Last week I attended a meeting where I was invited to share a public health perspective with a group of professionals that typically have very little interaction with public health. I was happy to be a part of the conversation and provide input during the discussion. I learned quite a bit during my time with these folks and I found it to be a very productive meeting.

I spent about 90 minutes with the group as we worked our way through the topic at hand. Although we covered a variety of subjects, at no time during the meeting was COVID-19 mentioned or discussed. There was no placeholder for COVID on the agenda and the conversation had nothing to do with COVID. I was not asked for my opinion on the matter, nor did I share it, at any time during the presentation. From my perspective, there was no place or relevance for COVID in the conversation. However, my perspective did not align with the perspective of some in attendance.

As the meeting concluded, one individual walked up to me and asked, “why are you still talking about COVID?” The tone of the question was not of a teasing or playful nature, but it was not threatening or aggressive either. The inquiry had a tone of concern, frustration and a real desire to know why COVID is still a thing. With the continued ebb and flow provided by COVID data and some attention-grabbing headlines, much like this one, I anticipate there are some in our community who are asking this very question, “why are we still talking about COVID?”

In public health, we have a bad habit of discussing topics like substance abuse prevention, communicable diseases, and radon maps around the water cooler. It isn’t uncommon to hear conversations about flu, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), septic systems, or diabetes, at the lunch table. For public health professionals, these topics are not scary or embarrassing, they are part of everyday life and conversation. Much like a quick conversation between two auto mechanics can help diagnose engine troubles, or a good tax professional can cite tax code verbatim, having conversations about touchy subjects is what we do. Honestly, given the nature of some content, we aren’t always the best people to have lunch with and tend to sit amongst ourselves at the lunch table.

Given what we know, as public health professionals, we have accepted that COVID is now a part of everyday life and will be for the foreseeable future.

Much like most seasonal illnesses, we have a general understanding of how COVID is transmitted, the seasonality, and the symptoms. We also know how to protect ourselves, limit our risk, and manage a COVID infection. There are seasonal vaccines available that are specific to COVID variants of interest, a practice that is also applied to the flu each year. Given everything we know to date, we can apply lessons learned to help educate, vaccinate, and protect the community to help reduce COVID infections.

With this information, COVID is no longer associated with an emergency response and does not wear the title of a pandemic. Now, more than three years after the first case in Summit County, discussions about COVID carry a similar tone to other common and reportable diseases. COVID rates are included on the Summit County Health Department Respiratory Disease Dashboard alongside influenza and RSV with no special distinction beyond the other disease data. Additionally, COVID has been added to a long list of reportable diseases in Utah like influenza and tuberculosis that are constantly under surveillance at the state and local level. And, when I see COVID nestled among other diseases on the list like chickenpox or pertussis, it provides some perspective as to how far we have come with this disease. We talk about COVID as if it were any other disease on the list.

Let me say, I recognize the strong emotions connected to COVID. It was a difficult time for all of us. I also recognize that COVID is real and present in the community still to this day. That is why we continue to talk about it. However, the way we talk about it now is much different than it was just a year ago, and very different than how we talked about it two years ago. Now, the tone is different. It has to be. We share what we know (data), when we know (relevance), and what to know (how to protect yourself) so folks are informed and can make decisions based on their individual situation. The context of this conversation is the same as it might be with tickborne diseases, norovirus, and flu.  

So, the next time you hear a COVID and flu report from the Summit County Health Department, please know that it is not an attempt to beat a dead horse, remain relevant, or sound the alarm. Instead, it is us cordially inviting you to join us at the lunch table or around the water cooler while we discuss all things disease-related in Summit County.  

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During my graduate studies, I had the wonderful opportunity to attend class with two women from Africa. These remarkable ladies were both Doctors of Medicine (M.D), the daughters of the village chief, and were of royal lineage in their tribe. After completing medical school, the sisters came to the United States in pursuit of a master’s degree in public health. As they explained to me, the plan was to continue their learning and gain a better understanding of public health practice so they could return to their country and provide comprehensive care to their villages. Their story, their journey, and their commitment to their father, and village, were powerful and awe-inspiring.

Throughout the semester both women would share nuggets of information backed by real-world experience. Some stories included first-hand accounts of exotic and rare diseases that I had only read about in books. Other stories shared how the harmful effects of malaria, rabies, tuberculosis and tetanus, diseases that are much less common in the U.S., influenced their formative years and left a lasting impression even as adults. This is why they were doing what they were doing. They wanted to make a difference for their people.

I can say with full confidence that these two strong, confident and focused women left a lasting impression on me. When I think back on my experience and the wisdom they shared, I always remember the value they placed on vaccines. Gracefully, and on multiple occasions, they would share how fortunate Americans are to have access to vaccines starting at birth and that they hoped for a day when people around the world would have the same opportunity. As a public health professional and a human being, I too hope this is accomplished in my lifetime. Although I have lost connection with them, I hope they have found success in their efforts to make vaccines readily available for their people.

With the arrival of August, we know kids are dreading what is to come. Yes, August marks the end of summer vacation and the start of school. And while I feel for them and the pure dread they feel, it is important to note that August is also National Immunization Awareness Month. I don’t think it is a coincidence that the timing of this event aligns with back-to-school preparations.

In Utah, there are immunization requirements for children to attend public school. Starting in kindergarten, children must have written proof of receiving six vaccines intended to protect against 10 common diseases. As they get older, the children are required to receive another series of vaccinations prior to the start of seventh grade. Some of the vaccines given at this time are intended to boost existing protections while others are first-time vaccines. Additionally, there are three optional and separate vaccines available to children, one for preventing infection against Human papillomavirus (HPV), one for Influenza, and one for COVID-19. These three vaccines are not required to attend school in Utah but should be considered by families for the protections they offer. In all cases, I encourage you to speak with your pediatrician, primary care physician, or our clinical staff at the health department about what is right for your family and situation.

More information on the school-aged vaccine and immunization requirements in Utah can be found at https://immunize.utah.gov or by calling the Summit County Health Department at (435) 333-1500.

I recognize that given my position, my academic background, and my experiences, I am biased towards the importance of vaccines for all ages. However, I know that in some circumstances, such as an existing health condition or religious beliefs, an exemption from this practice may be considered. Speaking in general terms, vaccines are suitable and safe for the majority of the population, including children.

The good that comes from vaccines is well-studied. The large body of evidence suggests there are significant health, economic and social benefits associated with this proven practice. Each year, the protections offered by vaccines save tens of thousands of lives and suppress deadly diseases, making them a thing of the past. Diseases like polio, smallpox, and tetanus, which once presented a significant risk to American children, are now considered eradicated, or reduced to the point where an infection in vaccinated individuals is unlikely. In most cases, if you are exposed to a disease you are vaccinated against, you are more likely to win the lottery or be struck by lightning than you are to contract the disease. While I wish my chances of winning the Wyoming lottery were better, I will take the odds offered by vaccines any day of the week.

Although some of the above comments are made tongue-in-cheek, I do share my opinion with careful consideration of the science, data, and history of the topic. Vaccines offer significant protection to the individual and the community and keep all of us healthy and safe while reducing, if not eliminating, the presence of certain diseases in the population. That sounds like a pretty good outcome, and if you ask me, I think they are worth a shot. Pun intended.

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Recently, my son asked me if I could name the deadliest animal on the planet. His question caught me by surprise as I lay half-awake on our couch, taking advantage of a lazy Sunday afternoon. After taking a second to process the timing of his inquiry, I realized he knew the answer and wanted to test my knowledge on the subject.

Having spent the first 10 years of my public health career working in vector-borne and zoonotic disease surveillance, I knew the answer to his question. However, not wanting to take the wind from his sails, I let the conversation play out. I provided the standard answers of lions, bears, elephants, sharks, etc. With each answer, he was quick to let me know that I was wrong. I could see his excitement grow as he realized I didn’t know the answer, but he did. Finally, after exhausting my list of big, fierce, and scary animals, I admitted defeat and asked him for a hint. He was kind enough to share with me that the most dangerous animal in the world is small, annoying and bites. With this hint, I was able to determine that he was talking about mosquitoes.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization estimate that across the globe, mosquitoes kill more than 750,000 people a year. With humans removed from the conversation, snakes, the second deadliest animal in the world, kill an estimated 138,000 people per year, five-and-a-half times less than the number of lives taken by mosquitoes.

While this gap is significant, there are some variables that influence these statistics. Mosquitoes are considerably more abundant and are less influenced by social behaviors, resulting in increased opportunities for exposure. Given mosquitoes are found in all parts of the world, humans encounter mosquitoes more regularly than we would a tiger, lion, or bear. Although, based on recent reports from mountain bikers and hikers, there is an increased chance of running into the latter while enjoying the trails around Park City this year. But, for the sake of conversation, the odds of encountering a mosquito throughout the day are considerably higher than running into an alligator.

The point to be made is that we run from, avoid, and respect the potential dangers associated with the other animals on the list. Mosquitoes, despite the harm they cause, are viewed and treated differently. Despite what I know and my experience with mosquitoes, I am guilty of ignoring mosquitoes and the potential harm they cause as evidenced by the itchy welts on my ankles and arms that are screaming for attention as I write this.  

Despite the annoyance, our mosquito situation from a disease transmission perspective is pretty good. The habitat created by the climate and temperatures on the Wasatch Back limits the types of mosquitoes in the area. Of those present, only a few species of mosquitoes are known disease vectors, but they aren’t primary vectors for diseases like malaria, zika, and chikungunya. Lucky for us, this landscape does not support the species of mosquito that carry these difficult tropical diseases.

Another reason for our good fortune is the Summit County mosquito abatement district. These professionals work hard throughout the mosquito season to limit the mosquito population by identifying and monitoring mosquito habitats, then actively and strategically treating areas of standing water with environmentally safe mosquito control products. Although the mosquito population will vary from year to year, the efforts of these folks make it bearable and keep us safe by reducing the mosquito population and our potential exposure.

Despite all the good work in our area, it is worth mentioning that our mosquito population does present some risk for arboviral diseases like West Nile virus, Western equine encephalitis, and Saint Louis encephalitis. Mosquitoes like Culex tarsalis can carry and transmit diseases to humans, horses, and certain birds. In the late summer months, when the warmer temperatures carry into the night and the mosquito population is strong, is when the risk is the greatest. Thanks to the surveillance efforts of our abatement district, we tend to know when these diseases pop up in our area and can appropriately inform the community.

Although mosquitoes do their best to put a damper on our summer activities, it should not stop us from enjoying this time of year. Like diseases caused by tick bites, mosquito-borne diseases are 100% avoidable and preventable. Long sleeves, pants, light-colored clothing, and repellants are great ways to limit mosquito bites. Removing standing water from buckets, tires, or other items capable of holding rainwater around your home will reduce breeding habitat and minimize the number of mosquitoes in your area. Having screens on your windows and doors will also keep the bugs at bay while you enjoy the cool evening breeze and your favorite summer beverage or sleep with your windows open. Although these suggestions seem simple, they are proven and effective.

I imagine this is not new information for most. You may even have a bite or two from a mosquito as you read this. However, I hope that a friendly reminder will help us enjoy the remainder of our quickly fleeing summer disease- and itch-free.

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A few weeks ago, I attended a training on health equity. Although this course was geared specifically toward public health leaders and professionals, I left the event a bit perplexed. Like many other courses I have attended on this subject, the presentations waffled back and forth between equity and health equity, using the terms synonymously, and never creating a tangible separation between the two. During the discussions, the presenters effectively blurred the lines of distinction to the point where I was left wondering if the two can even be separated from one another, or even more, if it is wise to speak of them as individual disciplines given the symbiotic relationship that exists. For the sake of health equity, this continued ambiguity is frustrating.

The reason I attend these trainings is because I am not formally trained in health equity, I am not an expert on the subject, and I believe it is important now and for the future. Additionally, given the term has become politically charged in some areas of the state, I want to have enough of an understanding that I can succinctly and effectively share my own views on what health equity is and isn’t. I also want Health Department staff to be viewed as a resource for elected officials, community leaders, and stakeholders when these conversations are happening. Stated plainly, I want to be a good representative for Summit County. Therefore, I approach this subject with caution, respect, and a sincere desire to learn as I form my own definition and opinions on the matter.

While I understand the connection between the two terms, I also know there are important differences that should be highlighted and celebrated. The ability to discern between the two related, but different topics, is important as discussions about the future of Summit County unfold among leadership from the county and cities. Having this discernment helps identify where health equity may or may not influence some of the bigger issues we are facing in Summit County. As we have discussions about creatively solving difficult issues with equitable solutions, health equity is waiting in the wings with its hand raised waiting to be acknowledged. Health equity is, and always will be, part of the solution.

Over the last 18 months of learning, I have identified three common tenets of health equity that apply to all communities regardless of size, location or demographics; 1) addressing the social determinants of health will improve health equity, 2) access to and awareness of services is essential, and 3) resource allocation should align with efforts that leverage proven public health practice. By stepping back to assess health equity from 30,000 feet, we begin to see the definition of health equity. When we look at ground-level challenges from this elevation, it becomes increasingly clear that health equity is a part of everything we do.

Although it appears as though I may be oversimplifying a complex topic, I assure you I am not. This approach allows me to view the concept on a larger scale and makes the issue understandable and digestible. It creates a discernable line that defines the role of health equity in any discussion. And, it defines a role for the Health Department while guiding the allocation of resources for specific programming. If the answer is yes to any of the three questions above, considerations for health equity are at play.

By understanding just how big the sphere of influence is, we stand to gain when we apply a health equity filter in all we do. That is something to get excited about. Now we are talking about positive and lasting social change.

Given the discussions that are occurring throughout the county regarding affordable housing, transportation, growth, sustainability and child care, the importance of understanding the difference between health equity and equity cannot be stressed enough. It is an important thread in the fabric of Summit County.

As I become more familiar with this topic and understand the extent of the health equity ripple effect, the counsel offered by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. that “people with good intentions, but limited understanding, are more dangerous than people with total ill will” continues to ring loudly in my ears. When Dr. King’s prophetic warning is viewed through a health equity lens, one can see why the view from 30,000 feet deserves intentional consideration. Failing to include equity and health equity as separate ideals in the decision-making process could have unintended consequences that impact the future of Summit County. Including both subjects in the conversation as separate considerations limits these negative outcomes.

Although I believe folks are coming around to this idea, there is still work to be done. Given what I know about the investment from this community, there is no better place than Summit County to make it happen.

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I consider myself very fortunate to work in the field of public health. I recognize this work isn’t for everyone and some are scratching their heads as to why someone might enjoy working in the public sector, especially public health given what has taken place over the last few years. Lucky for me, I can say with full confidence that I love my job, the people I work with and the outcomes that result from our work. I am fortunate to be one of those people who wakes up every day and enjoys going to work.

If I could pinpoint one reason why I feel this way about my chosen profession, it would be the variety that is offered each day. And while I celebrate this diversity, both in the work and in the people we serve, there are some consistencies I have come to expect in this line of work. For better or worse, one thing you can always count on as a Health Department employee is being asked, “is [insert restaurant name] safe to eat at?”

In my time at the Health Department, I have been asked this question many times, in different ways, by a variety of people, and for many different reasons. However, regardless of who asks this question, the reason they asked it, or the status of our relationship, I always provide some version of the same answer, “There isn’t a restaurant in Summit County I would not eat at.” This sentiment was true in my time as the environmental health director for Summit County, and still holds true today.

Now, you are probably thinking that I am just being politically correct with this answer, and it would be unfair to share sensitive information that could hurt a business. However, given what I know about the regulatory and industry professionals who understand the regulations, are focused on compliance, and are working to build partnerships rooted in food safety in Summit County, my answer is honest and truthful.

The Summit County Health Department inspects over 450 food-related businesses throughout the year for compliance with the 768-page U.S. Food and Drug Administration Food Code. During these unannounced and randomized inspections, inspectors and restaurateurs walk through the establishment together, evaluating areas of critical concern related to the safe storage, prep, and service of food at your favorite spot to eat. Every restaurant in Summit County is subject to the regulatory process of permitting and inspecting. We work with all restaurants to achieve compliance with the food code and ensure a clean and safe food environment that reduces the risk of cross-contamination and foodborne illness. Each facility is held to the same standard, expectations, and regulations. Fairness and consistency in inspections are key to success for the restaurant owner and staff.

Although Hollywood generally represents the relationship between food inspectors and restaurant owners as strained and contentious, in my experience I have found these partnerships to be amicable and supportive given we are both focused on the same end goal, albeit for different reasons. As the Health Department, we want restaurants to thrive and do well because they are clean, safe and compliant. Restaurants want to do well and thrive because that is how their business works. Continued non-compliance is not good for the health department or the business. A compliant food environment ensures both organizations achieve the desired results. Therefore, we are focused on helping restaurants achieve their maximum potential through voluntary compliance that is based on education, training, and understanding, not authority and heavy-handed regulation. Although I am speaking in generalities, I believe our approach is working quite well.

As is the case with all public health programs, our success is only as good as the partnerships we have with our stakeholders. In the case of restaurant owners and staff, this is exceptionally true. Although I have a significant interest in successful compliance among our food service community, it could be argued that my interest pales in comparison to that of the restaurant owners. I recognize this is their livelihood and, in most cases, their passion. In an age where social media rules supreme when it comes to sharing information, opinions and perspectives across the globe in seconds, successful restaurant owners feel the constant pressure to perform at the highest standard in order to avoid negative publicity. One negative review on any popular media platform can be more devastating to a business than a demerit on an inspection report.

Regardless of the reason for ensuring compliance with the FDA Food Code, both the health department and our food service community are committed to ensuring a safe dining experience anywhere in Summit County.  Although from a regulatory perspective, I see, and expect, a high rate of compliance with food safety practices, I am the first to admit this success is not solely based on the efforts of Health Department staff. While I applaud the efforts of staff for grinding out inspections day after day, year after year, I also celebrate the work and dedication of our partners in the food industry to do what is right when it comes to serving food in a safe manner.

I think we can all agree, safe, clean and compliant restaurants are the result of effective partnerships, not the regulations that govern them. It truly is a mutual partnership that benefits everyone.

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I spend a lot of time outdoors. This is especially true in the spring when the mornings are crisp, the daytime temps are perfect, and everything is turning green. Whether it is hiking mile after mile looking for shed antlers from deer and elk, hunting wild turkeys in the early spring on public land, or riding my mountain bike once the trails are ready, I take advantage of every opportunity I am given to be outside.

While being active in the great outdoors is good for our mental and physical health, it does present some minor risks. Having lived in the intermountain west all my life, I have come to terms with the fact that ticks and humans coexist in the same environment. As a result, given the potential for these blood-sucking ectoparasites to cause disease and illness, it is important that we take precautions to protect ourselves, our families, and our pets. Yes, tick-borne diseases, like mosquito-borne diseases, are 100% preventable.

Given the time I spend in areas where ticks are present, I have learned to live with ticks. I will admit that ticks bother me and they are never a welcome sight, but life goes on. For me, the slight risk of a tick-borne illness, which is preventable and avoidable, will never outweigh the benefits of being active and taking advantage of everything good that comes from being outdoors. I am sure there are quite a few who share this sentiment.

In my experience, ticks are more present during the spring season compared to other times of the year. Generally, by early summer, it has warmed up and the soil and vegetation have started to dry out. As a result of this change, the tick population seems to thin out due to starvation, predation, or desiccation. Those that survive the seasonal transition appear to hide and recede into the darkness of the underworld only to return and cause problems when the conditions are right in the fall.

However, this year is different. With the cooler temperatures and daily rains, the mountain landscape still looks like it does in mid-spring, boasting a beautiful carpet of wildflowers, green grasses, and wonderful smelling sage-flats. While this welcome change is much deserved after this past winter, it has allowed the tick population to hang on longer than in years past. I have been surprised by the number of calls we have received about ticks this year. Not only is the population postponing its retreat, but based on what I am hearing and what has been shared with me, it seems to be staging a comeback tour that could last well into late summer.

Although anecdotal evidence may support the idea that tick numbers are higher this year than in years past, this should not be interpreted to mean that disease-carrying ticks are on the rise. A recent study by Utah State University (USU) noted that the Rocky Mountain Wood Tick is the most common tick in Utah. This species is not a vector of Lyme Disease, but can carry Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and tick paralysis. The Western Blacklegged Tick is present in Utah and can carry the bacteria responsible for Lyme Disease. However, based on the results of the study, the geographic range of the Western Blacklegged Tick is isolated to the Sheeprock Mountains in Tooele County. Additionally, of the ticks collected and evaluated for disease in the Utah study, none were found to be carrying the Borrelia bacterium responsible for Lyme Disease. USU also noted that in other areas of the intermountain west, less than 15% of the ticks tested for various diseases were positive for bacteria capable of causing tick-borne illness.

While these numbers provide some security that the chances of becoming sick from a tick bite are low in Utah, we still need to be vigilant. Thorough tick checks after being outside in sagebrush or tall grasses can help with the timely and thorough removal of the tick. The general rule of thumb is that if a tick is removed within 24 hours of latching on, the risk of infection is reduced by almost 100%. If you or a loved one are not comfortable removing a tick, you can seek a medical professional to assist with this procedure. However, you should feel confident that with some online guidance from the Summit County Health Department, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Institute of Health, you can successfully and effectively perform a tick removal at home.

Regardless of the reason you are outdoors, be it ranching, farming, hiking, hunting, or any other outdoor activity, including gardening and yardwork, it is possible that you might come into contact with a tick or two. And, much like the inevitable raspberry from the first mountain bike crash of the year, we should not let this anticipated encounter deter us from enjoying the benefits of being outside. With a little extra attention to detail and increased awareness, we can coexist with these nasty creatures and avoid becoming ill should they find it appropriate to help themselves to a blood meal at our expense.

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A couple weeks ago, Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte signed a bill that bans the use of TikTok in the state, citing concerns over access to personal data and ongoing surveillance efforts. Personally, I don’t use this app and know very little about its operation. The extent of my TikTok knowledge is based on what I have learned through the various news outlets regarding allegations of spying, personal data breaches, and ongoing surveillance from foreign governments. I cannot speak to the validity of such claims, nor have I researched them with the intent to educate myself. Given that I don’t use it or have a need for it, I have never been too concerned about how I might be at personal risk.

After reading this news, I started thinking about the various methods of surveillance and how I am impacted. Although I do my best to limit access to my data and analytics from nefarious characters, and I always select the “ask app not to track user data” option when installing a new app on my phone, I know the mobile tracking device I carry with me everywhere is still sharing my information. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that the term surveillance, when used in a general context, creates concern when there is no further explanation or clarification given.

Only time will tell if the actions taken in Montana will achieve the intended outcomes, or if the current undertaking by our state Legislature limiting access to the darker realms of the internet is successful. I believe both efforts to safeguard individuals mean well, but it is a big lift.

However, not all surveillance is bad. In some cases, like that of public health, the constant and consistent evaluation of drinking water provides significant individual and social benefits. I recognize that I may be comparing apples to oranges when it comes to individual surveillance versus public health surveillance, but the point to be made is that in certain cases, ongoing oversight is not only good practice, but it is necessary.

Public health surveillance efforts have a proven track record of minimizing or stopping situations that could negatively impact health. The most recent example is a boil order that was issued to a water system in Summit County when the monthly water quality sample did not meet drinking water standards. Although this particular water system has submitted thousands of good water samples throughout the years and has a solid track record of compliance, this particular sample was different. And, while the experience of a boil order is inconvenient and frustrating for all involved, the practice of repetitive monthly sampling paid off. Early detection led to quick action by the water company and in the end, eliminated the public health threat and associated waterborne illness.

Having been through a boil order or two in my career, I can attest that the process is not enjoyable. I commend the water purveyor for its honest approach to ensuring the safety of its customers through a commitment to compliance. I also appreciate the quick and strategic response. Monthly water sampling is repetitive, unexciting, and comes with a financial commitment. However, it is essential to the surveillance arm of public health and important to protect individual health. I recognize that, and so do the numerous private and public water companies throughout Summit County. If I had to use one word, or maybe two, to sum up this situation and the role surveillance played, I would say successful and essential.

This recent example celebrates the value of surveillance when used for the right reasons. It also provides validation that the current practices can identify small changes in a very large system across a variety of potential public health threats. It is remarkable when you think about being able to pinpoint a single occurrence among thousands of samples, data points, or indicators, and then quickly respond to the situation as necessary to protect public health. Using data gathered through surveillance efforts to drive our actions, and the actions of our partners in the community, is pretty cool. 

Although I have used a recent water sampling example to illustrate the effectiveness of the public health surveillance system, the overall effort is much bigger than described here. There is a team of public health professionals on the Wasatch Back, including our friends at the Wasatch County Health Department, who are engaged 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, in the ongoing surveillance of matters pertaining to public health with the sole purpose of keeping molehills small and avoiding mountains when possible.

Just know that we are always watching, we are ever-present, and your wellbeing is under constant surveillance, analysis and review. There is no escaping our reach. But, not in a weird or obtrusive way; in a good way that allows you to know with full confidence that your kids can safely drink from the tap this summer while doing what kids do best — being kids.

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A few weeks back, I noticed a slow, small drip in the laundry room at my house. Upon further investigation, I noticed the sporadic droplets were falling from the cold-water valve, into the plastic washing machine outlet box, creating a trickle of water that headed to the opening of the drain line for the washing machine. After identifying the source of the nuisance water and a temporary solution, I was confident the repair could wait. I felt perfectly fine with my decision and committed to making the repair when I had time. 

Fast forward to this week. The laundry room is a mess. I have removed a large amount of drywall that will need to be replaced, painted and primed, the studs in the wall will need to be dried and sealed to prevent future mold and I still need to fix the leaky valve. What originally started as a $20 repair and an hour of my time is now considerably more expensive and will consume the better part of my weekend. Despite being frustrated by my lack of action when the problem was much more manageable, and doing my best to find a scapegoat, I only have myself to blame in this situation.

As I have thought about the events of the last few weeks, I realized that I had a fair warning that the valve was bad. I know better than to ignore leaking water inside my home. Yet, I chose to disregard the early notification. Had I taken immediate action, I could have avoided the current situation in my laundry room.

On Tuesday, May 9, the day my wife discovered our leaky valve had grown into a much bigger problem, the Health Department held the first event in the three-part speaker series focused on climate change and public health. This event, which was well attended and, for all intents and purposes, accomplished what we had hoped, was founded on the concerns identified in the Summit County Climate Risk Assessment. Using advanced modeling and analytical techniques, the Woodwell Climate Research Center evaluated potential scenarios for drought, water scarcity, and wildfire through 2090. It is a remarkable report. I find the methodologies used and the anticipated outcomes to be fascinating. Oddly enough, the report validated comments that have been shared with me over the years by folks who do and don’t believe in climate change science. In this case, the anecdotal information aligns perfectly with science, creating a curiously synergistic partnership between supporters and non-supporters.

As you might have guessed, the report states the current trajectory in Summit County, and really the Intermountain West, is not positive. Under the model used by Woodwell, the current drought conditions are expected to increase in severity, leading to water scarcity and elevated levels of water stress in Summit County. The lack of water will contribute to increased wildfires that pose a significant risk to human health while threatening the loss of life and property, stressing ecosystems and impacting our local economy. Not good. The lack of water also presents concerns for ranching, farming and agriculture practices that could strain or interrupt the supply chain for the food we eat due to drier soils and less available water. Again, not good. When I think about how far-reaching the ripple effect could be, I cannot think of anyone or anything that is immune to the situation described in the report.   

So why bring up such a highly political topic and stir the proverbial hornet’s nest? Well, I want to let readers know that thanks to science and technology, we have been warned, notified, and made aware of the situation. Much like my leaky valve, it should come as no surprise that if we fail to act, we can expect bigger, more expensive, and more time-consuming problems to negatively influence how our children, and our children’s children, experience the Wasatch Back. Whether your desire is to ensure the next generation has the opportunity to continue the farming and ranching legacy in our rural areas, or you hope your grandkids get to experience the greatest snow on earth, if even a portion of this forecast is realized, future generations may not be afforded the opportunity to love and cherish the area as we know it today. In fact, I can say with a fair amount of confidence, and I hope to be proven wrong, that if we don’t make some changes soon, it won’t be the same. That is a hard pill to swallow.  

Science, data, and our individual experiences have shown us that change has happened, is happening, and will happen in the foreseeable future. We can no longer ignore the warning signs.

The full Climate Risk Assessment can be accessed on the Health Department website at www.summitcountyhealth.org.

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When someone uses the term dynamic duo, most people immediately conjure up images of Batman and Robin, Jordan and Pippen (sorry Jazz fans), or Frodo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee. In some cases, these pairings are the result of luck, fate or happenstance. In other instances, the association is intentional with clearly defined outcomes, like producing a championship (again, sorry Jazz fans), or fighting the bad guys while standing for justice and bringing peace to their respective communities. Regardless of how the twosome came to be, these successful partnerships all have one thing in common: a synergistic energy that focuses on positive and lasting change.

While I approach the subject of famous duos with some humor, it should be noted that dynamic duos exist all around us in our daily lives. It might be two teachers working together to ensure a brighter future for our children, a partnership between our first responders to ensure our safety when a situation turns bad, or two people within the family unit doing everything they can to provide for their loved ones. While these partnerships may never reach stardom, they are essential to the fabric of our community. I am grateful for these duos and other partnerships that positively influence our communities. I tip my hat to them.

Summit County is home to one such dynamic duo working hard to earn its stripes. A few years back, the Summit County Sustainability Program joined the Summit County Health Department. At first glance, the overlap of the two disciplines was somewhat hazy. It took some time to “define the relationship.” However, the last four years have proven that this partnership makes perfect sense.

In October 2021, despite all that was going on in the world at that time, the World Health Organization prioritized a different human health concern by declaring, “Climate change is the single biggest health threat facing humanity, and health professionals worldwide are already responding to the health harms caused by this unfolding crisis.”

As a public health professional committed to helping improve health outcomes, I took this as a call to action. Our Sustainability partners did the same. At that moment, Public Health and Sustainability forged a bond as we focused on climate change and its impact on the public’s health. 

So, what’s next? Like any formidable duo, we have a plan.

Now, hear me out. You don’t eat an elephant all in one bite. That same sentiment applies here. Given the size of the task, we have to start small:

In May, we are kicking off the Climate Change and Public Health Speaker Series.

Although the idea of a speaker series is not ground-breaking or innovative, our focus is a little different from other events on this subject. Throughout the summer, there will be three distinct events covering different aspects of climate change and health in Summit County. Most forums and panels stop at the intersection of climate change and the environment, focusing on soil, air, and water changes, stopping short of how these changes influence human health on a personal level. These conversations are generally had among adults without consideration of those who will be impacted most: our children and young adults.

We are shaking things up by reserving seats for young adults and kids, having the event co-moderated by one of our local high school students, and bringing in the Woodwell Climate Research Center to share the findings of the Summit County Climate Risk assessment it completed in 2022. It is shaping up to be a great series of events that directly align with the topic at hand.

On the surface, finding synergy between Sustainability and the Health Department seems unlikely. Based on a quick internet search, others feel the same way, given that we are the only local government in Utah, and possibly the United States, with this structure. Whether it was by chance or careful planning, it was the right move. Doing so has allowed us to expand the conversation about climate change far beyond the traditional scope of our work. Although we are approaching the same end goal from different angles, we are both focused on achieving favorable outcomes for an emotionally charged topic. We recognize the road ahead is not an easy one, and suspect it will be a heroic undertaking. Lucky for us, I believe our dynamic duo is up to the task. 

Dr. Phil Bondurant is the director of the Summit County Health Department.

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Being active and being healthy go together like peanut butter and jelly. It is easy to be active in an area like Summit County, where outdoor recreational activities are available, year-round, and for every skill level, age, and interest. No matter the time of year, there is always something to do that allows us to stretch our legs and get the blood moving. With access to the greatest snow on earth, miles of hiking and biking trails just outside our homes and places of business, and lifetime of hunting and fishing opportunities in the Uintah Mountains, we live in an outdoor paradise teeming with activities that promote a happy and healthy lifestyle.

It is well documented that where you live directly influences your health outcomes. It should come as no surprise that Summit County has been among the top three healthiest counties in Utah for the last decade. According to an assessment by the County Health Rankings and Roadmaps organization, Summit County ranks second, only behind our northern neighbors, Morgan County. While this ranking system should not be considered public health doctrine, it does provide an interesting point of conversation while riding your mountain bike on the Mid Mountain Trail or during a moonlight snowshoe hike up Mirror Lake Highway. From a public health lens, there is little doubt that our built and natural environment contributes to a healthy, vibrant community in a big way.

Just like our location directly influences our health outcomes, social and cultural influences do the same. In Summit County, there are dozens of clubs, race circuits, and friend groups that have formed due to a shared interest in a specific activity. Any given day throughout the year the trailheads are packed with cars, the fields and courts are bustling with young, aspiring athletes, and the slopes are busy with skiers or mountain bikers, depending on the season. Even washed-up athletes like myself have the chance to play a variety of sports offered in men’s, women’s, and co-ed options. As a public health practitioner, I would be remiss if I failed to acknowledge the health benefits of hard work that our ranching and farming families experience from their daily labors. Their generational commitment to this lifestyle allows them to honor their pioneer heritage while experiencing health benefits from work that only a select few can do on a daily basis. I tip my hat to these folks.

Although the amount of activity and associated traffic is frustrating at times, given our once-favorite quiet and secluded spot is longer quiet and secluded, the buzz created by an active community offers reminders about how wonderful the Wasatch Back is and how fortunate we are to call this place home. Generally speaking, the outdoor scene and the social influences we are surrounded by act as motivating factors for a healthy lifestyle.

While the stuff in the middle of a good old fashioned PB & J generally garners all the attention, we cannot forget about the important role of the bread in this American lunchtime staple. Just like two slices from your favorite loaf complete the sandwich, there is a third element that helps sustain a healthy, active community by bringing it all together, the local health department.  

The Summit County Health Department is tasked with connecting the environment, available activities, and social networks to help the community live long, healthy, and happy lives through awareness, preparedness, and education on matters directly related to health outcomes. For public health in Summit County, the resource offered by local governments, our collaboration with colleagues at the hospital, and the connection to a strong non-profit network give life to the activities described above. It should be noted that this short list of public health influencers is by no means complete, and I recognize that many of the activities listed above would not be possible without a strong community-centric approach focused on the greater good of the community to produce tangible results.

For me, working in an area like Summit County is a public health professional’s dream. Yes, we absolutely have work to do around the topics of health equity, increasing access to services, and continuing the conversation about environmental stewardship, climate change, and sustainability. However, with the existing framework in Summit County that prioritizes resources for an active, healthy lifestyle, we have the ability to focus on innovative strategies aimed at finding success in our public health efforts. And, while being second in any statewide ranking survey is admirable and our focus is always on the people we serve, the competitive side of me wants Summit County to be number one in the future. Doing so does not define our success as a local health department, but taking the top spot would be representative, and deserving, of this great community and the focus placed on being healthy, active, and happy in all facets of physical and mental health.

Dr. Phil Bondurant is the director of the Summit County Health Department.

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