Topics Related to Environmental Health

We’re recognizing the professionals who work to keep the places where we eat, swim, learn and live safe because it is North Carolina Registered Environmental Health Specialist Week.

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by a parasite called cyclospora. This parasite can only be seen with a microscope. People get sick when they eat or drink food or water that is contaminated with this parasite. 

NC is among dozens of U.S. states experiencing an increase of cyclosporiasis cases this summer.

Who says you can’t be Sherlock Holmes when you grow up? NC public health professionals track and test for diseases to help stop them and keep communities safe.

Or maybe you want to keep playing in the dirt as a grown-up. NC environmental health experts dig holes, test the soil and make sure our groundwater is safe.

You can now learn more about public health careers in a new TV series called “Health Heroes.” The children’s educational series is on PBS North Carolina. 

This Earth Week, we are reminded that the environment around us affects our health.

The air we breathe, the water we use and the places where we live all shape how healthy we are. The NC Environmental Public Health Tracking Program uses data to help people understand these connections.

Our program brings together information about the environment and health from across NC. This data helps people:

In North Carolina, many families get their drinking water from private wells. Unlike city water, which is tested regularly by water providers, private well owners must test their own water. That means it is up to each family to make sure their water is safe.

Water from private wells can contain harmful germs or chemicals you can’t see, smell or taste. If well water is not routinely tested, families may drink unsafe water without knowing it. This can lead to stomach problems, skin rashes or more serious health issues over time.

Norovirus, also called the "stomach bug," is highly contagious and spreads fast. Cases are increasing across North Carolina.

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Norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illness in the United States. Noroviruses spread easily — as few as 10 viral particles can lead to illness.

You can get norovirus from:

January is National Radon Action Month, and North Carolinians can get a free radon test kit as of Jan. 1, while supplies last.