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City Cast Madison

 in the city. This monitor was installed at the Kennedy Heights Community Center. These monitors will measure particulate matter concentration throughout Madison — 56 on city street poles, five in parks, and four at partner organizations.

Particulate matter includes tiny pieces of dust, dirt, and other materials

 that can be breathed in by any living being. This type of air pollution can have negative short and long-term health impacts including throat and lung irritation, asthma, and heart disease. Particulate matter pollution is generated by sources such as vehicle emissions, wood burning, and coal combustion.

These monitors will provide hyperlocal information about the air quality in different areas of Madison. This project will also allow Madison residents to learn different solutions for reducing impact when the monitors show that the level of pollution is higher and more dangerous. The project is funded by the U.S. Department of Environmental Protection.

What Should I Do When the Air Quality Is Bad?

Some tips for keeping safe when the pollution gets bad include staying inside and closing windows, running your AC on recirculate, and using an air purifier, 

 If you have to go outside, use an N95 or KN95 mask, don’t do any difficult activities like working out, and change your clothes when you get home. Generally, keep an eye on your health and make sure to take care of yourself.

Madison recently installed the first of 65 air quality monitors in the city. This monitor was installed at the Kennedy Heights Community Center. These monitors will measure particulate matter concentration throughout Madison — 56 on city street poles, five in parks, and four at partner organizations.

How Does Madison Plan to Combat Pollution? 

Get to know the natural side of Madison: the plants, animals, weather and more that make our city unique.

Madison Urban Almanac

Urban Almanac

If you're like me, you’ll do anything to get into a body of water during the summer months. Madison is a great place to go swimming with the many lakes the city has to offer. But there are a few things to keep in mind before diving in.

The City of Madison constantly checks the safety of the water in our lakes. For updated information on each beach, you can check with 

 to see what beaches and lakes are open for swimming. While the city tries to be as accurate as possible, conditions can change quickly. This means you should still keep an eye out for green-blue algae.

Now, you may wonder what exactly you’re looking for when it comes to 

. The city describes it as “algae that looks blue-green, green, reddish-purple, or brown, murky looking water that has a texture similar to ‘pea soup,’ a layer of scum or puffy blobs floating on the surface, and a strong musty odor near the water.”

Coming into contact with blue-green algae can cause skin irritation, nausea, respiratory problems and more. The importance of being smart is key when it comes to swimming in these lakes!

If you do come into contact with the blue-green algae, make sure to 

Dogs are more affected by the blue-green algae because they're smaller than humans. Make sure to keep an eye on where your dog swims and if they ingest any water. Also, make sure to wash off your dog after they swim in a body of water that may have the blue-green algae.

Ready for a swim?

Madison is a great place to go swimming with the many lakes the city has to offer. But there are a few things to keep in mind before diving in. Here is your guide on how to safely swim in Madison this summer. 

Is It Safe To Swim?

Allergy season can make us feel like we have no control. Out of the blue, you’re suddenly sneezing, and wheezing, and your eyes are so itchy that you feel helpless to Mother Nature’s whims. While you can’t control the seasons, you 

control and reduce allergens in your home.

 are the antigens that trigger your body’s immune responses to fight off the perceived threats. Allergens often come in the form of pollen, dust mites, and mold spores. They can enter your home through open windows and on the clothes you wore outside.

But never fear, Madison Minutes is here with you your room-by-room guide to setting up your allergen-free home:

, especially if your doggie who loves to play outside cuddles with you nightly (guilty!).

 that are hypoallergenic or dust mite-proof.

Vacuum rugs regularly, particularly with a machine that uses 

Ventilation is key for your self-care space. An exhaust fan will help reduce moisture buildup.

Wash shower curtains and bathroom mats often. Spray and scrub surfaces weekly.

When was the last time you cleaned your fridge? Yeah, same. Scrub out the mold hiding in cracks and crevices, and replace moldy rubber seals around doors.

If possible, install an exhaust fan over your stove to remove cooking fumes.

Consider placing air purifiers throughout the house. You can find affordable purifiers at your local store — 

Avoid using wood-burning fireplaces as the smoke and gas can worsen respiratory allergies.

 — but consider the time of day and wind speeds. Nighttime is typically the worst time to open windows. 

Check the pollen count during peak allergy season

Wipe down dog and cat fur with a towel or disposable wipes.

Wash clothes soon after returning from outdoors.

If you live in a humid region, consider a 

What tips do you have for allergy season? 

'Tis the season for sneezing! Don't let spring time allergens get the best of you. Here's how to prepare your house to keep pollen and mites at bay. Your sinuses will thank you.

How To Prepare Your Madison Home For Allergy Season

Prepare Your Madison Home For Allergy Season

Tips and tricks for living your best Madison life, by locals, for locals.

Madison Life Hacks

COVID-19 is no longer considered a public health emergency

, it remains an illness that many people contract regularly, and acquiring treatment can be expensive and difficult to navigate. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has partnered with the pharmaceutical company Pfizer 

, a common treatment medication that typically costs upward of $1,400, which means you can get it for free or at a discounted price. Here’s what you need to know.

 to help fight COVID-19 infections. It works by keeping the virus from multiplying in your body. The company ran a clinical trial with over 2,000 people infected with COVID-19 and says that 

the drug reduced the risk of hospitalization or death by 86%

 that are taken orally twice daily for a total of five days. There is also a reduced dose for individuals with kidney disease. Your healthcare provider can prescribe the dosage and pack that is best for you.

You first need to get a prescription for Paxlovid from your doctor. Once you have a prescription, you can sign up for the free or reduced-cost medication option 

, or by calling 1-877-219-7225. You’ll need to provide some personal information such as your name, date of birth, and address. If you need assistance filling out the information, a local pharmacist should be able to help you.

Can You Get Paxlovid if You’re Uninsured?

Yes. The Paxcess program allows individuals without insurance, as well as those covered by Medicaid or Medicare, to get Paxlovid for free.

There might be a small cost if you have health insurance through a commercial provider, but it’s worth signing up through Paxcess, as it could help drastically reduce the cost of Paxlovid.

Feeling under the weather? You're not alone. COVID-19 is making the rounds but thankfully, Paxlovid can help fight it. But it's not cheap. Here’s how to get the medicine for free or at a reduced cost.

public health

How Does Madison Plan to Combat Pollution?

Is It Safe To Swim?

Prepare Your Madison Home For Allergy Season

Latest articles

How Does Madison Plan to Combat Pollution?

Is It Safe To Swim?

Prepare Your Madison Home For Allergy Season

How to Get Paxlovid for Free

Latest articles

How to Get Paxlovid for Free