WCHD News Releases

The Winnebago County Health Department (WCHD) encourages residents to take steps to prevent tick bites and watch for symptoms of illness after being outside in the yard or walking in wooded or grassy areas. For the first time, ticks from Winnebago County have tested positive for Powassan virus.There is no vaccine for Powassan virus which […]

On Tuesday, March 10, 2026 the Rockford Public Library in partnership with the Winnebago County Health Department’s Trauma Informed Community Workgroup will be offering a free film viewing of “Paper Tigers.” A discussion on the impact of trauma and how to build resiliency in our community will follow. Panelist include representatives from the Rockford Public

On Tuesday, February 10, 2026 the Rockford Public Library in partnership with the Winnebago County Health Department’s Trauma Informed Community Workgroup will be offering a free film viewing of “Broken Places.” A discussion on the impact of trauma and how to build resiliency in our community will follow.This viewing is part of the 2026 Trauma

In Winnebago County, heart disease followed by cancer are the two leading causes of death. The Winnebago County Health Department (WCHD) encourages residents to Eat S.M.A.R.T. to protect heart health and prevent cancer: • Smaller portions• More fruits and vegetables• Add whole grains and beans• Reduce sugar and salt• Try to limit meat and processed

The Rockford Public Library in partnership with the Winnebago County Health Department’s Trauma Informed Community Workgroup will be offering free film viewings and follow-up discussion on the impact of trauma and how to build resiliency. The film viewings and discussion will be held at 6pm at the JR Sullivan Theater at RPL’s Nordlof Center at

  WINNEBAGO COUNTY – On Wednesday, September 17, the Winnebago County Health Department (WCHD) recognized local community members who volunteered their time over the past year with the Winnebago County Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) to help build a healthier, safer, and stronger community. Full News Release (PDF)

Starting in July, welcoming all newborns and connecting families with personalized community resources WINNEBAGO COUNTY – On May 12, 2025, the Winnebago County Health Department (WCHD) joined with Alignment Rockford and community partners to launch Winning Start Winnebago, a new community-wide initiative that provides free home visiting services and resources to support healthy pregnancies, child

As mental health continues to be a top health concern in Winnebago County, the Winnebago County Health Department (WCHD) is encouraging all residents to Take Ten (10) minutes a day for their mental wellbeing. To support residents’ efforts, WCHD has partnered with CredibleMind to launch the Take Ten 815 website: taketen815.crediblemind.com. This website gives residents

WINNEBAGO COUNTY – The Winnebago County Health Department (WCHD) is encouraging women to take charge of their health this May. Women are not immune to heart disease, lung disease, and cancer. Women experience unique healthcare needs and challenges accessing the healthcare system. View Full Release (PDF)

The Winnebago County Health Department (WCHD) will be taking part in National Public Health Week Each year the first week of April is designated as National Public Health Week (NPHW), a time to recognize the contributions of public health and bring awareness to the issues that impact health in our communities. The theme for National