Emergency Preparedness for Andrew County Families
May 14, 2025

Emergency situations can occur with little warning, making advance preparation essential for protecting your family's safety and well-being. The Andrew County Health Department provides resources and guidance to help residents prepare for various emergency scenarios that may affect our community.


Common Emergency Situations in Andrew County

Andrew County residents may face several types of emergency situations, including tornadoes, flash floods, ice storms and power outages, disease outbreaks, heat waves, and hazardous material incidents. Understanding these potential risks helps families prepare appropriately for local conditions.


Building an Emergency Supply Kit

An emergency supply kit should contain essential items to sustain your family for at least 72 hours. Basic supplies include bottled water (one gallon per person per day), non-perishable food and manual can opener, flashlight with extra batteries, first aid kit, phone chargers and power banks, weather radio, personal hygiene items, medications and medical supplies, extra clothing and blankets, copies of important documents, and cash in small bills.


Customize your emergency kit based on the specific needs of household members, including infants, seniors, pets, or individuals with medical conditions requiring special supplies.


Creating a Family Emergency Plan

A family emergency plan should address key elements including escape routes from your home and neighborhood, designated meeting locations both near your home and outside your immediate area, emergency contact information with phone numbers memorized by all family members, and communication methods for staying in touch if separated during an emergency.


Keep printed copies of your emergency plan in multiple locations including backpacks, vehicles, and emergency supply kits.


Staying Informed During Emergencies

The Andrew County Health Department provides important health and safety information during emergency situations. This may include severe weather warnings, public shelter locations, boil water advisories, road closures and detours, and disease outbreak or exposure alerts.


Residents should sign up for local alert systems, follow official social media accounts, check the health department website regularly during emergencies, and maintain a weather radio for updates when other communication methods are unavailable.


Home Preparedness Measures

Consider implementing safety measures in your home such as anchoring large furniture to prevent tipping, installing and maintaining smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms, keeping vehicle fuel tanks at least half full, maintaining property by trimming trees and clearing gutters, and reviewing insurance policies to understand coverage.


Preparing Children for Emergencies

Help children understand emergency procedures through age-appropriate discussions and practice. Ensure children know how to call 911, recognize emergency alarms, locate exits, find your emergency kit, and contact a trusted adult. Regular practice of emergency procedures can help children respond appropriately during actual emergencies.


Andrew County Health Department Emergency Services

The health department participates in emergency preparedness and response through coordination with local and state emergency response agencies, community health alerts and safety communications, public health response during disease outbreaks, assistance with emergency shelter information and public messaging, and preparedness resources and planning materials.


Additional Resources

For emergency preparedness resources, planning templates, and local emergency information, visit andrewcountyhealth.com or contact the Andrew County Health Department directly. The department provides community-specific guidance and tools to support family emergency planning efforts.

Community Health Screenings in Andrew County

May 28, 2025
The Andrew County Health Department provides various health screening services to help residents monitor their health status. These screenings are designed to detect potential health concerns early and provide information that individuals can discuss with their healthcare providers. What Are Health Screenings? Health screenings are basic tests or checks that can identify potential health concerns. These screenings are not diagnostic tests and do not replace visits to primary care providers. They serve as preliminary assessments that can indicate whether further medical evaluation may be warranted. Available Screening Services The Andrew County Health Department offers several types of health screenings including blood pressure checks, vision and hearing screenings, STD and HIV testing, tuberculosis testing, and blood sugar and cholesterol screenings at special events. These screenings are conducted by trained public health professionals in private settings, with results typically available during the visit or within a few days for laboratory tests. Screening Process Each type of screening follows specific procedures. Blood pressure screenings involve using a cuff to measure blood pressure, which takes approximately one minute. Vision screenings test visual clarity using eye charts. STD testing may involve collecting samples such as urine or swabs for laboratory analysis, with confidential results provided within a few days. Hearing screenings use headphones to test hearing range across different sound frequencies. Most screenings require minimal preparation and no extensive paperwork. Individuals who receive results indicating potential concerns are provided with referral information for follow-up care with healthcare providers of their choice. Privacy and Confidentiality All screening services follow strict public health privacy standards. Personal health information and results are shared only with the individual being screened. This confidential approach is particularly important for sensitive services such as HIV or STD testing, which are provided in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. Screening Locations and Events The Andrew County Health Department conducts screenings at their office location and participates in community outreach events throughout the year. These outreach activities may include local school events, community health fairs, back-to-school events, workplace wellness programs, and mobile clinics in rural areas. Information about upcoming screening events and locations is available on the health department's website and social media channels. Preparation for Screenings Most screenings require minimal preparation. General recommendations include wearing clothing with short sleeves for easy access during blood pressure or tuberculosis testing, bringing a list of current medications, avoiding caffeine before blood pressure screenings as it may temporarily affect readings, and bringing identification if requested, though most screenings are open to all residents. Individuals with specific questions about preparation can contact the health department in advance. Accessibility and Cost Many screening services are available at no cost or low cost to residents. These services are generally accessible to the public regardless of insurance status. Some screenings operate on a walk-in basis, while others may require scheduling. Contact information and availability details can be obtained by calling the health department. Community Health Impact Health screenings contribute to community health monitoring by helping identify health trends and needs within the population. This information assists public health officials in developing appropriate community health programs and responses. Contact Information For information about upcoming screening events, scheduling, costs, and specific screening services, visit andrewcountyhealth.com or contact the Andrew County Health Department directly. Current screening schedules and locations are regularly updated on the department's website and social media platforms.

Food Safety Inspections in Andrew County

May 21, 2025
The Andrew County Health Department conducts routine food safety inspections to help prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure food service establishments comply with local and state health regulations. These inspections are part of the department's environmental health services that protect public health in the community. Purpose of Food Safety Inspections Food safety inspections are routine visits conducted by trained environmental health specialists to verify that food service establishments follow regulations for safe food handling, sanitation, and hygiene practices. These inspections help identify and address potential food safety issues before they can affect public health. Types of Establishments Inspected Food safety inspections cover various types of food service operations including restaurants and cafes, food trucks and mobile vendors, school cafeterias, grocery stores and deli counters, temporary food booths at fairs or events, and church or nonprofit kitchens that serve the public. Any establishment that serves food to the public is subject to periodic inspections to ensure consistent safety practices across all food service environments. Inspection Components During inspections, environmental health specialists evaluate several areas related to food safety based on the Missouri Food Code. Inspection items include proper food temperatures for storage and cooking, cleanliness of food preparation areas and equipment, handwashing stations and employee hygiene practices, proper labeling and storage of chemicals, pest control and facility maintenance, dishwashing and sanitizing procedures, and safe food handling and cross-contamination prevention measures. Each inspection follows a standardized checklist, and inspectors provide written reports documenting observations and any violations found. Types of Violations Violations are categorized as either non-critical or critical. Non-critical violations, such as missing paper towels at handwashing stations or unlabeled cleaning supplies, can often be corrected immediately during the inspection. Critical violations involve more serious food safety risks, such as improper food temperatures or pest issues. These violations require follow-up inspections and, in severe cases, may result in temporary closure until the problem is resolved. The health department works with establishments to ensure violations are corrected promptly and properly. Public Health Impact Food safety inspections help prevent foodborne illnesses that can particularly affect vulnerable populations including young children, older adults, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Regular inspections help identify and correct food safety risks before they can cause illness outbreaks. Consumer Role in Food Safety Residents can contact the Andrew County Health Department to inquire about inspection reports or report food safety concerns. Public records for inspections may be available upon request. Event organizers working with food vendors can coordinate with the health department to ensure safety regulations are followed. Additional Food Safety Services Beyond inspections, the Andrew County Health Department provides food handler training and certification, plan reviews for new or remodeled food establishments, temporary food permit assistance for events, consultations for safe food handling practices, and resources on Missouri Food Code updates and guidelines. These services support food service operators in maintaining compliance with safety regulations while operating their businesses. Contact Information For information about food safety regulations, inspection reports, or food service operator resources, contact the Andrew County Health Department or visit andrewcountyhealth.com. The environmental health team provides support for food safety compliance throughout Andrew County. 

Services Offered by the Andrew County Health Department

May 7, 2025
The Andrew County Health Department provides essential public health services to residents throughout the community. From immunizations to environmental inspections, these services support the health and safety of individuals and families in Andrew County. Immunizations and Vaccines The health department offers a comprehensive immunization program for all ages. Available vaccines include influenza, Tdap, HPV, Hepatitis A and B, MMR, COVID-19, and varicella vaccines, among others. Many vaccines are available at reduced cost or no cost, particularly for children eligible for the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. Contact the department to confirm vaccine availability and schedule appointments. WIC Nutrition Program The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program provides nutrition support to pregnant women, new mothers, and children under age five. Services include supplemental foods, nutrition education, and breastfeeding support. WIC is an income-based program administered through the health department. Eligibility requirements and application information are available on the department's website. Vital Records Services The Andrew County Health Department issues certified copies of Missouri birth and death certificates to eligible individuals. Required documentation includes valid photo identification, completed application forms, and applicable fees. These certified records are commonly needed for school enrollment, passport applications, and Social Security benefits. Services are available in person or by mail, with forms and instructions available on the department's website. Health Screenings and Preventive Services The department offers various health screenings to support early detection and prevention, including blood pressure checks, HIV testing, STD testing, hearing and vision screenings, and tuberculosis testing. These screenings are available to the public at low cost or free of charge depending on the specific service. While these screenings complement regular healthcare, they do not replace care from a healthcare provider. Environmental Health Services Environmental health staff conduct inspections and monitoring to protect public health and safety. This includes oversight of food establishments, child care facilities, water quality, sewage systems, and temporary food events. These inspections ensure compliance with local and state health codes to prevent foodborne illness and environmental health risks. The department also provides education and guidance to food service operators and other regulated facilities. Child Care Health Consultations The health department supports local child care providers through health consultations and guidance. Services include immunization record reviews, environmental safety assessments, sanitation standards guidance, and illness prevention protocols. These consultations help child care facilities maintain compliance with Missouri regulations while protecting the health of children and staff. Community Health Education Educational programs and resources are provided to promote community health and wellness. Topics covered include nutrition and physical activity, breastfeeding support, tobacco prevention, mental wellness, and emergency preparedness. Educational opportunities are promoted through the department's website and social media channels. Emergency Preparedness The health department collaborates with local and state agencies on emergency preparedness and response activities. Resources include preparedness checklists, emergency supply recommendations, information about local shelters and relief programs, and public health alerts.  Residents can access preparedness resources and sign up for emergency alerts through the department's communication channels. Contact Information For more information about these services, eligibility requirements, fees, or to schedule appointments, visit the Andrew County Health Department website at andrewcountyhealth.com or contact the department directly.