Cochise County Health Department
Healthy Cochise
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Your Partner in Keeping Cochise County Healthy
In Cochise County, staying healthy means having access to reliable information and local support. Cochise County Health & Social Services aims to provide this every day.
The Health Department serves communities from Bisbee to Benson, Sierra Vista to Douglas, and Willcox. They offer many services to keep families informed, protected, and connected to care. These services include immunizations, maternal and child health programs, WIC nutrition support, monitoring infectious diseases, food safety education, environmental health services, and preparedness planning. This is public health designed for your community.
“Transparency and trust are at the center of our work. As the rural public health director, I want to help our community stay healthy by sharing practical information about infectious diseases and foodborne illnesses. I won't tell people what to believe or do. My goal is to provide honest, useful information, explain the reasons behind health recommendations, listen to community concerns, and empower people to make informed decisions for themselves and their families. By working with our community and being clear about what we know and what we don't know, we can build trust and work together to keep our neighbors healthy and safe,” Barbara Lang, Health Director, Cochise County Health & Social Services
Right now, we are reaching out to residents about two important health risks: cyclosporiasis and West Nile Virus.
Cyclosporiasis is an illness caused by a small parasite called Cyclospora, found on fresh produce. There have been no cases in Cochise County, but we want to help residents lower their risk. Here are some simple steps: wash fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water, use a clean brush for firm items like melons and cucumbers, buy whole heads of lettuce instead of pre-cut mixes in summer, discard the outer leaves, and cook food when unsure. Cooking to at least 158°F kills the parasite, which is especially important for meals prepared for young children, older adults, or anyone with a weakened immune system. Watch for symptoms like watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, fatigue, and nausea that can last a week or more.
Mosquito bites can be irritating and can spread viruses, including West Nile Virus, Zika virus, and Dengue Virus. These illnesses can cause fever, headaches, body aches, and sometimes serious problems. Preventing mosquito bites is the best way to protect yourself.
To keep the community informed, Director Lang will share monthly updates on current projects and initiatives, including tips on disease prevention, available services, and ways to stay healthy throughout the year.
For more information, contact the Cochise County Health Department at 520-432-9400 or visit www.cochise.az.gov. Our offices in Bisbee, Sierra Vista, Douglas, Willcox, and Benson are ready to serve you.
We can help reduce your risk with simple steps, Cochise County Health and Social Services.
Vision
We work together to promote, protect, and improve the health and quality of life through exceptional public health services and education.
