DDPHE Blog: A Heavenly Home for Heavenly Published on November 17, 2025 November is Senior Pet Month, and there’s no better time to celebrate the love and loyalty of older animals, like Heavenly, a 15-year-old Chihuahua who recently found her forever home. Tagged as: , Animal Shelter, News, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Mental Health for the Holidays Published on November 30, 2023 There are so many great things about the holiday season: getting together with friends, the excitement around special occasions and more. But along with the good can come the bad: loneliness, grief, anxiety and frustration, which can make things far from merry and bright. Read more to learn about managing mental health during the holidays. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: One Health Connects People, Animals, and the Environment Published on November 03, 2025 At the Denver Department of Public Health & Environment (DDPHE), we know that the health of people, animals and the environment are deeply connected. Tagged as: , News, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Strategic Plan Launched Published on October 17, 2025 The Denver Department of Public Health & Environment (DDPHE) is proud to announce the launch of its new strategic plan, a roadmap that will guide the department’s work over the next several years to improve the health, safety and wellbeing of everyone in Denver. Tagged as: , Announcements, Environment, Public Health & Environment
Guest Commentary: Community Voice Central to Ending Overdose Crisis Published on August 31, 2025 Denver is facing the realities of an ongoing overdose crisis that continues to claim lives and strain families across the city. On its face, it is a public health emergency, but it’s also deeply personal. Every statistic, every siren, is a daughter or son, a parent, or a friend. Tagged as: , News, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Clarifying Recent Conversations About Tylenol and Autism Published on September 25, 2025 You may have seen recent headlines suggesting a link between Tylenol (acetaminophen) use in pregnancy and autism. We know these stories can be confusing and concerning, especially for parents, families, and those who are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. The experts at DDPHE are here to help provide clarity by grounding this conversation in science-based evidence. Tagged as: , Public Health & Environment
Bones Beneath the Surface: What to Do If You Find Bones in Denver Published on September 23, 2025 With Denver’s history, it’s not impossible you might stumble across bones while gardening, hiking, or even renovating your home. But don’t panic, Denver’s Office of the Medical Examiner explains what you should do if you come across something spooky in the soil. Tagged as: , Public Health & Environment
School Might Be Back, But West Nile Virus Season Isn’t Over Published on September 11, 2025 Mosquitoes don’t follow the school calendar. While students are back in class, West Nile virus season continues until the first frost—usually in October or November. Here’s what you need to know. Tagged as: , News, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: School Vaccines, What You You Need To Know Published on August 15, 2025 Every school year, it’s important we keep our schools and communities healthy and safe from vaccine-preventable diseases. The Denver Department of Public Health & Environment (DDPHE) urges all residents to check their vaccination records and ensure they are protected. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Tips to Reduce Your Environmental Footprint Published on April 25, 2023 The average American throws away 4.9 pounds of trash per day. Production, transportation, and handling of this waste is a significant driver of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. It is important to recognize that one person alone cannot combat the climate crisis, but collective action can be part of the larger solution. Tagged as: , Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Healthy Back to School Tips and Habits Published on July 21, 2025 As the back-to-school season begins, families across Denver are preparing for the return of early mornings, packed lunches, and full backpacks. Set kids up for success with a healthy start to the school year and routines at home that can help them thrive physically and emotionally. Tagged as: , Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: What You Need to Know About Blue-green Algae Published on May 01, 2024 Summer heat means algae blooms in our front range lakes. While DDPHE never recommends swimming, wading, or playing in Denver’s lakes and streams, here’s what residents should know as they enjoy their time in nature this season. Tagged as: , Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Avoiding Algae Blooms and Mosquito Bites this Summer Published on July 17, 2025 Summer in Denver means more time outside, enjoying Denver’s beautiful parks or — enjoying a warm evening in your backyard. However, warmer weather also presents some health risks that Denverites should be aware of: harmful algae blooms in ponds and lakes and mosquito-borne illnesses, such as West Nile virus. Tagged as: , News, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: What to Expect When Public Health Calls You Published on June 09, 2025 Ring, ring…it’s your local public health department! Getting a phone call from your local health department might feel unexpected—or even a little intimidating—especially when you’re not feeling well. But don’t worry, a call from the Denver Department of Public Health & Environment is an important part of protecting your health and the health of our Denver community. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: What to Do If You’ve Been Exposed to Measles Published on May 30, 2025 In recent weeks, there have been several measles exposures in the Denver metro area including airports, grocery stores, hospitals and more. The Denver Department of Public Health & Environment is here to provide guidance about what you should do if you or a family member has been exposed to measles. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: How to Protect Pets from Tick-Borne Diseases Published on May 29, 2025 With spring in full swing, more people are enjoying the outdoors, which also means an increased risk of exposure to ticks and tick-borne diseases. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Measles Safety Over the Summer Published on May 19, 2025 Summer is a season of adventure—family vacations, music festivals, international travel, and outdoor gatherings. But as travel increases, so does the risk of spreading and catching contagious diseases like measles. Here’s what you need to know about measles safety this summer, especially if you’re planning to travel. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Measles and Misinformation Published on February 27, 2025 You may have heard measles is spreading in some parts of the United States. While there is NOT a current outbreak of measles in Denver, there is a lot of misinformation swirling online around measles. Don’t make a “rash” decision regarding measles. Learn more about the virus and the vaccine from experts at the Denver Department of Public Health & Environment. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
On the Job: DAP Officers' Multiple Skills Protect Pets, Community Published on May 06, 2025 People used to call them “dog catchers.” But today’s animal control officers are like the Swiss Army knives of animal welfare. They enforce animal laws, act like social workers, educate the public on responsible pet ownership, and risk their lives as emergency responders, all while keeping animals and our community safe. Tagged as: , Animal Shelter, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: What to Know About Overdose Prevention Published on April 29, 2025 The Denver Department of Public Health & Environment (DDPHE) works to address substance use in our community by educating Denver residents about overdose prevention, treatment access, and harm reduction services. Tagged as: , News, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Avoid Wildlife Contact this Spring to Prevent Rabies Published on April 21, 2025 Spring has sprung, which means more Denverites are venturing outdoors and encountering wildlife. While these creatures may seem adorable, they can pose significant risks, including the transmission of diseases such as rabies. Denver Animal Protection encourages residents to resist the urge to interact with or touch wild animals and instead prioritize safety for both humans and animals. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: The Buzz on Denver’s Updated Noise Ordinance Published on March 11, 2025 In response to Denver's significant growth and evolving urban landscape, the city has made comprehensive revisions to the noise ordinance in Denver’s city code. Tagged as: , News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Protecting Kids Under 6 from Measles Published on April 16, 2025 Measles is very contagious. Nearly 1 out of every 3 children under the age of 5 who catches measles ends up in the hospital. Given the current measles outbreaks in neighboring states and cases popping up in Colorado, the risk of your child coming in contact with measles is higher than usual and your baby may be at increased risk for severe illness if they are exposed. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
Food Safety in Denver: What Consumers & Vendors Need to Know Published on April 04, 2025 Denver is home to a thriving food scene, with over 4,000 food businesses ranging from restaurants and bars to food trucks, bakeries, and grocery stores. Whether you're dining out, grabbing a bite at a food truck, or running a food business, food safety should always be a top priority. Tagged as: , Business Licensing, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Eco-Friendly Plant and Garden Tips for Earth Month Published on March 20, 2025 Spring is here, and as we celebrate Earth Month this April, it's the perfect time to get our plants, lawns and gardens ready for warmer weather while also protecting the environment. Tagged as: , News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: What it Takes to Raise Backyard Chickens in Denver Published on March 17, 2025 The price of eggs at the grocery store may have some of you coming out of your shells and asking about alternatives to the supermarket, like producing eggs in your own backyard. Here’s how to get started with your own backyard egg production:In the City and County of Denver, you’ll first need to purchase a food-producing animal permit for $25. Tagged as: , Animal Shelter, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Stay Safe When Things Heat Up This Spring Break Published on February 20, 2025 Spring break is right around the corner, and whether your plans include hitting the beach for some sun or zooming down mountains in hopes of a powder day, the Denver Department of Public Health & Environment wants to remind Denverites to keep health and safety at the top of your to-do list. Learn more about the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones this spring break with these tips! Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
On The Job: Disease and Outbreak Investigation in Denver Published on February 18, 2025 While the phrase “disease outbreak” may conjure images of chaos and flashbacks to the COVID-19 pandemic, there is no need to panic. While disease outbreaks can be big or small, the Denver Department of Public Health & Environment (DDPHE) Epidemiology and Disease Intervention team is here to protect our Denver community through it all. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Holiday Food Safety Tips Published on November 22, 2024 As the holidays quickly approach, the Denver Department of Public Health & Environment offers tips to help you taste the magic of the season and avoid foodborne illness this year. Tagged as: , Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Sexual Health is Public Health Published on January 22, 2025 Sexual health is an essential element of a fulfilling, empowered life, and is a key pillar of public health for the Denver community. The Denver Department of Public Health & Environment’s sexual health program Up Close supports informed sexual health information, prioritizing consent, and embracing a mindset that celebrates safe, consensual, and enjoyable experiences for all. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Tips to Gather Safely This Winter Published on January 27, 2025 Colder weather is here in Denver, and that means more time gathering with others indoors. Respiratory viruses tend to spread more this time of year, including those that cause flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19. When getting together, take simple steps to protect yourself, your loved ones, and our Denver community. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: H5N1 Bird Flu Precautions for Denverites Published on January 28, 2025 You may have heard a lot of chirping recently about avian flu. H5N1 bird flu is widespread in wild birds worldwide and is causing outbreaks in poultry and U.S. dairy cows. The current risk to the public is low. Learn more about H5N1 from the Denver Department of Public Health & Environment and Denver Animal Protection. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Elections + Mental Health + Public Health Published on November 04, 2024 With the 2024 election around the corner on Nov. 5, it’s only natural to wonder how the election affects mental health. During this time, it’s important to remember to take care of your mental health if you’re feeling stressed. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Safety First for Peace of Mind This Holiday Season Published on October 18, 2024 In the blink of an eye holiday season is already here! The Denver Department of Public Health & Environment (DDPHE) urges residents to prioritize their health and safety amidst an expected rise in respiratory illnesses such as flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19 as the holidays approach. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE On the Job: Our Public Health Nursing Team Published on July 25, 2024 “On the Job" is a new series on the Denver Department of Public Health & Environment’s (DDPHE) blog that highlights the work of different DDPHE divisions doing work in our community. The boots-on-the-ground work they do helps keep our Denver community safe and healthy. Tagged as: , Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Thanksgiving Safety Tips for Cats and Dogs Published on October 10, 2024 Our dogs and cats are part of the family, so during the holidays, you may be tempted to include them in the celebration and share with them a cornucopia of holiday foods. Denver Animal Protection offers the following tips to keep your pets healthy and happy this holiday season. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Mpox in Denver Published on August 28, 2024 Cases of mpox are continuing to circulate in Colorado, including Denver. The Denver Department of Public Health & Environment wants to remind Denver residents that testing, free vaccines, and treatment for mpox are available. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Virus or Seasonal Allergies Published on April 07, 2024 It can be difficult to know whether a cough, sore throat, or runny nose are caused by a virus or seasonal allergies. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Foods Your Pet Should Steer Clear Of! Published on March 25, 2024 While we may look at human food as a treat for our pet, it’s important to remember human foods can make your pet sick and even lead to death. Denver Animal Protection staff veterinarians say most people food will give your pet an upset stomach and even some foods labeled “good” can be dangerous. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Kudos to DDPHE Staff Supporting the Migrant Response Published on January 23, 2024 Since Denver’s migrant response began in late 2022, our city has supported more than 37,000 families, children and individuals arriving from the southern border, including the staff from Denver Department of Public Health & Environment. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Stay Covered Through Health First Colorado and CHP+ Published on February 12, 2024 The Denver Department of Public Health & Environment wants to help ensure Denver residents who are on Health First Colorado (Colorado’s Medicaid program) or Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) stay covered! Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Safe Medication Disposal in Denver Published on March 07, 2024 The abuse of prescription medicine is the fastest growing drug problem in the United States, particularly among teens. Nearly 224,000 Coloradans misuse prescription drugs each year. Take Meds Back helps Denver residents safely dispose of unused and expired prescription and over-the-counter medications. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week Published on March 18, 2024 Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week is April 14-20. It’s a week when communities learn about the work of animal protection officers. One routine part of the job for Denver Animal Protection (DAP) officers can occur after the death of a resident. Learn more about the process from DAP Sgt. Noah Imai. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: How to Properly Dispose of Household Hazardous Waste Published on March 29, 2024 The Denver Department of Public Health & Environment reminds residents that household hazardous waste must be disposed of properly to protect the environment and the health of our residents. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Celebrate Earth Month with Denver’s Environmental Leaders Published on March 18, 2024 Celebrate Earth Month with DDPHE by focusing on three areas where Denver residents can contribute to a greener, more sustainable future. This Earth Month, incorporate the following tips from the city’s environmental leaders: Tagged as: , Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: What You Need to Know About Syphilis Published on February 05, 2025 Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that doesn’t always show signs or symptoms. Those who are pregnant can pass the infection to their baby without knowing it. Learn more about syphilis in Denver on the DDPHE Healthy Insights blig. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Animal Protection Teams Up With Community to Save Dog Published on December 06, 2024 He’d been on the run in Denver for months when someone shot him in the face. Volunteers in the community set a trap to finally capture the 3-year-old Aussie shepherd. In turn, he captured the hearts of many. Tagged as: , Animal Shelter, News, Public Health & Environment, Safety
DDPHE Blog: Tips to Avoid Norovirus Published on December 23, 2024 Think you have the “stomach flu” or a “stomach bug?” Think again, because you might have norovirus, a common virus, which spreads very easily and quickly, but is not related to the flu. Colorado is currently experiencing a higher-than-usual number of norovirus outbreaks. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Respecting Faith and Science During Autopsies Published on November 15, 2024 The doctors at OME strongly consider religious objections to autopsy, including adjusting procedures to be as minimally invasive as possible, such as dissecting only relevant body parts and returning as much of the body as possible. Tagged as: , Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: How to Prevent Food Waste This Holiday Season Published on November 22, 2024 The holidays are a time for gathering with loved ones, enjoying delicious food, and reflecting on what we're grateful for. However, it's also one of the biggest culprits of food waste in the United States, with millions of pounds of leftovers going to waste each year. From cooking too much to improper storage, there are several ways food can end up in the trash during the holiday season. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Be on the Good List with Timely Vaccines by the Holidays Published on November 18, 2024 As we sled into the holiday season, it’s important to make sure the safety of yourself and your loved ones is at the top of the “to-do” list. To keep the holidays merry and bright, ensure your family is up to date on recommended vaccines, like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), COVID-19 and the flu, and follow these holiday-themed tips for a safe and healthy holiday season. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Stay Healthy and Spook-tacularly Safe This Fall Published on September 23, 2024 As the witching hour approaches and the streets fill with little monsters and mummies, the Denver Department of Public Health & Environment reminds our Denver community to take the following steps to safely enjoy all types of fun this fall. Tagged as: , Announcements, News, Press release, Public Health & Environment
DDPHE Blog: Global Peer Support Day Published on September 19, 2024 October 17, 2024, will mark the 10th Annual Global Peer Support Celebration Day (GPSCD). This milestone offers a moment to honor the dedication, resilience, and transformative work of Peer Supporters around the world. A Peer Support Specialist is someone who has personally navigated significant life disruptions due to substance misuse or mental health challenges. Tagged as: , Public Health & Environment