Summer News You Can Use

Dog Bites

Last year, Public Health Madison & Dane County responded to 764 calls involving dog bites. Being bitten by a dog can result in emotional and physical pain, injury, infection (see picture), and can be fatal. Nearly 1 in 5 people bitten by a dog requires medical attention. Children are bitten more commonly than adults and are more likely to have severe injuries from a bite. While we all think our dog would never bite, the truth is that it's not always the dog. Sometimes it's the situation. 

 A little prevention goes a long way in preventing dog bites. Learn how to read your dog's, and other people's dogs' body language. This can tell you if a dog does not want you to interact with it. Socialize your dog. Training classes are a great way to help your dog feel comfortable in all different situations and around different people. Perfect for puppies and even for older dogs!  

Read to learn more about the common situations where they see dogs bite, bite prevention tips, and how to be a good pet owner!  

Tick and Mosquito Bites

 and tick bites, and the diseases they carry.  

• Use insect repellent, with at least one of the following: 20-30% DEET, 10-20% picaridin, 10-20% IR3535, or 30-40% oil of lemon eucalyptus  
• Dump out standing water in your yard, where mosquitoes love to lay eggs. 
• Wear long, loose fitting clothing when hiking, gardening, or fishing. 
• Do a tick check after being outside and remove any ticks with tweezers.
• If you notice a fever or rash after a tick bite, check in with your doctor. 

 Get more information

Summer Air Quality in Dane County: What to Know

Hot, humid days, vehicle emissions, and occasional wildfire smoke can lead to unhealthy air in Dane County this summer. Even short-term exposure can affect your lungs and heart, especially for children, older adults, and people with asthma or other respiratory conditions.

On poor air quality days, you may notice more coughing and troubled breathing, irritated eyes or throat, and, even, headaches. To reduce your risk, check out the Air Quality Index (AQI) before heading outside. You should also limit strenuous outdoor activity and/or spend more time indoors with filtered air (keeping windows closed, if needed) when air quality is poor. 

This guide from AirNow.gov explains the six air quality indexes, who needs to be concerned with each one, and what they should do. 

Small steps can make a big difference for your health this summer! Stay informed and plan ahead by visiting AirNow.gov or sign up for local alerts.