Steele County

05/29/2026

May is World Stroke Month, a time when many health and heart organizations come together to raise awareness about the causes and effects of stroke.

May is also National Stroke Awareness Month, serving as an important reminder that early recognition and rapid response are critical.

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death and a major cause of long-term disability in the United States. Each year, approximately 800,000 people in the U.S. experience a stroke, and someone dies from one every 3.5 minutes.

Non-Hispanic Black individuals have the highest rates of stroke mortality in the country.

Every minute counts when a stroke occurs, so knowing the signs with B.E. F.A.S.T. and taking quick action can save lives.

Link to more information for awareness, symptom recognition, and prevention: https://www.stroke.org/en/

05/28/2026

Save the Date!

Steele County Public Health is hosting our second annual Family Fun Day — this time with partners! Join us on Tuesday, June 23rd from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Manthey Park (225 24th St NE, Owatonna, MN) for a morning full of fun activities, games, snacks, prizes, and community resources.

Families will have the opportunity to learn about the many programs, services, and opportunities our community has to offer to support children’s growth and development.

We hope to see you there for a fun-filled day with the whole family! ☀️

05/27/2026

Listen in on this month’s Health Talk episode with Abigail Nachreiner, RecoveryCorps coordinator stationed at Steele County Public Health! Abigail breaks down cannabis rules and regulations at the local level, including what users, sellers, growers, and community members should know as cannabis laws continue to evolve in Minnesota.

If you would like more information regarding this topic, please refer to our website:
https://steelecountymn.gov/public_health/community_resources.php

05/26/2026

Give the gift of life at our annual blood drive TOMORROW, May 27th, 9am-3pm, at the Steele County Community Center (1380 S Elm Ave in Owatonna). This event is proudly sponsored by Steele County Public Health.

We're getting close to reaching our goal, but we're still looking for at least 20 more donors to sign-up. If you're able, please consider taking 30-60 minutes to make a life-changing difference.

Sign up here: https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=Steele%20County

05/26/2026

05/26/2026

Join Abigail at Community Pathways today to learn more about safe storage and how to protect your family and pets from accidental exposure.

📍 Today from 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM
📍 155 Oakdale St., Owatonna, MN

Can’t make it? Find more information about safe storage here: https://www.cdc.gov/wtc/prescriptionsafety.html

05/22/2026

Happy Memorial Day weekend, Veteran Services.
Rene and Mary Jo

05/22/2026

Today is Don’t Fry Day! ☀️

As we head into the summer months, when the sun is at its strongest in Minnesota, it is a great reminder to protect yourself from getting a sunburn or skin cancer.

Protect your skin by:
🧴 Wearing sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
🕶️ Wearing sunglasses, hats, and protective clothing
🌳 Seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours from 10AM–4PM
💧 Staying hydrated while spending time outdoors

Even one bad sunburn can increase your risk of skin cancer later in life. Take a few extra steps to stay safe while still enjoying the sunshine this summer!

05/21/2026

MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONIES 2026
OWATONNA
9:30 AM - MEMORIAL DAY PARADE
10:30 AM - PROGRAM AT FOUR SEASONS CENTRE

05/20/2026

This month was Hepatitis Awareness Month, and throughout the month we highlighted Hepatitis A, B, and C.

This week, we are highlighting Hepatitis C — a virus that can cause serious liver damage over time if left untreated. Hepatitis C is spread through contact with infected blood, often through sharing needles or other equipment used to inject drugs, needlestick injuries, or from a mother to baby during childbirth.

Many people with Hepatitis C may not feel sick or have symptoms for years, which is why testing is so important. About 10–20% of people with Hepatitis C may develop cirrhosis, or scarring of the liver, which can increase the risk of liver cancer.

The good news? Hepatitis C can often be cured with treatment. Talk to your healthcare provider about testing if you believe you may be at risk.