Houston County Public Health

06/15/2026

Recent cases of New World screwworm (NWS) in southern Texas serve as a reminder for livestock owners to stay informed about emerging animal health concerns and continue routine wound monitoring and care.

While important, the situation is not currently urgent for Minnesota.

State agencies and the University of Minnesota have interdisciplinary teams monitoring the situation carefully. Key information for Minnesota livestock owners and veterinarians includes:
• NWS does not overwinter in Minnesota's climate.
• Spread to Minnesota can occur from animals traveling from affected areas.
• Identifying and treating a NWS infection early is key to limiting fly numbers.
• Notify a state animal health official if you suspect NWS.
• Suspected flies and larvae will be forwarded to the National Veterinary Services Lab within 24 hours for evaluation.

What can livestock owners do?
• Stay aware and informed on the ongoing situation.
• Carefully check your livestock, horses or animals for slow-healing or worsening wounds, signs of discomfort, and maggots in wounds or body openings (e.g., navel or v***a), especially if traveling to/from NWS-affected areas.
• Contact your veterinarian right away if you suspect NWS.

Learn more at z.umn.edu/bdha

06/10/2026

Please stay weather aware today!

*** Post Expired ****

Through 2 PM, strong to severe storms will move into the area from the southwest and west this afternoon and they may bring damaging winds and large hail.

06/10/2026

Minnesotans know how quickly beautiful blue summer skies can turn into sudden, severe weather. With weather conditions changing in the blink of an eye, staying alert to flash flooding on our roads is important. Flooded roads primarily appear from heavy rain events, especially during a drought or overloaded drainage systems. Flooding can create unexpected hazards, major traffic congestion, and life-threatening situations.

- Hydroplaning: When heavy rain causes water to pool on the road, vehicles can lose contact with the pavement and slide uncontrollably. The risk of hydroplaning increases significantly at speeds over 35 mph. Worn-down tire treads and smoother road surfaces make it even harder for your vehicle to maintain traction.

- Hidden Hazards: Floodwaters are often murky and turbulent, easily disguising what lies underneath. Deep water can hide severe road erosion, massive potholes, debris or washed-out shoulders.

- Misleading Water Depth: Water is almost always deeper than it looks, especially on rural roads, underpasses and low-lying spots. Just 6 inches of water can reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control or stalling. 12 to 18 inches of water is enough to float and carry away most vehicles, including SUVs and trucks.

- The Golden Rule: If you encounter a flooded road, never try to drive through it. Turn around, don’t drown.

Stay alert, watch for changing road conditions, and never take a chance on a flooded street. Remember, the goal isn't just to reach your destination – it’s to make it home safely to the ones who love you most. Together we can drive Minnesota toward zero deaths.

06/09/2026

06/09/2026

06/09/2026

We’re highlighting some of the new food package options available to WIC participants this month.

Did you know tuna and salmon is available for all women and children in their food packages? What’s your favorite way to enjoy these options? We’ll go first! A classic tuna sandwich on whole wheat bread with sliced cheddar cheese. Drop your favorites below!

Don’t forget to use the MN WIC App to view your benefits and scan items as you shop!

06/09/2026

06/04/2026

To find the application visit: https://www.hocomn.gov/departments/public_health/opioid_settlement.php

06/02/2026

WIC food benefits are changing beginning with your June benefits. These changes improve the nutritional value of the WIC food benefits. Use the Minnesota WIC App to scan food products while shopping. Visit the WIC website to learn more about the changes and more food choices.
Ask your local WIC clinic for details and learn more on our website: https://www.health.state.mn.us/people/wic/foods/changes.html

06/02/2026

Heading home after a day in the woods? Before you come inside, check your clothing and gear for ticks. After your tick check, toss clothes and gear in the dryer on high heat for at least 10 minutes to help kill any ticks you may have missed. Ticks can survive a wash cycle, especially without hot water. If clothes are damp or need to be washed first, dry them longer. A quick dryer cycle can help reduce your risk of tick bites and tickborne illness. https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/tickborne/prevention.html