Community Announcements

School & Childcare

Schools & Childcare | Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Skip to main content Health & Wellness Schools & Childcare Guidelines and resources necessary to maintain healthy learning environments for children. Search FEATURED Mental Health for Children & Adolescents 2026 Immunization Requirements FEATURED Mental Health for Children & Adolescents 2026 Immunization Requirements School Health Overview How school health programs and school nurses support the physical, mental and emotional well-being of students to foster academic success. Online Reporting System Tracking portal for school health personnel to efficiently document and report mandatory health data to state public health authorities. School Immunizations State vaccine requirements, school immunization schedules and guidelines to help you navigate your child's health. Laws, Rules & Regulations A centralized directory of Missouri laws, rules and regulations regarding school health and student safety. Free Resources Explore our collection of free educational materials, social media templates and posters to support health and wellness in your community. Available to order in print copies or downloadable files. Browse Free Resources

Antibiotic Resistance

Antibiotic Resistance | Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Skip to main content Antibiotic Resistance Topic Menu Prevention Tips Antibiotic Stewardship Program Clinicians What is Antibiotic Resistance? Contact Missouri Department of Health and Senior ServicesPO Box 570Jefferson City, MO 65102-0570Phone: 573-751-6113 or (toll-free) 866-628-9891Fax: 573-526-0235Email: [email protected] When used properly, antibiotics can make a world of difference –– in some cases, a lifesaving difference –– for the millions of U.S. adults and children afflicted with bacterial infections and illnesses each year. But when used incorrectly, antibiotics can cause harm. Through overuse or misuse of antibiotics, bacteria can develop resistance to the antibiotics designed to destroy them. This resistance has health officials worldwide increasingly concerned. Use the information and links on this page to find out more about ways to use antibiotics safely. By taking the right steps now, you can help ensure that antibiotics remain effective to protect you and your family from many types of infections. Frequently Asked Questions

Women, Infants & Children (WIC)

Women, Infants & Children (WIC) | Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Skip to main content Women, Infants & Children (WIC) Topic Menu WIC Families Missouri WIC Income Guidelines WIC Approved Food List Toggle submenu Breastfeeding & WIC Missouri WIC Breastfeeding Support WIC Health Care Providers WIC Partner Organizations Toggle submenu Authorized Missouri WIC Retailers & Pharmacies MO WIC Scoop WIC Manufacturers & Distributors WIC Retailer Distributor, Wholesaler & Manufacturer List WIC Retailer Application WIC Retailer Food & Formula Reference Guide WIC Local Agency Portal Data & Statistical Reports-WIC Toggle submenu Nondiscrimination Statement Report Fraud Missouri WIC Job Opportunities WIC State Plan for Comments Contact Information WIC and Nutrition Services Missouri Department of Health and Senior ServicesPO Box 570Jefferson City, MO 65102-0570 Telephone: 573-751-6204 or(toll-free) 800-392-8209Fax: 573-526-1470 Email [email protected] Phone 573-751-6204 The Missouri WIC program provides supplemental food, health care referrals, nutrition education and breastfeeding promotion and support to eligible pregnant, breastfeeding and postpartum women, infants and children up to age five. Fathers, grandparents, guardians and foster parents may also apply for benefits for the children living in their household. How can we help? Select who you are I am a...Breastfeeding MotherBusiness ProfessionalHealth care providerLactation ProfessionalLocal AgencyManufacturerParticipantPartner OrganizationResidentRetailer Select what you need to do I need to... Leave this field blank Am I eligible? Must live in Missouri. Meet the income guidelines.Foster children under 5 are automatically eligible for WIC benefits. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assistance (TA) participants and participants of income-qualifying MO HealthNet are automatically eligible for WIC benefits. Meet a below category:Pregnant woman. Breastfeeding woman until the infant’s first birthday. Postpartum women up to six months after delivery or end of pregnancy. Infants. Children until their 5th birthday. Still unsure? Use the prescreen tool or call a WIC local agency. I am eligible. What happens next? Qualified individuals must apply by completing a certification appointment with a WIC local agency, which includes a health assessment and nutrition education. All applicants will need to bring the following to the certification appointment.Proof of identity.Adults: photo ID, such as driver's license, passport, voter ID card, state ID card or military ID card. Infants and children: birth certificate, hospital records or immunization records. Proof of residency.Pay stub with name and physical address. Most recent utility bill or personal bill. Current rent or mortgage receipt. Voter ID card. Proof of income.SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), TA (Temporary Assistance) and most Medicaid participants are automatically eligible for WIC, so no proof of income is needed. Current pay stubs. W-2 forms or income tax returns. Unemployment letter or notice. The WIC local agency can help offer alternatives if these documents are not available. How do I apply? Complete the online interest form and have a WIC local agency contact you. Call a WIC local agency. The blue pins on the locations map show all agencies along with their phone numbers and addresses. Contact TEL-LINK at 1-800-TEL-LINK or 1-800-835-5465 Frequently Asked Questions

Environmental Factors

Many things in the environment can affect our health. Environmental public health is the branch of public health that focuses on the relationship between the environment and human health. Our department's environmental public health professionals work to help reduce health risks from exposure to potentially harmful substances in air, water, soil and food. Health officials also provide information to communities about exposure to hazardous substances and sites while discussing ways to reduce exposure until the risk is eliminated. Overall, environmental public health plays an important role in protecting the well-being of communities by making sure the places we live, work and play are safe. Lead Lead poisoning is one of the most common and preventable environmental health problems in Missouri. Childhood lead exposure can cause learning and behavioral problems, lower IQ, kidney damage, and interfere with growth and hearing. The only way to know if your child has lead poisoning is to have their blood tested. Indoor Air Clean indoor air is necessary for good health. Indoor air pollutants can contribute to asthma and allergic reactions, chemical poisoning and some types of cancer. The quality of indoor air is a significant health concern throughout the state because Missourians spend an average of 90% of their time inside. Research shows that air pollution levels are higher indoors than outside. Radon Radon is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that poses a health risk to humans when it is found inside homes and other buildings. Exposure to radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. You can test your home for radon and take steps to reduce the level of radon in indoor air. Septic Systems Onsite wastewater treatment systems are used by about 25% of all homes in Missouri. Sewage systems that are not operating correctly can create a health risk. In most areas of Missouri, you must get a permit to construct an onsite sewage system from our department or a local public health agency. Wastewater Surveillance Wastewater from communities is monitored for genetic indicators of viruses and other diseases. This surveillance approach helps to track the prevalence of many diseases in communities across the state. Water Wells Thousands of Missourians get their water from a private water supply, usually a well. Our department works to make sure that drinking water is safe. We provide technical assistance to homeowners and local public health agencies regarding water testing and treatment. The program also regulates private water supplies of hotels, motels and restaurants to make sure the water meets safe drinking water standards.

Overdose Prevention & Response

Drug overdoses are the #1 leading cause of death for adults aged 18-44 in Missouri. The devastating impact of substance use and overdose places a tremendous burden on our families, communities and healthcare systems. Missouri is committed to supporting those impacted by substance use through education, resources and access to treatment. One in three people have been impacted by the opioid crisis. If you or a loved one has been impacted, help is available. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat with the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Time2Act Fatal Drug Overdose Dashboard Safer Choices for People Who Use Drugs Stay Safe Toolkit Missouri Opioid Overdose & Bloodborne Infection Vulnerability Assessments Prescription Drug Collection Locator Voluntary Non-Opioid Directive (Optional Discussion Tool for Patients to Share … Naloxone Standing Order Free Training for First Responders Take the Overdose Education and Naloxone Administration Trainings for First Responders. Both options are free and will help first responders, healthcare providers and other professionals learn the best practices for treating an opioid overdose. Access to Naloxone Naloxone is a medicine that quickly reverses an opioid overdose. It is an opioid antagonist. This means that it attaches to opioid receptors and reverses and blocks the effects of any opioids. Naloxone can quickly restore normal breathing to a person if their breathing has slowed or stopped because of an opioid overdose. But, naloxone has no effect on someone who does not have opioids in their system, and it is not a treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD). Use naloxone for anyone showing signs of an opioid overdose, or if you suspect an overdose. It will not hurt someone who is not overdosing on opioids. It takes 3 to 5 minutes to see naloxone’s lifesaving effects and they last anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes. If the person overdosing is still not breathing after 2-3 minutes, give another dose of naloxone and watch for signs of breathing for another 2-3 minutes. We have collaborated with the Missouri Institute of Mental Health and the Department of Mental Health for the coordination of naloxone distribution. Find places where you can get naloxone. Resources Responding to Opioids in Missouri (zine) Responding to Opioids in Missouri (Spanish version)

Immunizations

Immunizations Topic Menu Resources for Healthcare Professionals Me & My Family Childcare ShowMeVax Tips for Locating, Maintaining & Storing Immunization Records Vaccines for Children Program Vaccines for Children 411 Training Immunization Laws & Regulations Vaccine Guidance & Safety Information Vaccine Guidance & Safety Information Related Links Information for Providers Information for Parents Order Tools & Materials Travel Vaccine Contact Information Bureau of Immunizations Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services PO Box 570 930 Wildwood Dr Jefferson City, MO 65102-0570 Phone: 573-751-6124 Toll-Free: 800-219-3224 Fax: 573-526-0238 Email: [email protected] VFC - ShowMeVax Helpdesk Toll-Free: 866-256-3166 Fax: 573-526-5220 Email: [email protected] Vaccines for Children Program (VFC) Phone: 800-219-3224 Fax: 573-526-0238 Vaccines for Children Regional Contacts For their sake. For your sake. Vaccinate. Vaccines are safe and effective. Vaccine-preventable diseases are at an all-time low thanks to more people being vaccinated, saving lives and millions of dollars in health care costs, but this doesn't mean the diseases have disappeared. Many viruses and bacteria are still circulating. This is why it is important for everyone to receive all of the recommended immunizations on time. Most vaccine-preventable diseases are caused by germs called viruses or bacteria. Vaccines to help prevent these diseases generally contain weakened or dead viruses or bacteria specific to the disease. Vaccines help your body recognize and fight these germs and protect you each time you come in contact with someone who is sick with any of these diseases. Missouri's immunization program is working to stop the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases by providing vaccines to children and adolescents who cannot pay for them through the Vaccines for Children Program; educating health care professionals, medical providers and the public on the importance of vaccinations; and ensuring that children who are in child care and school are adequately immunized against diseases that are harmful and sometimes deadly. Resources for Healthcare Professionals Me & My Family Childcare School Immunizations Vaccines for Children Clinic Locator ShowMeVax Immunization Information System

Genetic Disease & Early Childhood

The Human Genome Project (HGP) We currently know more about our DNA than we ever have before, largely because of the Human Genome Project (HGP). The HGP was an international scientific research program that took place between 1990-2003. By April 2003, the human genome sequence was completed and published for the first time. Nature's complete genetic blueprint for a human being was now known. April 2003 also marked the 50th anniversary of another great achievement in biology—the description of the DNA double helix by James Watson and Francis Crick. The HGP has revealed that there are somewhere between 20,000 and 25,000 human genes. More than 12,000 of these genes have already been discovered in relation to many diseases and more than 800 genetic tests are available. The impact of having the complete human genome is very important for public health. Nine of the top ten causes of death, especially long‑lasting diseases like cancer and heart disease, are linked to our genes and how they interact with things that we can change, like diet or exercise. Your genes are not the only factors that affect your risk for disease! Many children's hospitalizations are due to diseases with large genetic components. Studying the human genome can help geneticists, scientists and healthcare professionals find new interventions that can save lives and prevent disease. Newborn Screening Genetics Genetics is the scientific study of heredity, which is how particular traits are passed from parents to children. Chromosomal abnormalities inherited from the mother and/or father may result in a genetic disorder. Genetic conditions affect all age, economic, social and religious groups. Rapid advances are now occurring in genetic screening/diagnosis, including the ability to link particular genes with specific conditions (cancer, hardening of the arteries, etc.) The Missouri Genetic Disease Program was established for the purpose of increasing general knowledge of genetic conditions, informing residents about the availability of genetic services, and expanding genetic services to outlying areas of the state. Genetic Centers Genetic centers are specialty care centers that specialize in diagnosis, genetic testing, treatment, and counseling for individuals with genetic and metabolic disorders. Newborn Blood Spot Screening Newborn blood spot screening refers to tests performed on newborns shortly after birth to protect them from the dangerous effects of disorders that otherwise may not be detected for several days, months or even years. For over 50 years Missouri law has required all babies born in the state to be screened for certain metabolic, genetic, and endocrine disorders. Whether the baby is born in the hospital or at home, the newborn blood spot screening should be done between 24 and 48 hours of age. Babies who appear healthy and come from healthy families can still have serious medical conditions. Newborn screening helps health professionals identify and treat conditions before they can cause serious health problems, disability or even death. Most babies identified through newborn screening are treated early and grow up healthy. Newborn Hearing Screening Effective January 1, 2002, state law mandates screening the hearing of all infants born in Missouri. The purpose of the Newborn Hearing Screening Program (NHSP) is to identify infants with hearing loss and ensure their linkage with services. Early identification and treatment of hearing loss are essential so that speech, language, and learning can develop as normally as possible. Newborn Screening for Critical Congenital Heart Defects Effective January 1, 2014, state law mandates screening all infants born in Missouri for critical congenital heart defects (CCHD) through pulse oximetry screening. CCHD is the name given to specific congenital heart defects. These defects in the heart occur before birth, cause blood to flow in an abnormal pattern, and may lead to blockage of blood flow throughout the body. If left untreated, these defects can lead to death or can cause serious developmental delay. Pulse oximetry screening is most likely to detect seven specific CCHDs. These include: hypoplastic left heart syndrome, pulmonary atresia, tetralogy of fallot, total anomalous pulmonary venous return, transposition of the great arteries, tricuspid atresia, and truncus arterious. Sickle Cell Anemia Program The Sickle Cell Anemia Program provides information to the public and health professionals about sickle cell anemia and sickle cell trait, and promotes and provides screening, referral, counseling and follow-up services for Missouri citizens at risk for sickle cell disease. Adult Cystic Fibrosis, Sickle Cell and Hemophilia Treatment Programs These treatment programs provide assistance to individuals 21 years of age and over who meet the medical and criteria. These programs provide financial assistance for outpatient and inpatient services, prescription medications, home medical equipment, blood factor products, emergency care and service coordination. Metabolic Formula Program The Metabolic Formula Program assists with the purchase of prescribed dietary formula and provides an annual examination to children and adults diagnosed with medically eligible metabolic disorders such as PKU or Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD). Birth Defects This Registry is a passive system that identifies infants with birth defects by monitoring information submitted on the birth certificates, hospital patient abstracts, death certificates, and special health care needs information systems. Missouri Genetic Advisory Committee The Missouri Genetic Advisory Committee advises the Department on the provision of genetic services. To address specific issues, the Committee has four Standing Committees: Newborn Screening, Cystic Fibrosis, Hemophilia and Sickle Cell. The Genetic Advisory Committee and Standing Committees meet at least annually to monitor, review and analyze programmatic activities.

Healthy Families

Healthy Families | Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Skip to main content Healthy Families Topic Menu Adolescent & Teen Health Breastfeeding Genetic Disease & Early Childhood Handwashing Healthy Babies Healthy Children Infant Mortality Injury & Violence Prevention Maternal Child Health Minority Health Newborn Screening Oral Health Women's Health Good health begins at home. Giving your baby the best start in life, creating a safe home environment and helping your teenager deal with the pressures of adolescence are just of few of the health issues families face every day. When your family members stay healthy, they have more energy to work, learn and play. Staying healthy also reduces the chances of getting sick and makes it easier to enjoy time with family and friends. No matter your age, making healthy choices supports a stronger, more confident and more connected life. We know that each family in Missouri is different, and so are their needs. For some families, special healthcare services are necessary when unexpected situations come up, such as a child with a disability or an ongoing medical problem. Schools and community groups throughout Missouri help many families stay healthy by providing nutritious meals, health education and screening services. We work with many organizations across the state to offer information and assistance to improve the health and well-being of thousands of Missouri families every year. By building healthy habits early and keeping them through every stage of life, you can help your family stay independent, build resilience and enjoy the activities that matter most. Medical Home Community Health Workers Cord Blood Banking Food Programs Overdose Prevention and Response Health Professional Loan and Loan Repayment Programs School Health TEL-LINK Traumatic Brain Injury WIC (Women, Infants & Children) Missouri Maternal-Child Health Risk Level Dashboard

1 day ago

News Release: SEMA shares latest data in multi-year floodplain mapping project

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 26, 2025 SEMA shares latest data in multi-year floodplain mapping project Latest data shows minimal changes for most of the Lake of the Ozarks from current effective floodplain map; release of data marks beginning of review and comment period The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) today released the latest flood risk data collected as part of its multi-year floodplain mapping project for the Osage River Watershed in Missouri. The Lake of the Ozark counties of Benton, Camden, Miller and Morgan counties are included in the study area. SEMA said the new data set, which accounted for the lake’s depth, storage capacity and water flow dynamics, showed minimal changes for most of the lake compared to the currently adopted effective maps. “The bathymetry data, which provides a description of the underwater terrain and was the latest data added into our modeling, was the key part of the process that very significantly lowered flood elevation levels for the vast majority of areas around the lake that are occupied by residential, retail and commercial structures,” SEMA Director Jim Remillard said. The initial flood risk data did not fully account for the lake’s characteristics, causing elevations in some areas to be overestimated by several feet. Input from local officials and community members on this initial data set led to additional flood risk data collection and modeling. By incorporating the lake’s bathymetry, the latest results now show elevations dropping by several feet compared to the previously shared data. Some areas may be only slightly higher than the elevations on the currently effective maps (Camden, Miller and Morgan counties adopted their maps in 2018; Benton County adopted its map in 2009), while others may experience a more significant increase. Review this User Guide and look at updated flood risk data in ArcGIS. While the website allows users to make comments directly, those impacted by the updated flood risk data are encouraged to reach out to their local floodplain administrator to discuss concerns and explore their options. SEMA is in the process of taking into account existing Letters of Map Amendments (LOMA) related to the new dataset. Property owners with an existing LOMA do not need to apply for a new one if the lowest point of the lot or lowest adjacent grade documented in their LOMA remains above the proposed 1% annual chance water surface elevation in the updated flood risk data. Additionally, all existing Letters of Map Change (LOMC) will undergo a validation process known as the Summary of Map Actions (SOMA) to determine whether they will be upheld or superseded based on the proposed flood risk data. SEMA representatives began meeting with local floodplain managers and elected leaders in Benton, Morgan, Miller and Camden counties on March 25 to discuss the latest data and seek their input as part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) process. FEMA is providing a public comment period that is open through May 12. This step serves as a key opportunity for community officials, stakeholders and others to provide feedback and refine the updated flood risk data before the project advances to the next phase: floodplain mapping. Once the floodplain mapping phase is complete, the public will have an additional opportunity to provide further input during the 90-day Public Comment and Appeal period, where residents can review the preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and submit comments or appeals supported by technical data. Local input is essential in developing accurate and reliable flood risk data. SEMA appreciates the participation of those who have contributed to this process. This engagement helps ensure the accuracy of flood risk information, ultimately supporting better floodplain management and hazard mitigation planning. SEMA looks forward to continued collaboration as we move through each phase of the project. The graphic below shows the progression of the multi-year floodplain mapping project for Benton, Camden, Miller and Morgan counties. -END- For more information, call 573-751-6294 or e-mail [email protected]