Environmental public health services include programs such as food establishment inspections, daycare sanitation inspections, private drinking water system testing and consultation, on-site sewage system permits and consultations, state licensed lodging establishment inspections, and emergency situations such as truck wrecks or fires involving food products.

Complaints
Food
Daycare
Lodging
Water Samples
Sewage
Lead
Mold
West Nile

For complaints or questions regarding environmental health issues please contact the Hermann office at (573) 486-3129.

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Food establishments- restaurants, taverns, grocery stores, convenience stores, schools, food warehouses, food processors, fairs, caterers, and temporary food events are inspected regularly based on a public health priority basis. Basic food safety classes are provided upon request. Food related complaints are investigated. The health department responds to fires, truck wrecks and storm-damaged buildings are inspected when food, pharmaceutical drugs, or cosmetics are involved. 

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All licensed day cares are inspected under the state of Missouri, Bureau of Childcare guidelines. The inspections include sanitation, health and safety.

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Lodging establishments such as motels, hotels, and bed and breakfasts that have more than four sleeping rooms are inspected on a regular basis under state guidelines for health safety and sanitation. All such lodging establishments must be licensed by the state. For complaints relating to lodging establishments contact the Hermann office at (573) 486-3129.

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Water sampling kits for testing private wells are available at the Hermann, Owensville, and Linn offices. The kits include instructions and mailing labels. The sample must be mailed to the Missouri Public Health Laboratory in Jefferson City. The lab charges $10.00 for each sample. It is recommended that all private wells be tested annually for bacterial contamination. The water sampling kits are for used to determine whether well water is contaminated by bacteria. For chemical test of private water or for information regarding safety of private water please contact the Hermann office at (573) 486-3129.

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All on-site sewage related complaints are investigated. Permits are issued for on-site sewage systems. For more information on the state law affecting new and existing sewage systems, see the sewage brochure.

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Lead test swabs for checking paint may be available at your local hardware store or lumberyard. Lead risk assessments for the home and environment are provided when a child has an elevated blood level result from lead testing.

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Information on mold in the home, commercial properties or schools can be obtained from the Hermann office or at the Environmental Protection Agency at www.epa.gov

 
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During the mosquito season the public is encouraged to report sightings of dead crows, blue jays, or hawks to the county health department. For information on West Nile Virus go to: http://www.dhss.mo.gov/WestNileVirus/.
 

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