SSM Health - Madison

🌫️ Canadian and Minnesota wildfire smoke is blanketing parts of Wisconsin with haze, causing unhealthy air quality conditions across the state.

Wildfire smoke contains tiny particles that can irritate your eyes and throat and may affect your heart and lungs, especially for children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with heart or respiratory conditions.

Take steps to protect yourself and your family:
✅ Stay indoors when possible
✅ Keep windows and doors closed
✅ Run your air conditioner on recirculate with a clean, high-efficiency filter
✅ Avoid strenuous outdoor activities and exercise
✅ Wear a well-fitting N95 respirator if you must spend time outdoors
✅ Use an air purifier if available

Before heading outside, check current air quality conditions and monitor updates throughout the day. If you experience symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath, take a break and move indoors.

Learn more and monitor Wisconsin air quality conditions: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/AirQuality/WildfireSmoke.html

Hearing the word ‘Cyclospora’ a lot more this summer?

Here's what you should know:

Cyclospora is a parasite that causes illness (cyclosporiasis) every year. People most often become infected by eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water. Often, the culprit is fresh produce that is eaten raw – like lettuce or berries.

Symptoms usually begin about a week or two after exposure. They include: watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, gas, nausea, and fatigue.

It’s important to contact your healthcare provider if diarrhea lasts more than a few days. Seek medical care right away if you have a high fever or blood in your stool.

You can help to protect against Cyclospora and other foodborne illnesses by:

🖐️Washing hands frequently with soap and water
🍓Thoroughly rinsing fresh fruits and vegetables before eating them
🔪Using separate cutting boards for raw meats and produce
🌡️Always keeping hot foods hot and cold foods cold
🤧Avoiding food preparation for others when you're sick
🧼Regularly cleaning and disinfecting shared surfaces

Small habits can make a big difference in preventing stomach illnesses and keeping your family healthy.