Food safety is essential to maintaining the health and well-being of our community. The Andrew County Health Department is dedicated to ensuring that residents can dine out, shop for groceries, and prepare meals with confidence. Through food inspections, education, and preventive measures, our team works to reduce the risk of foodborne illness and promote safe food practices throughout Andrew County.  The Role of Food Inspections in Public Safety Our environmental health specialists conduct regular inspections of local restaurants, grocery stores, schools, and other food service establishments. These inspections are designed to: Identify and correct food safety violations. Ensure proper food storage, handling, and preparation practices are followed. Verify that kitchen staff follow hygiene protocols, such as handwashing and glove use. By routinely monitoring these establishments, the Andrew County Health Department helps protect the public from risks like cross-contamination, improper food temperatures, and unsafe storage practices. Our team also provides guidance and resources to help businesses maintain compliance with health standards. Tips for Safe Food Handling at Home While our department works to ensure food safety in public establishments, residents also play a vital role in preventing foodborne illness at home. Follow these essential tips for safe food handling: Clean: Wash your hands, cooking surfaces, and utensils thoroughly before and after handling food. Always rinse fruits and vegetables under running water. Separate: Keep raw meat, poultry, and seafood separate from ready-to-eat foods to prevent cross-contamination. Cook: Use a food thermometer to ensure foods are cooked to safe temperatures: Poultry: 165°F Ground meat: 160°F Fish: 145°F Chill: Refrigerate perishable foods within two hours to prevent bacteria growth. Keep your refrigerator at 40°F or below and your freezer at 0°F. Avoid Risky Foods: Be cautious when consuming raw or undercooked eggs, meat, or seafood. These foods are more prone to carrying harmful bacteria. Supporting Local Businesses with Food Safety Training The Andrew County Health Department also offers food safety training for food service workers and managers. This training equips staff with the knowledge and skills to maintain safe food practices, ensuring residents can trust the food they eat in local establishments. Stay Informed and Protected By combining proactive food inspections, community education, and safe food handling practices, the Andrew County Health Department is committed to protecting the health of our residents. For more information on food safety guidelines, inspection reports, or upcoming training sessions, visit Andrew County Health Department or contact our office directly. Together, we can keep Andrew County's plates safe and healthy for everyone.

Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to protect your health and the well-being of our entire community. At Andrew County Health Department , we are committed to helping residents stay informed and protected through accessible immunization services. Understanding why vaccines are important and what they prevent can empower you to make informed healthcare decisions for yourself and your loved ones.  Why Are Vaccines Important? Vaccines work by stimulating your immune system to build defenses against harmful diseases. They are a safe and proven method of preventing serious illnesses such as measles, mumps, influenza, and even some forms of cancer. By staying up to date with recommended immunizations, you protect not only yourself but also those around you who may be more vulnerable to disease, such as infants, older adults, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Protecting Our Community Through Immunization In Andrew County, maintaining strong community health is a priority. Vaccinations play a key role in preventing outbreaks that could otherwise spread rapidly through schools, workplaces, and public gatherings. By achieving high vaccination rates, we strengthen "herd immunity," which reduces the overall risk of disease transmission and protects those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons. Who Needs Vaccinations? Vaccines are vital at every stage of life. Here are some key groups that should prioritize immunization: Infants and Young Children: Childhood vaccines protect against dangerous diseases like polio, measles, and chickenpox. School-Aged Children: Immunizations such as Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) are crucial for school entry and overall public health. Teens and Young Adults: Vaccines like HPV (human papillomavirus) and meningococcal shots help protect against infections that commonly affect this age group. Adults: Maintaining immunity through booster shots, flu vaccines, COVID vaccines and shingles prevention is key to staying healthy. Older Adults and Those with Chronic Conditions: Vaccines such as pneumococcal and influenza shots can prevent severe complications from common illnesses. Accessing Vaccines in Andrew County At Andrew County Health Department , we offer a range of vaccination services for residents of all ages. Whether you need routine immunizations, school-required shots, our experienced staff is here to help. If you're unsure about your vaccination status or which vaccines you may need, our team can provide personalized guidance. We also encourage parents to maintain updated vaccination records for their children to ensure they meet school requirements and remain protected. Common Questions About Vaccines We understand that some individuals may have concerns about vaccinations. Our healthcare providers are available to answer your questions, address concerns, and provide trusted information to help you feel confident in your healthcare decisions. Don't Delay—Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones Today Vaccines are a vital investment in your health and the health of our community. By staying current with immunizations, we can work together to prevent the spread of dangerous diseases and create a safer environment for all Andrew County residents. To learn more about our vaccination services or to schedule an appointment, visit Andrew County Health Department or contact our office directly. Let’s protect our community—one vaccine at a time.