Public Health

County sees rise in stomach-related illness cases

Garfield County is currently experiencing an increase in stomach-related illness, often caused by norovirus. Many people, schools, and organizations are reporting illness. Norovirus is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea among people of all ages in the United States.
Stomach illness

Pediatric flu hospitalizations at highest rate in 15 years

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) flu data released this week shows that children younger than 18 had the highest weekly hospitalization rate since 2011.

Last week alone, 15 pediatric influenza-associated deaths occurred, bringing the national total to 32 this season. Ninety percent of the deaths have been in children who were not vaccinated against influenza.
Flu rate

Mountain Coalition for Food and Nutrition Security contact information

West Mountain Regional Health Alliance (WMRHA) is a backbone non-direct service organization serving Eagle, Garfield, and Pitkin counties, focused on building an integrated health system that supports optimal health for all residents through collaboration, expanded access to care, and a focus on social needs.
Local resources

Public Health information

Garfield County, especially the areas around Rifle, Battlement Mesa, and Parachute, is home to a type of mosquito that can carry the West Nile virus. That’s why it is important to take precautions every time you’re outside in areas where mosquitoes may be present.
mosquitos

Behind on your child’s necessary vaccines? Traveling internationally? Make an appointment with Public Health to get the vaccines you need.
vaccines

Bats are rarely aggressive and don’t commonly have rabies. However, it is always important to know what you need to do ahead of time, should you get bitten or scratched by a bat.
avoid rabies from bats