Southwestern District Health Unit

01/16/2026

Here is an update on respiratory illness cases and hospitalizations in ND that were reported to HHS for the week ending Jan. 10, 2026. See details: hhs.nd.gov/health/respiratory-illnesses

01/14/2026

❄️Winter Mood Boosters❄️
"You don’t have to do everything—just something."

🌤 Small steps can make a big difference.

Try these winter mood boosters:
☀️ Get outside when you can
🚶Move your body (even a little)
😴 Stick to consistent sleep routines
💬 Stay connected

You don’t have to do everything—just something.

01/14/2026

Evolving ni****ne market dominating young people - more below📈

The to***co industry continues to aggressively target young people by manufacturing and marketing products that appeal to young people, including high-tech “smart” vapes, flavored oral ni****ne pouches, and disposable e-cigarettes.

01/13/2026

All Southwestern District Health Unit offices will be closed January 19th for Martin Luther King Day.

01/09/2026

Here is an update on respiratory illness cases and hospitalizations in ND that were reported to HHS for the week ending Jan. 3, 2026. Influenza activity remains high with 5,166 cases reported including new influenza-associated hospitalizations and deaths. See details: hhs.nd.gov/health/respiratory-illnesses

01/07/2026

Tips on Screen Time Boundaries🤓

While new tech is fun 📱, it’s also the perfect moment to set boundaries around screen time ⏱️.

✅ Agree on daily screen limits
🏠 Create tech-free zones in the house
⚖️ Encourage balance: online time + offline family activities

Teaching kids to use screens thoughtfully helps them build lifelong healthy habits 🎁💡
Learn more at: https://bit.ly/47f2ALL

01/07/2026

Is it just the 'winter blues' or seasonal affective disorder (SAD)? Learn the signs and symptoms of SAD, a type of depression, and how to get help: samhsa.gov/mental-health/seasonal-affective-disorder

01/06/2026

Try these simple ways to connect during meals🍽️🙌⬇️

01/02/2026

Tis the season - flu (influenza) season, and cases are up. Flu can be serious, even leading to hospitalization and death. Those most at risk include children ages 5 and younger, pregnant women, older adults and those with underlying health conditions. That's why influenza vaccination is recommended annually for all individuals ages 6 months and older. It's not too late to get immunized or to talk to your health care provider if you have questions. Learn more about respiratory illnesses at hhs.nd.gov/health/respiratory-illnesses

12/31/2025

Happy ! If you’re feeling triggered or in need of extra support tonight, you’re not alone and help is available. Help yourself & share to help others: samhsa.gov/find-help

12/30/2025

What if that “just a cold” isn’t as simple as it seems?

As the weather turns colder and we all start to pick up coughs and sniffles, recognising early symptoms can be a vital clue. It’s especially important for older adults and people with existing health conditions to know when they might need extra support from a healthcare professional.

We've put together some insights on how cold, flu, COVID-19, and RSV can feel similar at first, which small differences to watch for.

Learn more here: https://gsk.to/4pCN95F