Helena is one of the first communities in Montana to offer an electronic benefit system for participants in its WIC supplemental nutrition program. The new system, called eWIC, replaces paper benefits with a charge card similar to a credit or debit card. Helena and four other communities began testing the program in June. It’s expected to go statewide later this month. Learn more about eWIC and how you can apply.

It’s time to roll up your sleeve! Flu shots are now available at Lewis and Clark Public Health. Health experts recommend a yearly flu shot for everyone age 6 months or older. It’s the best protection against influenza, a highly contagious virus that can cause mild to severe illness. Flu shots are available at our regular walk-in immunization clinics Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., 1930 Ninth Avenue. No appointment is needed. Learn more about flu shots.

A person recreating at Canyon Ferry Lake was bitten in August by a bat that tested positive for rabies. The health department wants to remind everyone of the seriousness of possible rabies exposure from bats. Anyone who had direct contact with a bat needs to be evaluated. Direct contact includes being bitten or scratched by a bat or getting bat saliva in the eyes, nose, mouth, or an open break in the skin. Learn more about bats and rabies.

Lewis and Clark Public Health was awarded accreditation in June by the national, nonprofit Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB). Only about 5 percent of local health departments in the country have achieved this recognition since PHAB launched its program in 2011. LCPH becomes only the 5th local health department in Montana to become accredited. Find out what this means for the department and for the community we serve.