March 3, 2020 – Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses common in both humans and many different species of animals. The current Coronavirus disease is called COVID-19 or SARS-CoV-2. COVID-19 is believed to be spread from person to person through coughs and sneezes and by being in close contact of people with the illness. Coronavirus symptoms include: fever, cough, … [Read more...]
Be a hero for patients: Donate blood during Red Cross Month
The American Red Cross urges the public to join its lifesaving mission by giving blood or platelets this March in celebration of Red Cross Month. Donors of all blood types, especially type O, are urgently needed to help ensure blood is available for patients this spring. Every day, thousands of patients depend on blood donations to help save their lives – patients like Heath … [Read more...]
Cancer patients use more blood than those fighting any other disease
Patients fighting cancer need more blood than patients fighting any other disease, using nearly one-quarter of the nation’s blood supply. That’s why this February, the American Red Cross and the American Cancer Society have teamed up to encourage people across the country to Give Blood to Give Time, ensuring loved ones have the strength and support to battle … [Read more...]
Oral health plays a big role in overall health
When you think of staying healthy, chances are proper nutrition, regular exercise, and annual checkups with our physician spring to mind. But what of your dental health? It’s more important than you think and the medical establishment is now pushing the importance of oral systemic health more than ever. “Oral systemic health is the connection between oral health and overall … [Read more...]
Emergency! Shrinking number of EMS volunteers
Emergency Medical Services — those professionals responding to crisis calls and both treating and transporting patients — are a vital part of our communities. So integral, we assume they’re just always there, willing and waiting in the wings when we need them. What happens though when there aren’t enough workers to do the job? In Fillmore County, these are volunteer-staffed … [Read more...]
Fillmore County Public Health hosts Healthy Bluff Country Summit
Fillmore County Public Health recently hosted the Healthy Bluff Country Summit on January 28 and 30 at the Fillmore County Office Building. Health Educator Brenda Pohlman and Director of Nursing for Public Health Jessica Erickson led the Summit. The purpose of the event was to discuss the current and future state of health in Fillmore County and provide information for the … [Read more...]
Canton man cycles his way to balanced life
By Janette Dragvold Cycling along the picturesque bike trails of Southeastern Minnesota is a leisure sport for most people, but Canton resident Shane Birch has taken his love of cycling way beyond that. He purchased his first full suspension mountain bike while in college, participated in his first mountain bike races, and was hooked. “I loved it,” states … [Read more...]
The relationship between eating and exercise
Diet and exercise are each vital components of a healthy lifestyle. While these components tend to be looked at separately, diet and exercise are actually interconnected. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, adequate food and fluid should be consumed before, during and after exercise. Following that advice can help men and women maintain their blood glucose … [Read more...]
Preliminary reports: four of eight fire deaths this year likely smoking related State fire marshal asking Minnesotans to follow smoking tips
Following four fire deaths since January 9, that appear to be smoking related, State Fire Marshal Jim Smith is asking Minnesotans who smoke to follow some important safety tips, and families to talk to loved ones who smoke about its fire-related dangers. Eight people died in fires between January 9-23. Four of these fatalities this month are likely smoking related, according … [Read more...]
Harmony bloodmobile collects 44 units
The blood drive held in Harmony on December 3, 2019, succeeded in collecting 44 units of blood. There were 51 donors that presented and one first-time participant. Congratulations to the following donor for reaching a milestone: Dennis Hershberger – 1 gallon. The bloodmobile is sponsored by the Harmony American Legion Auxiliary, and many of the volunteers are Auxiliary … [Read more...]