Mercer County Health Department

06/18/2026

06/18/2026

DATE change - come early before you eat and have your BP checked!

06/18/2026

It's peak summer, and with temperatures soaring, don't forget the sunscreen. Experts recommend an SPF of 30 -50, and reapply often! https://wb.md/4omtLLn

06/17/2026

Irritability is a big sign of poor sleep. One study limited people to 4 1/2 hours of sleep a night for a week. The result: More stressed, angry, and mentally exhausted people. They felt better when they returned to their normal schedules. If you’re missing out on shut-eye, your body will soon show the signs. https://wb.md/4ei4TQ1

06/16/2026

Stay Safe Around Snakes

A Family Guide to Snakebite Prevention in Missouri

Why This Matters
Warmer weather brings more time outside—but also more chances to see snakes. The
good news is that most snakes in Missouri are harmless, and serious bites are rare.
Knowing what to do can help keep your family safe and confident outdoors.
Snakes in Missouri: What to Know
Missouri has nearly 50 types of snakes, and most are not dangerous.

A small number are venomous, including:
• Copperhead (most common)
• Cottonmouth (water moccasin)
• Rattlesnakes (timber, pygmy, massasauga)

Most bites happen when someone tries to handle or bother a snake.
Where Snakes Hide

Snakes prefer places that are cool and provide cover. Be aware in:
• Tall grass or overgrown yards
• Brush piles or woodpiles
• Rocks, cliffs, or logs
• Near water (creeks, lakes, ponds)
How Families Can Prevent Snake Bites
Around Your Home
• Keep grass trimmed
• Remove piles of leaves, wood, or debris
• Watch where you step and reach
When Outdoors
• Wear closed-toe shoes or boots
• Stay on clear paths
• Use a flashlight at night
• Check before stepping over logs
• Keep hands out of hidden spaces
The #1 Rule
Never touch or try to pick up a snake
Many bites occur during handling attempts.


Teach Kids 3 Easy Steps
“Look, Don’t Touch!”
1. STOP when you see a snake
2. BACK AWAY slowly
3. TELL an adult right away

If a Snake Bite Happens
What TO Do
• Stay calm and keep still
• Move away from the snake
• Remove tight clothing or jewelry
• Gently clean the bite with soap and water
• Call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222
• Go to the nearest hospital

What NOT to Do
• Do NOT apply ice
• Do NOT use a tourniquet
• Do NOT cut or suck the bite
• Do NOT try to catch the snake

Warning Signs of a Serious Bite
Call 911 right away if there is:
• Increasing pain or swelling
• Bruising or spreading redness
• Trouble breathing
• Weakness, nausea, or dizziness

We’re Here to Help
☎ Poison Help line: 1-800-222-1222
• Free and confidential
• Available 24/7
• Staffed by nurses and pharmacists

Call anytime for snake bites or safety questions.

https://reptile.guide/missouri-snakes/

06/15/2026

Updated WIC income eligibility guidelines were just released! A family of 2 with a pre-tax (gross) income at or below $40,034 annually now qualifies. Participants in SNAP, TA and most MO HealthNet programs are automatically income-eligible for WIC. To find out if you qualify for WIC, complete our Online Interest Form to have a WIC local agency contact you: https://moexperience.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9yOkwmd0Zv93emO.

06/15/2026

First Impact was rescheduled from last week - it will be next Tuesday, June 23 - 6pm at the Princeton High School.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4EA5A92CA3FDC16-64224225-keeping #/

Sign up here or call us at 660-748-3630.