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Northeast Nebraska Public Health Dept

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Bats and Rabies

How to Get a Bat Out of the House and Stay Safe from Rabies Bats sometimes find their way inside homes, especially through open windows or small gaps. While most bats are harmless, some can carry rabies, so it's important to handle the situation safely. Step 1: Stay Calm and Protect Yourself If a bat enters your home, stay calm. Do not try to touch or grab the bat with your bare hands. Wear protective gloves.  Bats can carry rabies, which is a dangerous virus that can be spread through bites or scratches. . . .

Bed Bugs

 Bugs: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe Bed bugs are tiny insects that can cause big problems if they find their way into your home. They don't fly, but they move quickly and can hide in small cracks, making them hard to spot. Knowing what to look for and how to protect yourself is key to keeping your home bed bug-free. What Are Bed Bugs? Bed bugs are small, flat insects that feed on human blood, usually while you're sleeping. They are reddish-brown and about the size of an apple seed. Although their . . .

Mold

Mold can grow in damp, humid environments and has serious health risks. If you suspect mold in your home, it’s important to address it quickly. Common places mold can grow include bathrooms, basements, and areas with water damage. To prevent mold growth, control humidity levels, fix leaks, and ensure proper ventilation. There is no way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in an indoor environment, so the best way is to control moisture. Here are some tips to help you tackle mold clean up safely and effectively: . . .

Radon

Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that can seep into your home and pose serious health risks, including lung cancer. In Nebraska, approximately 1 in 3 homes have radon levels above the recommended action level. The only way to know if your home has dangerous levels of radon is through testing. Testing is simple and could save lives. You can pick up a free short-term radon test kit at the NNPHD office or at the County Extensi on offices in Cedar, Dixon, Thurston, and Wayne counties.  Radon is the number one cause of lung . . .

Water Quality

Do You Have Your Own Well? If you rely on a private well for drinking water, regular testing is essential to ensure it’s safe and free from harmful contaminants. It is recommended that you test your well water at least once per year for common pollutants. Early detection can prevent health risks and protect the well-being of those drinking the water. NNPHD does not currently have test kits at our office, but you can contact Central District Health Department  to request a test kit.  For more information . . .

Air Quality

Air Quality and Your Health Air quality plays a significant role in our overall health and well-being. Poor quality, caused by pollutants such as ozone, particulate matter, and volatile organic compounds, can affect the respiratory system, cardiovascular health, and even increase the risk of certain diseases. Why Air Quality Matters Breathing in polluted air can have both immediate and long-term effects, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-exisitng health . . .

Mosquito/Tick-Borne Disease

Mosquito-Borne Disease Mosquitoes can spread diseases like West Nile virus, Zika virus, Chikungunya virus, dengue, and malaria. To protect yourself, use insect repellent with DEET, wear long sleeves and pants, and avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito activity, particularly at dawn and dusk. Additionally, eliminating standing water around your home is important as it provides breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Be sure to check areas like flowerp ots, birdbaths, gutters, and old tires where water can collect. . . .