Montgomery County health officials urged residents to prioritize safety and health as Halloween weekend approaches and the state’s health insurance marketplace prepares to open for enrollment. During a weekly media briefing on Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, officials provided guidance on Halloween safety, vaccinations, and health insurance.
Halloween Safety Tips
Health Officer Dr. Kisha Davis reminded residents that Halloween falls on Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026, and anticipated large crowds and many children participating in trick-or-treating. She also asked residents to keep pedestrian and traffic safety in mind. She encouraged parents to consider face paint over masks that may obstruct vision, and for children to carry flashlights, glow sticks or reflective tape to increase their visibility.
Davis also highlighted concerns for children with food allergies, noting that “one in 13 children has a food allergy.” She advised residents to offer non-food treats such as stickers, glow sticks and small toys. Displaying a teal pumpkin signals an allergy-safe stop for trick-or-treaters, she said. Parents were cautioned to inspect all treats before consumption, discarding anything unsealed or homemade. Davis specifically warned against including cannabis edibles in trick-or-treat bags, stating, “it’s not funny.”
Flu and COVID Shots
Dr. Davis recommended that residents get their COVID and flu shots, stating it is “a great time to get your COVID and flu shot.” She noted that “we’ve seen an early flu season” and that the vaccinations offer protection through the winter holidays, Thanksgiving and the end of the year. According to Axios D.C. reporting on Oct. 14, flu activity is rising earlier than in previous years, with CDC data showing approximately 3.6 percent of flu tests nationwide were positive in early October, compared to 0.6 percent a year earlier.
Health Insurance Enrollment Opens Sunday
Dr. James Bridgers, director of the Department of Health and Human Services, announced that open enrollment for 2027 coverage on Maryland Health Connection begins Sunday, Nov. 1. He stated that the county is supporting this with a campaign alongside community agency partners, recreation centers and libraries. For those with questions or needing enrollment assistance, a helpline is available at 240-777-1815. Bridgers added, “We’re always here to help.”
Tick Season and an Allergy Alert
Dr. Davis also drew attention to guidance from the Maryland Department of Health regarding alpha-gal syndrome. She explained that this is an acquired allergy primarily transmitted by the bite of the lone star tick. Reactions typically occur two to six hours after ingesting mammalian meat or dairy products, often manifesting at night with hives or gastrointestinal symptoms. This delay in reaction can lead to misdiagnosis, she said. Dr. Davis emphasized that “tick prevention remains essential throughout late autumn,” advising precautions for those enjoying outdoor activities.
What’s Next
As National Breast Cancer Awareness Month concludes at the end of October, Dr. Davis urged residents to schedule mammograms and other preventive screenings before the year ends. Residents with health insurance questions can contact the county helpline at 240-777-1815. Montgomery County officials hold a media briefing weekly.
