Harper County Health Department

05/27/2026

Harmful Algal Blooms

Keep an eye out for harmful algal blooms (HABs) at the lake this weekend.

HABs can develop rapidly. They release toxins that can be harmful to humans and animals.

Knowing how to identify HABs can keep your family, pets and livestock safe.

HABs can look like foam, scum, mats, or paint floating on the water surface. They can smell bad and the water can look blue, green, brown, orange, red or paint-like.

KNOW IT. AVOID IT. REPORT IT.

Check to see if your lake is on the list of advisories for HABs at kdhe.ks.gov/HAB Lake advisories are posted every Friday from April-October.

If you notice a HAB, please report it to KDHE at 855-422-5253, or at kdhe.ks.gov/HAB

05/26/2026

Summer heat is just around the corner. Do you know the signs and symptoms of a heat-related illness?

Outdoor workers, older adults, pregnant women, those with chronic medical conditions, and infants/young children are at greater risk for heat-related illnesses.

Warning signs can include:
• Heavy sweating
• Muscle cramps
• Dizziness or fainting
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Rapid pulse
• Confusion

Stay safe by drinking plenty of water, wearing lightweight clothing, taking breaks in the shade or air conditioning, and never leaving children or pets in a vehicle.

Learn more about heat-related illnesses at https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/heat-stress/about/illnesses.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com

05/26/2026

Backyard Poultry -

Backyard poultry can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to practice healthy habits around your flock to help prevent the spread of germs.

Tips for staying healthy around poultry:

• Wash your hands before and after handling poultry or their supplies.
• Don’t kiss or snuggle backyard poultry.
• Keep backyard poultry outside and out of your home.
• Supervise children around poultry, and do not let children younger than 5 years old handle or touch poultry.
• Use a dedicated pair of shoes when caring for poultry and keep those shoes outside.
• Clean poultry equipment and supplies outdoors whenever possible.

Learn more about backyard poultry safety at - https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-pets/about/backyard-poultry.html

Tips for keeping backyard poultry and people healthy.

05/18/2026

Stay informed about Ticks and Tickborne Diseases in Kansas!

05/18/2026

Happening this Wednesday, May 20, 2026! Stop by from 12:30-2:30pm to see a provider and check out the mobile unit!

05/18/2026

Hydration -

Spring is slipping away into summer! ☀️ With warmer days and more outdoor activities, make sure your body gets the hydration it needs to keep you going strong. Staying hydrated helps your body regulate temperature, protect joints, and prevent dehydration.

💧 Tips to stay hydrated:
• Carry a reusable water bottle
• Choose water over sugary drinks
• Add lemon, lime, or fruit for flavor
• Eat water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges
• Drink extra water when spending time outdoors or being active

Tips to stay hydrated: https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-weight-growth/water-healthy-drinks/index.html

05/11/2026

Asthma

Breathing is something most of us never think about, but for many it's not easy. Asthma affects millions, turning simple moments into challenges. But with proper care, awareness and support, people with asthma can live active lives.

Asthma Resources: https://www.cdc.gov/asthma/about/index.html

05/06/2026

Happening today!

Our mobile clinic will be parked and ready at the Harper County Health Department on Wednesday. Come say hi!

From baby checkups to adult screenings, we’re proud to provide a convenient "extension" of our clinic services for all ages.

📍 Catch us at: Harper County Health Department
📅 Schedule: 1st & 3rd Wednesdays
⏰ Hours: 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.

04/28/2026

Mosquito Bite Prevention

Mosquitoes can spread a variety of viruses, so it’s important to protect yourself and your family from bites. Follow the Three Ds of mosquito prevention:

🦟 DRAIN – Remove standing water where mosquitoes live and breed.
🦟 DRESS – Cover your skin with clothing when outdoors.
🦟 DEET – Use insect repellents with DEET or other EPA-approved ingredients.

Stay informed and learn more about protecting your family:
https://www.cdc.gov/mosquitoes/prevention/

Prevent mosquito bites by using repellent, wearing proper clothes, and controlling mosquitoes.

04/21/2026

Diabetes Management

Type 2 diabetes, the most common type of diabetes, can lead to serious health complications if left unmanaged. Help manage your diabetes by healthy eating, physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight. Early management can make all the difference.

Manage your diabetes: https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/877/Manage-Your-Type-2-Diabetes