The Board of Health’s primary focus was on the avian influenza, H5N1. While the risk to the public remains low, the CDC is monitoring the situation, especially given its prevalence in wild birds and poultry. Residents with backyard chickens are advised to maintain updated licenses and follow recommended safety measures to prevent transmission. The Board of Health provided contact information for residents with questions or concerns.

The meeting also featured a presentation from the North Suffolk Public Health Collaborative, detailing a proposed revision of the intermunicipal agreement to include Board of Health representation. This change aims to enhance decision-making and ensure compliance with state public health laws. The collaborative, involving Revere, Chelsea, and Winthrop, seeks to improve health outcomes through shared resources and expertise. The collaborative has already facilitated efforts in childhood vaccination and communicable disease management.

Additionally, routine inspection reports were reviewed, noting high numbers of influenza and coronavirus cases. The inspectional services report detailed various violations, with a focus on snow and ice management responsibilities for residents and businesses.