Brown County Public Health Department

08/10/2026

AAP’s vaccine recommendations for U.S. children are built on decades of research, thousands of studies, continuous safety monitoring, and the expertise of physicians and scientists whose sole focus is children's health. AAP’s schedule is based on when children’s immune systems respond best to immunizations, and when they are most vulnerable to preventable diseases.

We don't change recommendations because of political considerations, speculations, or misinformation. Right now, the evidence continues to show that these vaccines are safe, effective, and important for protecting children.

07/31/2026

Fight the Bite Friday

Tiny doesn't mean harmless.



The ticks in these photos are larvae—the earliest active stage in a tick's life cycle. They're about the size of a poppy seed, making them easy to overlook after spending time outdoors.



Whether you're hiking, gardening, camping, or simply enjoying your backyard, a few simple habits can help protect you and your family:



✔️Use an EPA-registered insect repellent.

✔️Wear long sleeves and pants when possible in grassy or wooded areas.

✔️Check yourself, your children, and your pets for ticks after being outdoors.

✔️Shower soon after coming inside to help wash away unattached ticks and make it easier to spot any that may be crawling on you.



A quick tick check only takes a few minutes, and it can make a big difference.

07/31/2026

07/30/2026

Help prevent the spread of bacteria by cleaning hands, utensils, and kitchen surfaces before and after preparing food. https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation

07/21/2026

We talk a lot about ticks... but mosquitoes deserve your attention too. 🦟

Mosquitoes are actually the deadliest animal in the world because they spread disease to humans. In Illinois, the biggest concern is West Nile virus.

Just one bite from an infected mosquito can spread West Nile virus. Some people never feel sick, but others develop fever, headache, and body aches. In severe case, it can affect the brain and nervous system.

Those most at risk for severe illness from West Nile virus: people ages 60 and older.

If you develop high fever, confusion, tremors, convulsions, or paralysis after mosquito exposure, seek medical care immediately.

The good news: mosquito bites are preventable.
➡️Use EPA-registered insect repellent (DEET or picaridin work well).
➡️Wear long sleeves and pants when mosquitoes are active.
➡️Repair window and door screens.
➡️Empty standing water around your home at least once a week. That can include buckets, plant saucers, bird baths, old tires, outdoor toys, and anything collecting rainwater.

And don't fall for these myths:
🚫"Mosquito plants"
🚫Ultrasonic devices
🚫Bug zappers
🚫Vitamins or supplements
🚫Relying on bats or purple martins alone

The best protection is repellent and removing standing water.

🔗Learn more about West Nile virus: https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/diseases-and-conditions/west-nile-virus.html

07/17/2026

Wondering what vaccines your child needs to be ready for "Back to School"? Here's what you need to know!

07/16/2026