsules-virgo-uap

Fulton County Food Resource Map

🍎 Need help finding food resources in Fulton County?

We’ve created an interactive map showing local food pantries and community meal sites to make it easier for residents to find support.

Click the link to explore locations, hours, and contact information near you: google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1SaoUtT0iXI3S9MGlz5gsZm12m2vGhCg
    *Dates, times, and locations of sites are subject to change. Call the location with any questions.*

Know the Signs of a Stroke

Stroke is a leading cause of death and serious, long-term disability in the United States. Getting help quickly can save lives. Do you know the signs of stroke? Act FAST. 

• Face drooping
• Arm weakness
• Speech difficulty
• Time to call 911
Learn more here: ninds.nih.gov/health-information/stroke/signs-and-symptoms #KnowStroke

Fans Don't Let Fans Drive Drunk

Don’t plan to DRINK 🍻 without a plan to get home SAFELY 🔑 🏠. Your life and the lives of others are at risk every time a driver gets behind the wheel after drinking.

Indoor Walking Programs in Fulton County

Indoor walking/swimming is back at the Gloversville, Johnstown, and Mayfield school districts. They are a great way to stay active during the winter months. Indoor walking/swimming for all districts will only take place on days when school is in session and will be cancelled when district activities/school is also cancelled.


For Gloversville High School Indoor Walking Program:
• Takes place from November 3, 2025 – TBD, on Mondays – Thursdays from 5:30pm - 7:30pm.
• For adults that are 18 years and older.
• Participants must sign in and out at the entrance at the main office. 


For the GJSD Indoor Walking Program:
• Takes place from December 1, 2025 – April 4, 2026, on Mondays – Thursdays from 6:00pm - 8:00 pm at Warren St. Elementary School.
• Use the main entrance and sign in with the school attendant present.
• Closed February 16, 2026 – February 19, 2026.

For the GJSD Indoor Swimming Program:
• Takes place from December 6, 2025 – TBD, on Saturdays from 9:00am - 11:00am at Johnstown High School. 
• Use the back entrance by the pool/bus loop and sign in with the school attendant present.
• Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Toddlers and younger must wear swimming diapers in the pool. You are allowed to bring in your own swimming aides (swimmies and other devices that are intended to help you stay afloat and swim). Pool floats are prohibited.


For the Mayfield Elementary School Indoor Walking Program:
• Takes place from January 5, 2026 – TBD, on Mondays – Fridays from 5:00pm - 8:00pm.
• For adults that are 18 years and older. Those who are younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult who is 18 years and older. 
• Participants must sign in and out everytime they walk. 
• Walkers must sign an insurance waiver at their first visit to the program that will be held on file. Insurance waivers will be available at the front door or can be accessed here: Waiver-fillable-PDF. To digitally sign the online waiver: please download first, complete and sign all fillable fields, and email to: anastasia.stacie@mayfieldcsd.org.