NY DOH Press Releases 2026

Virtual Roundtable Promotes STI Prevention Treatment During Awareness Week

The New York State Department of Health hosted a virtual roundtable during STI Awareness Week (April 14-20, 2026) with experts from NYS, NYC, and community organizations to discuss STI prevention strategies, stigma reduction, and available resources. New 2024 data on chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis was added to the state's STI Dashboard. Panelists emphasized the importance of screening, open conversations with providers, and equitable access to sexual health services.

NY DOH Recognizes Black Maternal Health Week, Hosts Roundtable and Launches Social Media Campaign

The New York State Department of Health recognized Black Maternal Health Week (April 11-17) by hosting a roundtable discussion at Ancient Song Doula Services in Brooklyn with healthcare providers, community leaders, and policymakers to discuss critical issues affecting Black maternal health. The Department also launched a social media campaign, 'Healthy Mothers. Strong Communities,' to raise awareness about maternal health disparities and promote equitable health outcomes for Black mothers and birthing people across New York State.

State Landmarks Illuminated Blue for World Parkinson's Day

The New York State Department of Health announced that 16 state landmarks will be illuminated blue on the evening of April 11 in recognition of World Parkinson's Day. The landmarks include One World Trade Center, Niagara Falls, Grand Central Terminal, and other notable sites. Commissioner Dr. James McDonald encouraged individuals experiencing movement difficulties to consult healthcare providers for treatment options.

Sixteen Landmarks Illuminated Blue and Green for National Donate Life Day

NY DOH announced that 16 landmarks across New York State will be illuminated in blue and green on April 10, 2026, in honor of National Donate Life Blue & Green Day. The initiative aims to raise awareness about organ, eye, and tissue donor registration. In 2024, more than 50 percent of eligible New Yorkers joined the Donate Life Registry, now at 52.9 percent. The NY Living Donor Support Program, launched October 2025, has received 124 applications with a 100 percent acceptance rate and nearly $215,000 reimbursed to living donor applicants.

NY State Health Celebrates National Public Health Week

The New York State Department of Health celebrates National Public Health Week (April 6-12, 2026) with Governor Hochul's proclamation. The announcement highlights 2026 public health initiatives including proposed vaccine legislation to set state immunization standards, restructuring of the Essential Plan lowering income eligibility to 200% of the federal poverty line, and expanded scope of practice for certified medication assistants, physician assistants, and medical assistants.

Black Maternal Health Week Roundtable to Address Disparities in Brooklyn

NY State Department of Health announces a roundtable discussion on April 13, 2026 in Brooklyn to recognize Black Maternal Health Week. The event will bring together state and city health officials, maternal health practitioners, and community advocates to address ongoing disparities in maternal health outcomes for Black mothers and families across New York State.

Pedestrian Safety Awareness Campaign Launched by NY DOH

The New York State Department of Health announced a $2.5 million media campaign to raise awareness about pedestrian safety best practices for drivers and pedestrians. The campaign is conducted in partnership with the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee and the New York State Department of Transportation, responding to over 65,000 pedestrian injuries and 1,000 fatalities since 2020.

DMV Urges New Yorkers to Register as Life-Saving Organ Donors

The New York DMV has launched a public awareness campaign urging state residents to register as organ donors, highlighting that approximately 8,000 New Yorkers are currently awaiting organ transplants. The campaign notes that 52.9% of eligible state residents have registered as donors. This is an informational initiative rather than a regulatory mandate.

Governor Hochul Declares April Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Governor Hochul issued a proclamation declaring April 2026 as Sexual Assault Awareness Month in New York State. State landmarks including 1WTC, the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, and others will be illuminated in teal on April 1 and April 29. The FY27 Executive Budget proposes extending rape kit retention periods and legislation to prevent evidence destruction without survivor consent.

Waterbody-Specific Fish Consumption Advisories Updated

The New York State Department of Health updated fish consumption advisories for waterbodies statewide. For the first time in 50 years, the Department relaxed advisories for the Lower Hudson River due to declining PCB levels, allowing the general population to eat up to four meals per month of certain fish including striped bass. More restrictive advice was issued for other waters including Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, and several rivers due to PFOS contamination.

NY Health Launches Statewide Anti-Vaping Campaign for Youth

The New York State Department of Health has launched a statewide anti-vaping public awareness campaign targeting teens, young adults, and parents. The initiative, running through April 26, 2026, aims to educate on vaping risks and promote the 'DropTheVape' text support program for quitting nicotine products.

NY Landmarks Lit Purple for International Epilepsy Day

The New York State Department of Health announced that 16 state landmarks were lit purple on March 26, 2026, for International Epilepsy Day. This initiative honors the estimated 215,000 New Yorkers living with epilepsy and raises awareness for the condition.

NY DOH Announces New Mental Health Training for First Responders

The New York State Department of Health has released a new online training program for mental health professionals aimed at improving support for first responders. The training focuses on first responder culture, mental health challenges, and barriers to seeking treatment, and is available statewide.

NY DOH Update on Federal Approval to Preserve Health Coverage

The New York State Department of Health announced federal approval from CMS to transition back to Basic Health Program authority, preserving coverage for 1.3 million New Yorkers. Approximately 450,000 individuals will lose eligibility for the Essential Plan and transition to Qualified Health Plans starting July 1, 2026, due to federal funding changes.

NY DOH Seizes Over 28,500 lbs of Illicit Vape Products

New York State authorities, including the Department of Health and local law enforcement, seized over 28,500 pounds of illicit vape products linked to a major distributor, Ecto World. The operation targeted unlicensed distribution and sales across the state, with criminal charges to be pursued.

NY DOH Announces $20M for Abortion Health Care Services

The New York State Department of Health has announced a new $20 million funding opportunity for abortion health care services through the Supplemental Abortion Provider Support Fund. Letters have been issued to 22 potential awardees notifying them of their eligibility for these state grants.

NY DOH Statement on Federal Judge's Ruling in AAP v. ACIP Case

The New York State Department of Health issued a statement from Commissioner Dr. James McDonald regarding a federal judge's ruling in the American Academy of Pediatrics v. Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices case. The statement expresses encouragement regarding the acknowledgment of flaws in the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and reaffirms the Department's commitment to science-backed vaccine recommendations.

NY Health Urges Colorectal Cancer Screening for Adults Under 50

The New York State Department of Health is urging adults aged 45 and older to undergo colorectal cancer screening, as it is now a leading cause of cancer death for those under 50. The department highlights that screening can prevent or detect the cancer early, and aims to improve current screening rates.

NY Cybersecurity Regulations and Grants for Water Systems

New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced new cybersecurity regulations and $2.5 million in grants for the state's drinking water and wastewater systems. The regulations include mandatory training, incident reporting, and risk-based standards, with grants available for assessments and upgrades.

New York Private Well PFAS Testing and Rebate Pilot Program

New York State has launched a pilot program offering free PFAS testing and rebates for water treatment systems or connection to public water for private well owners in six counties. The program aims to address PFAS contamination in drinking water and is funded with $1.5 million per county.

Drowsy Driving Risk Warning Due to Daylight Saving Time

The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles has issued a warning to motorists about the increased risk of drowsy driving associated with the start of Daylight Saving Time. The notice advises drivers to be aware of potential fatigue and take precautions to ensure safety on the road.

New York Announces $10 Million for School-Based Dental Care

The New York State Department of Health announced $10 million to expand dental care services at school-based health centers. This funding will support dental service delivery, offset costs, cover staffing, purchase equipment, and expand service capacity for students across the state over five years.

Valatie Receives $5.5M State Grant for PFAS Treatment Facility

New York State has awarded a $5.5 million grant to the Village of Valatie to construct a PFAS treatment facility. This funding, part of a larger state investment in water quality, aims to protect drinking water and public health while managing costs for local ratepayers.

NY Health Launches Living Donor Support Program Campaign

The New York State Department of Health has launched a media campaign to promote its Living Donor Support Program. This program aims to reimburse eligible living organ donors for expenses incurred during the donation process, such as travel and lost wages, up to $14,000.

New York State Department of Health Celebrates 125 Years

The New York State Department of Health is celebrating its 125th anniversary on February 19, 2026. The notice highlights the department's historical achievements in protecting public health and advancing health equity for New Yorkers since its founding in 1901.

NY DOH Urges RSV Vaccinations Amid High Case Numbers

The New York State Department of Health is urging eligible residents to get vaccinated against RSV, as cases and hospitalizations remain high and exceed those for influenza and COVID-19 combined. The notice details vaccination recommendations for various age groups and risk factors, emphasizing the availability of immunizations.

Helen Hayes Hospital Updates Shabbos Room

Helen Hayes Hospital, a New York State Department of Health facility, has completed renovations to its Shabbos Room, enhancing the space for Jewish patients and families. The updated room offers improved comfort and functionality to support religious observance.