This guest column was written by Delaware Secretary of Education Mark A. Holodick and Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) Secretary Josette D. Manning.

As the new school year gets underway, now is the time to remind local communities that continuing to protect ourselves against influenza, COVID-19, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and other infectious diseases is a powerful way to also support Delaware students and school staff. The flu, COVID, and RSV are dangerous but preventable respiratory illnesses that can spread quickly, especially in close-knit settings. A single infected person has the potential to set off a chain reaction that can disrupt schools and communities, impacting everyone from students to educators, nutrition staff, school bus drivers, security personnel, their families and more.

Simple, safe, and effective prevention helps keep pathogens out of classrooms. Healthy lifestyle choices boost public immunity. To help reduce school disruptions this year, we encourage everyone to:

• Get sufficient sleep, eat nutritious meals, practice good oral hygiene, and get enough physical activity to keep our bodies healthy.
• Stay home when sick and know your school and work return policies.
• Schedule annual well visit appointments and stay up to date on routine vaccinations, which includes flu and COVID-19 vaccines.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, dry hands with a paper towel, and use the paper towel to turn off the faucet.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or bent arm. Throw the tissue away without touching the bin.
• Keep hands away from our noses, mouths, and eyes.
• Routinely clean surfaces.
• Learn more about viral signs and symptoms.
• Have a plan in place for if you are exposed or become ill.

For flu: Experts predict this year’s flu season will start as early as September or October. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the flu vaccine provided “substantial” protection for all age groups last year. School-age children are at higher risk of serious complications from the flu, so consider vaccines early in the fall. Everyone 6 months of age and older is eligible for vaccines, unless they have a specific contraindication.

For COVID-19: The public health emergency due to COVID-19 has ended, but the virus still requires attention. Cases may increase among different locations and populations at various times. As needed, consider wearing masks in crowded places, if cases rise, or if you are at higher risk for illness.  Take a COVID-19 test immediately if you have symptoms or test five days after exposure to someone with COVID-19. Those who test positive for COVID-19 should follow CDC isolation guidance. The CDC is now recommending everyone ages 6 months and older get the newly updated 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine to help lower the risk of severe illness, hospitalization or death from the coronavirus. These updated vaccines are expected to provide protection against currently circulating variants and will be available soon. Increased protection is especially important for those who are high risk, elderly, those in nursing homes, and those who are pregnant, immunocompromised or have lung and heart conditions.

For RSV: Cases of RSV tend to rise from fall to spring. RSV typically causes cold-like symptoms but can sometimes be severe, especially in infants and older adults. In May, the first RSV vaccine was approved for those 60 and older. Those most at-risk for RSV complications are children under age 2, adults over 60, and those who are immunocompromised or with a lung or heart condition.

Deciding to get vaccinated in the early start of the K-12 school year is a proactive choice that demonstrates a commitment to the health of the entire school community. For individuals and families who may have concerns regarding vaccine safety and efficacy, it is important to speak with health care professionals and rely on reputable sources for information.

Classroom environments must remain places where students and school staff can work, learn, and thrive without illness. We encourage all members of school communities to make informed decisions that prioritize their well-being as well as the well-being of their local schools. Together, we can all help lay the groundwork for a strong, successful academic year ahead.

Learn more:

• https://coronavirus.delaware.gov/ – Get current Delaware COVID data, testing, and vaccine information.
• https://coronavirus.delaware.gov/vaccine/ – Find FREE Covid-19 vaccinations, boosters and third doses.
• https://coronavirus.delaware.gov/fight-the-flu/ – Learn more about flu and RSV prevention.

Media contact: Alison May, alison.may@doe.k12.de.us, 302-735-4006

DOVER, DE (May 21, 2022) – The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) reports an increase in COVID-19 cases since the previous monthly COVID-19 update released on April 22, 2022. While COVID-19 cases are increasing in Delaware, hospitalizations and deaths remain significantly lower when compared to the winter surge. DPH continues to encourage Delawareans to get tested if they exhibit symptoms of COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone who tested positive. Although there are no Delaware or federal government mask mandates, individuals are encouraged to mask in public indoor areas in Delaware. Delawareans are also reminded to get boosted to increase their individual protection against COVID-19. Staying up to date with your vaccinations is the best way to ensure your body is prepared to fight against severe cases of COVID-19.

You are eligible for a booster dose if you:

• Are 5+ and it has been 5 months after your second dose of Pfizer
• Are 18+ and it has been 5 months after second dose of Moderna
• Are 18+ and it has been 2 months since your initial dose of Johnson & Johnson
• Qualified for an “additional/fourth” dose of Pfizer or Moderna because you have certain immunocompromising conditions or are age 50 and older. You can get your booster (fourth) dose 6 months after receiving your additional/third dose
• Follow https://coronavirus.delaware.gov/vaccine/where-can-i-get-my-vaccine/#publichealth for locations to receive booster shots

COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations:

• Total positive cases since March 11, 2020: 271,294
• 7-day daily average of new positive cases: 574.7, a difference of 417.6 average new positive cases reported since April 22, 2022
• 7-day daily average for the percentage of total positive tests: 19.0 percentage points, a difference of 11.4 percentage points reported since April 22, 2022
• Hospitalizations: 127, current hospitalizations; critically ill: 13
• Total COVID-19 deaths: 2,939 an increase of 43 since last month
• Total COVID-19 deaths reported since April 22, 2022: 43 deaths; 9 regularly reported deaths, 34 deaths from a review of vital statistics

COVID-19 Vaccinations:  

• Total number of doses administered in Delaware: 1,805,255 
• Percentage of Delawareans 5+ who are fully vaccinated (CDC data): 73.6% 
• Percentage of Delawareans 12+ who are fully vaccinated (CDC data): 77.8%  
• Percentage of Delawareans 18+ who are fully vaccinated (CDC data): 79.3% 
• Percent of Delawareans who are fully vaccinated (CDC data): 69.5%  

All qualifying Delawareans should get vaccinated. For a location near you, visit de.gov/getmyvaccine. Delaware’s latest COVID-19 vaccination statistics can be found under the Vaccine Tracker dashboard at de.gov/healthycommunity.  

COVID-19 Case Vaccination Status Report:  

The following reports capture a weekly breakdown of non-boosted cases, deaths, and hospitalizations for the time frame of May 09 – May 15, 2022. 

Long-term Care Statistics:  

As of Thursday, May 19, 2022, there have been a total of 3,890 positive COVID-19 cases involving long-term care residents, and 956 residents of Delaware long-term care facilities have died from complications related to COVID-19.  

Flu Update: 

DPH reminds the public that flu season is not over.  There were 126 laboratory-confirmed cases reported the week of May 8-May 14. As of May 20, 2022, the most recent date for which flu statistics are available. There have been 2,341 laboratory-confirmed cases for the current season, an increase of 633 since April 22, 2022. The cases involved 1,103 individuals from New Castle County, 518 from Kent County and 720 from Sussex County. This number reflects only the number of lab-confirmed cases; the actual number of cases circulating statewide is likely higher as not all people with the flu seek treatment, and many cases are diagnosed through rapid test kits in a provider’s office versus a lab. There may be technical discrepancies in reporting numbers week to week due to retroactive reporting of cases.

All individuals 6 months and older may still get vaccinated against the flu if they haven’t already. Flu vaccines are available at pharmacies (including those in grocery stores), participating medical provider offices, Federally Qualified Health Centers (for their patients), as well as Division of Public Health clinics. DPH is also advising the public that the flu vaccine can be administered at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine. 

For the latest information on the flu in Delaware, visit flu.delaware.gov. 

Resources:  

Individuals with general questions about COVID-19 should call Delaware 2-1-1, individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing can text their ZIP code to 898-211, or email delaware211@uwde.org. Hours of operation are:  

Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.  

Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  

Medically related questions regarding testing, symptoms, and health-related guidance can be submitted by email at DPHCall@delaware.gov.  

Delawareans 18 or older are encouraged to download COVID Alert DE, Delaware’s free exposure notification app to help protect your neighbors while ensuring your privacy. Download on the App Store or Google Play.  

DPH will continue to update the public as more information becomes available. For the latest on Delaware’s response, go to de.gov/coronavirus.    

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Anyone who is deaf, hard of hearing, Deaf-Blind or speech disabled can contact DPH by dialing 711 first using specialized devices (i.e., TTY, TeleBraille, voice devices). The 711 service is free and to learn more about how it works, please visit delawarerelay.com. 

The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.

DOVER, DE (March 25, 2022) – The Division of Public Health (DPH) is providing an update on COVID-19 statistics in Delaware, as of Thursday, March 24, 2022. As a result of declining COVID-19 cases, DPH is changing the frequency of these data releases from weekly to monthly.  The next data release will be April 22.  DPH will issue releases prior to that date with any important situational updates.  Data will continue to be updated daily on the My Health Community data portal – de.gov/healthycommunity. Additionally, DPH is issuing the following updates regarding testing and vaccinations in Delaware.

Changes in Federal Program May Now Impact Vaccinations for Uninsured

Last week, the U.S. Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) announced that the HRSA COVID-19 Uninsured Program (UIP) would stop accepting claims for testing and treatment of COVID-19 due to a lack of sufficient funds. That change took effect earlier this week. Now the program will no longer reimburse providers for vaccinating uninsured individuals as of 11:59 p.m. on April 5, 2022. These changes may result in some COVID-19 testing and vaccine providers deciding not to offer free services to uninsured individuals. However, free testing and vaccination options remain available for those without insurance in Delaware.  Those without insurance can still access free COVID-19 testing and vaccinations at Division of Public Health clinics. Those who have insurance are encouraged to seek testing and vaccinations at locations outside of DPH.  For a list of testing locations statewide visit de.gov/gettested. For a list of vaccination sites, visit de.gov/getmyvaccine. You are encouraged to contact the site in advance to verify insurance requirements.

DPH Standing Vaccine Sites to Close After March 31

DPH opened four standing vaccine sites statewide to accommodate large numbers of individuals who wanted to get a COVID-19 vaccine. Due to declining vaccination numbers at the sites, vaccine administration activities will shift to the DPH Clinics.  After March 31, the following sites will no longer offer vaccinations. Testing at these sites by Curative is also in the process of moving to other locations. You should confirm where your Curative testing will take place prior to going.

• Blue Hen Corporate Center: 655 S. Bay Road, Dover, DE 19901
• Georgetown Plaza: 19 Georgetown Plaza, Georgetown, DE 19947
• Canby Park: 1920 Maryland Ave., Wilmington, DE 19805
• University Plaza, 256 Chapman Road, Suite 100, Newark, DE 19702

COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations:

• Total positive cases since March 11, 2020: 259,185
• 7-day average of new positive cases: 63.0, a decrease of 0.1 average new positive cases from last week.
• 7-day average for the percentage of total positive tests: 3.2%, an increase of 0.3 percentage points from last week.
• Hospitalizations: 35, a decrease of 11 from last week; critically ill: 2, a decrease of 3 critically ill case from last week.
• Total COVID-19 deaths: 2,837
• Total COVID-19 deaths reported since last week: 4, with another 21 coming from a review of Vital Statistics.

COVID-19 Vaccinations:

• Total number of doses administered in Delaware: 1,707,244
• Percentage of Delawareans 5+ who are fully vaccinated (CDC data): 72.3%
• Percentage of Delawareans 12+ who are fully vaccinated (CDC data): 76.5%
• Percentage of Delawareans 18+ who are fully vaccinated (CDC data): 78%
• Percent of Delawareans who are fully vaccinated (CDC data): 68.2%

All qualifying Delawareans should get vaccinated. For a location near you, visit de.gov/getmyvaccine. Delaware’s latest COVID-19 vaccination statistics can be found under the Vaccine Tracker dashboard at de.gov/healthycommunity.

COVID-19 Case Vaccination Status Report:  

The following reports capture a weekly breakdown of non-boosted cases, deaths, and hospitalizations for the time frame for March 14 – March 20, 2022.

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Long-term Care Statistics:

As of Thursday, March 24, there have been a total of 3,683 positive COVID-19 cases involving long-term care residents, and 931 residents of Delaware long-term care facilities have died from complications related to COVID-19.

Flu Update:

DPH reminds the public that flu season is not over.  There were 104 laboratory-confirmed cases reported the week of March 14-March 21. As of March 25, 2022, the most recent date for which flu statistics are available, there have been 901 laboratory-confirmed cases for the current season. The cases involved 521 individuals from New Castle County, 143 from Kent County and 237 from Sussex County. This number reflects only the number of lab-confirmed cases; the actual number of cases circulating statewide is likely higher as not all people with the flu seek treatment, and many cases are diagnosed through rapid test kits in a provider’s office versus a lab. There may be technical discrepancies of reporting numbers week to week due to retroactive reporting of cases.

All individuals 6 months and older may still get vaccinated against the flu if they haven’t already. Flu vaccines are available at pharmacies (including those in grocery stores), participating medical provider offices, Federally Qualified Health Centers (for their patients), as well as Division of Public Health clinics. DPH is also advising the public that the flu vaccine can be administered at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine.

For the latest information on the flu in Delaware, visit flu.delaware.gov.

Resources:

Individuals with general questions about COVID-19 should call Delaware 2-1-1, individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing can text their ZIP code to 898-211, or email delaware211@uwde.org. Hours of operation are:

Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Medically related questions regarding testing, symptoms, and health-related guidance can be submitted by email at DPHCall@delaware.gov.

Delawareans 18 or older are encouraged to download COVID Alert DE, Delaware’s free exposure notification app to help protect your neighbors while ensuring your privacy. Download on the App Store or Google Play.

DPH will continue to update the public as more information becomes available. For the latest on Delaware’s response, go to de.gov/coronavirus.

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Anyone who is deaf, hard of hearing, Deaf-Blind or speech disabled can contact DPH by dialing 711 first using specialized devices (i.e., TTY, TeleBraille, voice devices). The 711 service is free and to learn more about how it works, please visit delawarerelay.com.

The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.

DOVER — Influenza continues to significantly impact Delaware for the 216-2017 flu season. The Division of Public Health (DPH) announced today the fourth and fifth flu-related fatalities in Delaware for the current season, as well as a continued sharp increase in cases for those ages 0 – 24.

Both of the deceased individuals were elderly, and had multiple underlying health conditions in addition to being infected with influenza. The first week of February, an 86-year-old Kent County man, residing in a nursing home, passed away after being transported to the hospital. Last week, a 90-year-old New Castle County man who lived at home passed away. He had also been transported to the hospital as a result of his illness. Both men were infected with Influenza A.

The number of lab-confirmed flu cases this season is significantly higher than last year at this time. As of the week ending Feb. 11, there have been 1,296 lab-confirmed cases in Delaware with 263 requiring hospitalization. In comparison, at the same time last year, there were 58 lab-confirmed flu cases statewide with 10 requiring hospitalization. The 2015-2016 season saw an unusually late peak in flu activity, which generally occurs between December and February. The first flu-related death in Delaware for the 2015-2016 season occurred on March 14, 2016.

Of the 1,296 cases, 772 infected individuals are from New Castle County, 321 from Kent County, and 203 from Sussex County. These numbers reflect lab-confirmed cases and the actual number of flu cases in Delaware is likely much higher.

Of the lab-confirmed cases, 224 individuals are 65 years of age or older. Of the 263 individuals hospitalized so far this flu season, 142 (54 percent) have been 65 or older. While it affects those of all ages, the flu virus is more likely to cause fatalities in the elderly. All five victims who have died from flu-related illnesses this season were elderly individuals (65 years old or older) with underlying health conditions.

Persons in the 0 to 24-year-old age group are also being hit particularly hard this flu season. Of the season’s lab-confirmed flu cases, 704 are in this age group or 54 percent of all cases.

“This year’s flu numbers reinforce the unpredictability of influenza,” said Department of Health and Social Services Secretary Dr. Kara Odom Walker. “Given that we see such wide variation almost every year, taking all the steps to prevent the flu is vital. Getting vaccinated, washing hands, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when ill can protect you and your loved ones.”

DPH is still advising that persons with emerging flu symptoms should call — not visit — their medical providers, who may be able to prescribe anti-viral medication. Flu symptoms can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue.

“Flu is not a disease to be taken lightly,” said DPH Director Dr. Karyl Rattay. “If someone has underlying health conditions, is pregnant or has a young child at home who is ill, call your doctor immediately if you have flu-like symptoms.”

DPH recommends these actions to protect seniors and vulnerable populations, including the very young, pregnant women, and those who recently gave birth, and people with underlying medical conditions, such as lung disease, heart disease, diabetes, and individuals with weak immune systems:

• If you are receiving treatment in a long-term care facility or in-home care, ask if the staff is vaccinated against the flu and, if not, the staff person should wear a mask at all times.
• Visits at home or in a facility should be limited if the visitor is under age 16, or has the flu or is at risk of exposure to the flu. The illness can be transmitted prior to someone showing symptoms.
• If you are living with a senior and a family member contracts the flu, keep the two separate as much as possible and ensure everyone in the home follows sanitary precautions.
• Wash hands frequently with soap or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers, especially after you cough, sneeze, or touch your face.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and dispose of the tissue immediately. If a tissue is not available, cough or sneeze into your inner elbow. Droplets from a sneeze can travel up to six feet.
• Stay home when sick and do not return to work or school until 24 hours after a fever is gone.
• Ensure all your loved ones are vaccinated against the illness. While this year’s vaccine may offer limited protection against one of the flu strains, it does protect well against the other two to three strains of flu. In addition, the vaccination can help make the illness milder and prevent the illnesses due to the other strains circulating in the community. Vaccines are available from DPH clinics, physicians, pharmacies, and many grocery stores.

Public Health officials encourage anyone, 6 months of age and older, who has not yet been vaccinated against the flu to do so as soon as possible. DPH continues to offer the vaccine at four State Service Centers. Information for these sites can be found at http://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/fluclinics.html.

For more information on influenza prevention, diagnosis and treatment, call the Division of Public Health at 800-282-8672 or visit flu.delaware.gov.

A person who is deaf, hard-of-hearing, deaf-blind or speech-disabled can call the DPH phone number above by using TTY services. Dial 7-1-1 or 800-232-5460 to type your conversation to a relay operator, who reads your conversation to a hearing person at DPH. The relay operator types the hearing person’s spoken words back to the TTY user. To learn more about TTY availability in Delaware, visit http://delawarerelay.com.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations. DPH, a division of DHSS, urges Delawareans to make healthier choices with the 5-2-1 Almost None campaign: eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables each day, have no more than 2 hours of recreational screen time each day (includes TV, computer, gaming), get 1 or more hours of physical activity each day, and drink almost no sugary beverages.

DOVER, DE – Today, Delaware’s Division of Public Health (DPH) announced the state’s first laboratory-confirmed case of influenza for the 2016-2017 flu season. The case involves a 27-year-old Kent County man who was not hospitalized. There are two main types of influenza (flu) virus – types A and B – that routinely spread in people and are responsible for seasonal flu outbreaks each year. Delaware’s first case is an influenza A strain.

DPH made the announcement during the press event portion of a drive-thru flu clinic held in Dover, which served as the official kickoff of its 2016-2017 flu season prevention efforts. The free drive-thru flu clinic was conducted outside of the Blue Hen Corporate Center in Dover. It was the first DPH drive-thru flu clinic in Kent County, and is expected to be the largest. DPH nursing staff, joined by Bayhealth nurses, administered intramuscular flu vaccines. Local radio station Eagle 97.7 provided entertainment.

Following prepared remarks Governor Jack Markell received his last flu shot as Governor, from DPH Director Dr. Karyl Rattay. Dr. Rattay and Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) Secretary Rita Landgraf also received their flu shots. Governor Markell urged all Delawareans 6 months of age and older to get vaccinated soon if they have not yet done so.

“Getting your annual vaccination is easy and it’s the single most important step every Delawarean should take right now to be prepared for cold and flu season,” Governor Markell said. “The evidence is clear that the benefits received from the flu shot saves lives, especially among our vulnerable residents, protects our workforce, and reduces costs across our healthcare system.”

The flu clinic, which provides vaccines to anyone ages 13 and older, also served as a preparedness exercise, enabling DPH staff to practice their readiness in the event of a large-scale health emergency, and test their ability to accommodate all people, including those with access and functional needs. Bilingual and sign interpreters were available, and special lanes existed for those with functional needs. People can stop by the Blue Hen Mall drive-thru clinic up until 4:00 p.m. today.

The 2016-2017 intramuscular flu vaccine protects against four strains of the influenza virus, which can be unpredictable and deadly. Last flu season, Delaware had 2,064 confirmed flu cases, six of which were fatal.

“The flu is easy to transmit and you can get it from healthy, but unvaccinated, children and adults,” Secretary Landgraf said. “With the announcement of the first confirmed case of the season, we want to remind Delawareans that they need the protection that an annual flu shot provides. Getting vaccinated can reduce the severity of flu illness and prevent visits to the doctor, clinic, or emergency room or missing important family, school, and work events.”

“Vaccination is about not only protecting yourself, but also protecting each other,” said Dr. Rattay. “If you’re not in a high-risk group, you likely live or interact with those who are, such as young children, older adults, or those with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems.”

Dr. Rattay said it is especially important that older Delawareans and those with underlying health conditions get their flu shots early, preferably by the end of October. Those among the most vulnerable populations:

• Seniors
• Pregnant women and their household contacts
• Caregivers and household contacts of children younger than 6 months, since those children are too young to receive the vaccine
• Those with chronic conditions or compromised immune systems
• Food service providers
• Health care providers.

“In Delaware, there are ample opportunities to receive the flu vaccine. From physician offices, to pharmacies, even the grocery store,” said Bayhealth Senior Vice President and Chief Nurse Executive Bonnie Perratto. “But some people are still in need. And events like this help bridge the gap so we can protect as many Delawareans as possible from the flu.”

Since it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body that protect against influenza virus infection, Delawareans are encouraged to get vaccinated before influenza begins spreading in their community. The flu vaccine is readily available through medical providers, pharmacies, and some grocery stores. DPH is hosting public flu clinics, including some with evening hours, at various locations. Finding a nearby flu clinic or vaccination site is easier than ever before. Google “CDC flu finder,” enter your ZIP code, and find nearby sites offering vaccinations.

Flu symptoms come on suddenly, and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches and body aches, and fatigue. Some people get complications including pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus and ear infections. Providers can prescribe antiviral medicines to make the illness milder, hasten recovery, and prevent serious complications, hospitalizations, and even death. DPH monitors the occurrence of influenza-like illnesses in hospitals, selected long-term care facilities, and medical clinics to track flu trends in the state.

Delawareans can prevent the spread of the flu and other respiratory illness with good hygiene: wash hands often with soap and water, use hand sanitizer with 60 percent alcohol, and cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or aiming for your inside elbow. Stay six feet away from others who are coughing or sneezing, and avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Persons with flu-like illness should stay home from work, school, and other gatherings and not return until free of fever — 100° F (37.8° C), without the use of fever-reducing medications for at least 24 hours.

For more information on influenza prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, call DPH at 800-282-8672 or visit flu.delaware.gov.

A person who is deaf, hard-of-hearing, deaf-blind or speech-disabled can call the DPH phone number above by using TTY services. Dial 7-1-1 or 800-232-5460 to type your conversation to a relay operator, who reads your conversation to a hearing person at DPH. The relay operator types the hearing person’s spoken words back to the TTY user. To learn more about TTY availability in Delaware, visit http://delawarerelay.com.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations. DPH, a division of DHSS, urges Delawareans to make healthier choices with the 5-2-1 Almost None campaign: eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables each day, have no more than 2 hours of recreational screen time each day (includes TV, computer, gaming), get 1 or more hours of physical activity each day, and drink almost no sugary beverages.