National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

September 1, 2023

September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and it represents a time to listen, offer help and reduce stigmas around suicidal thoughts and seeking support....

Are you and your family prepared for a disaster? Learn more during National Preparedness Month

September 1, 2023

September is recognized each year as National Preparedness Month in order to raise awareness about disaster incidents that may affect public health and safety. Emergencies include a broad range of natural and man-made disasters, including floods, tornadoes, wildfires, landslides, hurricanes, earthquakes, extreme weather, power outages, gas leaks, terrorism and pandemics....

September is National Food Safety Education Month!

September 1, 2023

The food supply in the United States is among the safest in the world. However, when certain disease-causing bacteria or pathogens contaminate food, they can cause foodborne illness, often called “food poisoning.” The federal government estimates that there are about 48 million cases of foodborne illness annually – the equivalent of sickening 1 in 6 Americans each year....

September is National Suicide Prevention Month

September 1, 2023

Join El Paso County Public Health (EPCPH) as we observe National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in September. Suicide Prevention Awareness Month is a time to bring together mental health advocates, mental health organizations, survivors, allies, and community members nationwide to help prevent suicide....

National Immunization Awareness Month: What’s the MMR Vaccine?

August 22, 2023

August is National Immunization Month and it’s a great time to think about what immunizations are recommended for you and your children. If you are a parent, you may already be considering your child’s immunization status as they return to the classroom. Many children fell behind on routine childhood immunizations (check vaccine schedules here) during the COVID-19 pandemic but catching your child up on those vaccines can be a simple process. For parents and families who are seeking these resources, routine childhood and adult immunizations help protect you, your family, and your community. ...

Surviving the summer: tips for heat and sun safety

August 14, 2023

Heat-related illness affects hundreds of people in Colorado every summer. Here are some tips to help you have fun in the sun while staying hydrated and protected from harmful rays....

August is National Breastfeeding Month

August 2, 2023

August is National Breastfeeding Month, and World Breastfeeding Week is observed from August 1 – 7. This year's theme, This is Our Why, helps shine a light on why this work is essential and centers the conversation on the babies and families who need our support....

International Self-Care Day: carving out time for health and wellness day

July 24, 2023

It's no secret that life can be stressful, and the past few years are certainly a testament to that. It is extremely important to set aside time to take care of yourself. International Self-Care Day, celebrated each year on July 24, emphasizes the importance of self-care as the cornerstone of wellness. On this day, individuals are encouraged to make self-care a part of their everyday routines and turn it into a priority. Though it may seem like a trendy concept, it is a habit that has great health benefits....

El Paso County Public Health again offers immunizations at Backpack Bash

July 18, 2023

Every child deserves to start the school year with everything they need to be successful. That includes routine childhood immunization that keep children, and their classmates and teachers, healthy and strong....

Biking to work has big health benefits

June 27, 2023

Want to improve your health? Bike to Work Day is a wonderful opportunity to see if bicycle commuting works for your schedule and lifestyle. Biking to work is an easy way to regularly fit in a workout, improving your physical and mental health. It can also help you save money, benefit the environment, and (with a well-planned route) allow you to escape the stressful traffic of a morning and evening commute....

Celebrate Family Health & Fitness Day By Getting Outdoors

June 8, 2023

Research has shown that parks, trails and other outdoor activities provide a connection to nature, which relieves stress, strengthens interpersonal relationships and improves mental and physical health. Park and recreation agencies are vital to connecting community members to programs, services and facilities that improve health outcomes and enhance quality of life....

Follow These Steps To Ensure Your Family Is Swimming Safely

May 22, 2023

Summer is here, and in Colorado, it starts the busy swimming season! Swimming is a great way to stay physically active, have fun and relax while enjoying the company of friends and family. El Paso County Public Health (EPCPH) wants to remind swimmers to protect themselves and their loved ones from getting sick while enjoying the pool, hot tub/spa, or water playground....