Polk County Public Health

10/22/2026

Breast cancer doesn’t care about gender — but stigma and silence are putting men at risk.

💡 Most men don’t realize they can get breast cancer.
😔 Many don’t check. Some feel ashamed to speak up.
🩺 And that’s why too many are diagnosed too late.

Early detection starts with awareness — and a simple self-exam. Check your chest. Look for lumps, swelling, ni**le changes, or pain. It only takes a minute, and it could save your life.

Let’s talk about it.

10/22/2026

🎃 Keep Halloween fun—and safe—for your pets! 🐾

Halloween treats and decorations can pose hidden risks for curious pets. Keep candy, glow sticks, and small plastic toys out of reach, and choose pet-safe treats and costumes without loose or dangling parts.

🐶🐱 Make sure your pet’s ID is up to date, too, in case they get spooked and slip away.

Have a safe and happy Halloween with your four-legged friends! 👻🐾

10/22/2026

🍂 Flu season is here. The best way to reduce your risk of getting sick this fall and winter is to get your annual flu vaccine.

If you're an eligible Minnesota adult who doesn't have vaccine coverage, you may qualify for the UUAV Program.

Contact your healthcare provider or local public health office to schedule your flu shot and stay protected this season.

10/21/2026

Dental sealants are a safe & easy way to help protect your child's teeth against tooth decay. 🦷🦷🦷 Call your dental provider today to schedule your next appointment!

10/21/2026

Losing your baby is an unimaginable loss. WIC honors those navigating this difficult and heartbreaking time, and we are here to support you. 🩵

When you are ready, connect with a WIC clinic for resources and support to help you during this time. You can continue receiving WIC benefits for up to six months following your loss.

You are not alone. WIC is here to care for you during hard times. 💗 also offers helpful resources for families navigating pregnancy and infant loss. Visit www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancyandinfantlossmonth to learn more.

10/20/2026

💜 Intimate partner violence can affect anyone, and it’s important to know that help is available. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, reach out to local resources for support and safety.

You are not alone. There is help, and there is hope. 💜

10/20/2026

10/20/2026

Tricks are fun — but when it comes to treats, safety comes first. Here’s how to make sure your child’s Halloween haul is safe to enjoy:

👻 Stick to Store-Bought Treats
Remind kids not to eat anything that isn’t commercially wrapped. Check all candy for signs of tampering—like unusual colors, pinholes, or torn packaging. When in doubt, toss it out.

🧁 Be Allergy-Aware
If your child has food allergies, double-check labels before letting them dig in. Skip any homemade treats or baked goods—ingredients may not be safe.

🕸️ Watch for Choking Hazards
For toddlers and young children, remove small candies, gum, peanuts, or tiny toys that could pose a choking risk.

Let’s keep Halloween fun, festive, and safe for every child!

10/19/2026

As autumn arrives, it's the perfect time to tidy up your medicine cabinet. Unused or expired prescription medications are a public safety issue. Proper disposal of unneeded drugs saves lives and protects the environment and our overall community.

Dispose of your unneeded Rx drugs, no questions asked! Check out our local medication drop off sites:
🔹Crookston Police Department | 321 W Robert Street | Crookston
🔹Riverview Recovery Center - MedSafe Bin | 721 S Minnesota Street | Crookston
🔹East Grand Forks Police Department | 520 Demers Ave | EGF
🔹Fosston City Clerk's Office | 220 E 1st St. | Fosston
🔹Polk County Sheriff’s Office (Lobby) | 600 Bruce St. | Crookston

TOGETHER WE CAN prevent and stop opioid misuse and opioid use disorder.

10/19/2026