06/05/2026
At Mower County Public Health, we know that the health and safety of your loved ones is a main priority. We can’t always tell the difference between accurate information and rumors. In a world full of headlines, social media posts, and scary stories, it can be difficult to know what information to trust.
Our goal is to provide science-based, medically supported information so you can make informed decisions about your family's health. By understanding the facts, we can work together to reduce fear, stop misinformation, and focus on what truly helps keep our community safe.
What We're Watching Right Now:
Recent news reports have highlighted outbreaks of Ebola and Hantavirus in other parts of the world. While these stories can sound scary, the risk to most Americans remains very low.
Ebola:
There are currently no confirmed Ebola cases in the United States. Ebola spreads through direct contact with the body fluids of an infected person. If you have loved ones living in or traveling to the area of the outbreak, know that their return to the US may be delayed or restricted for several days while they are tested.
Hantavirus:
Recent concerns have involved the Andes strain of Hantavirus, which can spread through very close contact with an infected person. The strain found in the United States, called Sin Nombre virus, is different and is typically contracted through exposure to infected rodent droppings or body fluids and not from person-to-person contact.
Health Concerns Closer to Home
Norovirus:
A highly contagious strain of norovirus (sometimes called the "stomach flu" or "vomit virus") is circulating across the United States, with very high levels detected in Minnesota wastewater.
Save yourself a few days of suffering by:
• Washing your hands frequently with soap and water
• Cleaning commonly touched surfaces
• Staying home when sick
Ticks and Mosquitoes
Summer means more time outdoors—and more bug bites.
Protect yourself by:
• Using EPA-approved insect repellent
• Wearing long sleeves and pants in wooded areas
• Performing thorough tick checks after spending time outside
Summer Heat Safety
High temperatures can lead to dehydration and heat-related illness.
Remember to:
• Drink plenty of water
• Take breaks in cool or shaded areas
• Protect your skin from the sun
• Watch for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke
Air Quality
Wildfire smoke can affect air quality, especially for young children, older adults, people with asthma, and those with respiratory conditions. Smoke and other allergens can put a damper on your summer fun.
Monitor local air quality:
• AirNow: https://www.airnow.gov/?city=Austin&state=MN&country=USA
• Minnesota Air Quality Index: https://data.web.health.state.mn.us/air
When air quality is poor, consider limiting outdoor activities and spending more time indoors.
Measles
Measles remains a concern in the United States and is one of the most contagious diseases known. Fortunately, it is highly preventable through vaccination.
The MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) vaccine is safe and highly effective:
• One dose is about 93% effective against measles
• Two doses are about 97% effective against measles
Mower County Public Health is Here to Help
We all value the health and safety of our families. Making decisions about their well-being means having trustworthy information. If you have questions about disease outbreaks, vaccines, or other public health concerns, contact Mower County Public Health ([email protected]) or speak with your trusted healthcare provider.
Together, we can build a healthier, safer Mower County through facts, prevention, and informed decision-making.
