Navajo Nation Health Education Program/Division of Public Health Services

01/12/2026

January is Cervical Awareness Month.

Along with screening and early detection, the HPV vaccine is another important tool to prevent cervical cancer.

HPV vaccination helps prevent infection from several high-risk HPV types that can lead to cervical cancer as well as low-risk types that cause ge***al warts. On addition to preventing cervical cancer, the vaccine has been approved for the prevention of other types of HPV-related cancers:
a**l
vulvar
vaginal
head and neck

HPV Vaccination Recommendations: 

Starting Early Means Fewer Doses and Better Protection

The vaccine is recommended for all young people at age 11 or 12 regardless of s*x assigned at birth or gender, although vaccination can begin as early as age 9. Because the vaccine produces a stronger immune response when taken during the pr***en years, only two doses are the vaccine are required through age 14.

Starting at Age 15, Three Doses Are Required

Catch-up vaccinations are recommended up to age 26. For those that get a first dose between age 15 and 26, three doses are required. Anyone in that age group who did not have the vaccine should get one. While people in this age group may have had s*x and been exposed to HPV, the vaccine is still recommended as it can prevent infection with other types of HPV.

The HPV Vaccine is Approved Up to Age 45

The vaccine is approved for use in adults ages 27-45, but is not recommended for everyone in this age group. This is because the vaccine is less likely to provide much benefit at this age when most adults have been s*xually active and likely exposed to HPV. The ACIP recommends “shared decision making” for this age group, meaning individuals should make decision with their providers based on their own history and risk factors.

The most important message is that early vaccination is best. We can eliminate cervical cancer with widespread early vaccination.

https://www.nccc-online.org/hpv-vaccines/   StopHPVCancer

01/09/2026

Our thyroid produces hormones regulating metabolism, energy, heart rate, brain function, and body temperature. Some common thyroid conditions and some symptoms are Hypothyroidism, under active, causing slow metabolism, tiredness, cold intolerance, weight gain. Hyperthyroidism, overactive, leading to weight loss, rapid heartbeats, and anxiety. If you feel you would like to know more, you can visit your local outpatient clinic and talk to a doctor about screening.

For more information visit: https://www.thyroid.org/
                       https://www.niddk.nih.gov/

01/07/2026

❄️ INCOMING WINTER WEATHER ALERT ❄️
Snowfall is expected through Thursday night, which may create hazardous travel conditions, including icy roads and limited visibility.
Before traveling, please remember to:
✔️ Check the weather and road conditions before leaving
✔️ Carry an emergency winter weather kit in your vehicle
✔️ Avoid travel if it is not necessary
Please plan ahead, drive with caution, and stay informed through local weather updates. Your safety and well-being are our priority.
Stay safe and stay warm.

01/06/2026

January is National Glaucoma Awareness. Glaucoma is a group of diseases that causes damage to the optic nerve in the eye. It can cause vision loss or even blindness. According to the CDC website, Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness around the world. It is important to get your dilated eye exams every year for early detection and even start treatment. Those at high risk for glaucoma are people over the age of 60, family history of glaucoma, those who have diabetes, and African Americans.

For more information, visit the following websites;

CDC.gov: https://www.cdc.gov/vision-health/about-eye-disorders/glaucoma.html

Discover Eye Foundation: https://discoveryeye.org/national-glaucoma-awareness-month/

01/05/2026

Keep it wrapped this holiday season.

Protect yourself from Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) this season.

With Syphilis cases on the rise, using protection and getting tested are important in keeping yourself healthy.

Here are some reminders to prevent getting a STI:

Use protection every time.

There are medications like DoxyPrEP to prevent transmission.

Transmission occurs through direct contact of an infected person's sores or rash.

Untreated infections can lead to health problems that can affect your brain.

Reduce the amount of partners you have.

Get tested at your nearest clinic or facility to know your status.

For more information, visit About Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) | STI | CDC

12/29/2025

Fresher breath means longer lasting smiles
Do you want a fresher breath? Or do you want to keep your teeth as you age?
Keep these tips in mind to help keep your teeth strong and healthy:
Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
Always floss your teeth
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace every 3-4 months.
Eat a healthy diet and limit sugary snacks and beverages
Schedule your dental check-ups every 6 months.

For more information, visit https://www.mouthhealthy.org/oral-health-recommendations

12/23/2025

12/18/2025

Did you know Norovirus is highly contagious? Norovirus, also called the "stomach flu," can be prevented and stopped from spreading. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water; hand sanitizer alone is not effective against norovirus. Do not prepare, handle food, or care for others when you are sick. Wait at least 48 hours after symptoms stop. This is important if you work in a restaurant, school, daycare, long-term care facility, or other places where you may expose people to norovirus.

For more information visit: https://www.cdc.gov/norovirus/prevention/index.html

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevetion: CDC.gov

12/12/2025

Attention Swifties‼️ Join us for Taylor Swift's Birthday Bash🎉

12/03/2025

Flu vaccination is very safe and the best way to prevent flu and its complications. There are many reasons to get an influenza (flu) vaccine each year.

To learn more, visit cdc.gov/flu-vaccines-work/benefits

12/02/2025

Remember to keep your hands clean to protect yourself and others from getting sick this fall/winter season. Washing your hands is the best way to prevent germs from spreading like the cold/flu.

For more information: https://www.cdc.gov/clean-hands/about/index.html