It’s already flu season
According to an Oct. 16 online article by New Hampshire Public Radio, “Flu season has started early this year, with reports of flu cases, particularly Influenza A, beginning in September rather than the usual onset in October or November.” Dr. Gabriela Andujar Vasquez, of Dartmouth Health was quoted as said that the rate of infection is “still low but trending in the direction in which we start thinking that the season will be starting and picking up quickly and soon.”
QOL score: -1
Comment: “For people who can get the flu vaccine,” the NHPR report read, “health experts recommend getting the vaccine now as it takes two weeks to develop optimal protection.” It also noted, “Good handwashing practices, wearing masks and staying home when sick are also recommended to reduce spread of the flu.” Visit the Centers for Disease and Prevention’s flu page at cdc.gov/flu.
More hate graffiti
According to an Oct. 17 press release by Manchester Police Department, “Manchester Police are investigating a series of criminal mischief incidents involving hateful messages found in several areas of the city. So far, police have identified 15 incidents in three areas. The incidents occurred overnight and involved antisemitic, racist, and homophobic content. At this point in the investigation, the acts appear to be random, with no indication that specific individuals or properties were intentionally targeted.”
QOL score: -2
Comment: In the same statement, Manchester Police Chief Peter Marr wrote,”Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected, and we take incidents like these seriously. We are actively investigating this matter and will work to hold those responsible accountable.” Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity or has surveillance footage from these areas to contact the Manchester Police Department at 603-668-8711.
Paw-ranormal activity at the Howl-O-Ween 5K
On Saturday, Oct. 17, more than 500 human and canine runners and walkers raised more than $50,000 for the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire at the 9th Annual Howl-O-Ween 5K. “This year’s event was the biggest in the race’s history,” Jacob Harper of the ARLNH wrote in an Oct. 19 press release.“ Dog and human runners and walkers completed the 5K race in costumes that included humans dressed as pumpkins, bananas, and cows, and dogs in costumes that ranged from tacos, to hot dogs, to pink western gear.
QOL score: +1, because life is better with dogs dressed as tacos.
Comment:“The need for animal welfare services across New Hampshire continues to grow, and as we receive no state or federal funding, our team needs to raise $1.8 million this year to sustain our programs. Many of these programs provide critical support to low-income families,” wrote Marianne Jones, CEO of ARLNH, in the press release. The 10th Annual Howl-O-Week 5K is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 16, 2027.
QOL score: 64
Net change: -2
QOL this week: 62
What’s affecting your Quality of Life here in New Hampshire? Let us know at news@hippopress.com.