Winter in northern Minnesota brings snow-covered fields, shorter days—and an increased risk of seasonal illness. As we spend more time indoors, cases of flu, RSV, pneumonia, and other respiratory illnesses tend to rise. The good news? Many of the most effective steps to stay healthy this winter can happen right here at home—and right here at Kittson Healthcare.
Preventative Care Makes a Difference
One of the most important ways to protect yourself and your loved ones during winter is staying up to date on recommended vaccinations.
Seasonal vaccines help reduce the risk of serious illness, hospitalization, and complications—especially for older adults, young children, and those with chronic conditions.
Preventive services available locally may include:
- Flu vaccinations
- Pneumonia vaccines
- RSV protection (for eligible patients)
- Routine wellness and chronic care checkups
“Our goal is to help patients stay healthy before illness becomes serious,” shared Hospital Director of Nursing, Kalie Bjerke, RN. “Getting vaccinated and addressing symptoms early can prevent complications and keep people out of the hospital.”
Jen Peterson, Clinic Director of Nursing, supplies "Staying up to date on vaccines can reduce the need for urgent care, especially during the winter. When patients do get sick, we do our best to accommodate same-day visits, prioritizing those with acute symptoms within our limited clinic capacity."
If you’re unsure which vaccines are right for you or your family, your primary care provider can help guide those decisions.
Clinic or Emergency Room? Knowing Where to Go
During winter, knowing when to visit the clinic versus the Emergency Room can make a big difference—not only for your care, but for the community as a whole.
Visit the clinic for:
- Flu-like symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat)
- Cold symptoms lasting several days
- Ear infections
- Mild breathing concerns
- Medication concerns or refills
- Preventive care and wellness visits
Seek emergency care for:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Sudden confusion or weakness
- Severe dehydration
- Serious injuries or trauma
Kittson Healthcare’s Emergency Room is fully staffed 24/7 and supported by advanced tele-emergency services, ensuring high-quality care is always available when it’s truly needed.
“When patients use the clinic for routine or early care, it helps keep our ER available for emergencies,” said Kalie Bjerke, RN. “That benefits everyone in our community.”
Simple Tips to Prevent Winter Illness at Home
Small, everyday habits can go a long way in keeping households healthy throughout the winter months.
Winter wellness tips include:
- Wash hands frequently and thoroughly
- Stay home when sick to avoid spreading illness
- Keep common surfaces clean and disinfected
- Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated
- Get enough rest—even during busy holiday schedules
- Monitor symptoms closely, especially for seniors and children
For those caring for aging parents or loved ones, staying alert to early signs of illness can prevent more serious complications.
Local Care Strengthens Our Community
Choosing to receive care locally does more than save you travel time—it helps sustain healthcare services right here in Kittson County. When community members utilize local clinics, outpatient services, and preventive care, it supports staffing, equipment, and access to care close to home.
This winter, let Kittson Healthcare be your first stop for wellness, prevention, and trusted care.
If you have questions about vaccines, symptoms, or scheduling an appointment, contact Kittson Healthcare today. Together, we can keep our community healthy—starting at home.
