Idaho foster families will soon have even more opportunities to get outside together, thanks to a generous $2,500 donation in part from the Capitol City Kiwanis Club in Boise. The gift strengthens a long-standing partnership between the Department of Health and Welfare’s Child, Youth and Family Services Division and the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation.

The donation will help cover the cost of day-use passes, activity fees, and other outdoor recreation expenses. These supports make it easier for families to enjoy Idaho’s parks and public lands—creating space for connection, exploration, and healing.

“Thanks to the Kiwanis Club for your donations and for volunteering with the events and making this partnership successful,” said Parks and Recreation Director Susan Buxton. “Outdoor activities give children a chance to explore, have fun, and build confidence. This partnership helps make that possible.”

Nature-based experiences play an important role in helping children in care build positive memories and strengthen family relationships. Support from community partners helps expand those opportunities.

Parks and Recreation will work with DHW’s Child, Youth and Family Services Program to identify the activities and locations that best meet the needs of foster families, including park day passes, youth programs, and family-friendly events.

DHW is grateful for the Kiwanis Club’s generosity and hopes this gift encourages more Idaho organizations to support foster families in meaningful ways.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.

Each flu season is different, but one thing remains the same: influenza can be serious, particularly for older adults and people with underlying health conditions.

So far this season, Idaho has recorded two influenza-related deaths. While that number remains low for now, indicators suggest flu activity in the state is increasing.

On average, Idaho reports about 45 influenza-related deaths each year, with most occurring among people age 65 and older.

According to the CDC’s latest FluView surveillance update, there have been at least 1.9 million flu illnesses, 19,000 hospitalizations, and 730 deaths in the U.S. attributed to influenza so far this season. Public health officials continue to monitor trends as the season develops. 

Individuals and families may consider vaccinating for the flu for anyone 6 months and older. Idahoans are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider about what may be best for them and their family and to ask any questions. 

“We want people to understand that influenza is not always a minor illness,” said state Idaho State Epidemiologist Dr. Christine Hahn. “Flu can lead to loss of work time, missed school, and missed time with loved ones during the holidays. Flu activity is increasing both in Idaho and nationwide, with current data showing especially high levels of illness in parts of the eastern and southeastern United States.”

In addition to vaccination, everyday prevention measures still matter. Washing hands frequently, avoiding people who are sick, and staying home when ill can all help reduce the spread of respiratory viruses. Getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and eating nutritious foods also support overall health.

Flu symptoms often include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. While many people recover within a few days, influenza can lead to serious complications and, in some cases, death.

Learn more:

Idaho influenza information: http://flu.idaho.gov

CDC influenza resources: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/index.htm 

ACIP influenza vaccination recommendations: https://www.cdc.gov/acip-recs/hcp/vaccine-specific/flu.html

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at www.healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.   

A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) underscores a critical public health reality for Idaho: rabies, while rarely infecting humans,  remains an ongoing threat, and awareness of the risk is very important after any exposure to wildlife. 

Any potential exposure to rabies requires prompt medical evaluation because the disease is almost universally fatal once symptoms appear. In addition, a rapid public health response can assist the healthcare provider in determining the risk, and evaluating whether other people or pets may have been exposed.

Idaho’s investigation of the recent event started when the CDC reported a fatal case of rabies in a kidney transplant recipient in Ohio whose donated organ originated from an Idaho resident. Rabies was not suspected in the donor at the time the organ was recovered, and the infection was recognized only after the transplant recipient developed symptoms several weeks later. 

Once the diagnosis was confirmed, health agencies across multiple states initiated a comprehensive public health investigation to understand the source of infection and identify anyone who might have been exposed.

In Idaho, the Department of Health and Welfare (DHW), in partnership with the local public health district, other states, and CDC, conducted the public health investigation related to the donor. The investigation added key information needed by healthcare providers, and included clarifying the rabies exposure history, coordinating laboratory testing, assessing potential risks to others, and ensuring that appropriate recommendations for were made for anyone else who may have come into contact with the virus.

Interviews with the donor’s family provided important details not known during the initial clinical assessment. Several weeks before the donor became ill, he sustained a scratch during an encounter with an aggressive  a skunk on his rural property. 

Skunks are not a rabies reservoir in Idaho. However, bat-associated rabies variants circulate widely in the state, and bats can transmit the virus to other mammals. Laboratory testing by CDC later confirmed that the virus involved in this case was consistent with the silver-haired bat variant. It is likely that an infected bat had previously exposed the skunk to rabies. 

The resulting response, which included hundreds of exposure risk assessments, shows the importance of early public health consultation when evaluating potential rabies exposures. 

The case also reinforces well-established guidelines for Idahoans: 

• Avoid direct contact with bats or other wildlife exhibiting unusual behavior.
• Seek medical attention promptly after any potential exposure.
• Notify your local public health district after animal contact in which rabies exposure may have occurred. 

Rabies remains preventable with timely intervention. DHW will continue to collaborate with partners statewide and nationally to identify risks, conduct investigations, and protect Idaho communities from this rare but serious disease.

For more information from the CDC about rabies: https://www.cdc.gov/rabies/index.html

Dr. Christine Hahn is the Division of Public Health Medical Director and Idaho State Epidemiologist.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.

Thanksgiving is a time to gather, share a meal, and reflect on what we’re grateful for. As you plan your holiday feast, a few simple food safety steps can help keep your celebration healthy, safe, and stress-free. The Nebraska Regional Poison Center, which serves Nebraska, Idaho, and Wyoming, offers helpful reminders to make sure your Thanksgiving meal is prepared safely from start to finish.

Tips for a safe and delicious Thanksgiving

• Wash your hands.
  Everyone helping in the kitchen should wash their hands with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food.
• Keep your turkey refrigerated.
  Store your turkey in its original packaging in the refrigerator until it’s time to cook.
• Thaw the turkey safely.
  Plan ahead—thawing a turkey takes time. Large turkeys may take several days to thaw completely.
  • In the refrigerator: Allow one day for every 4 to 5 pounds.
  • Under cold running water: Keep the turkey in a leak-proof wrapper and change the water every 30 minutes.
• Use a meat thermometer.
  Make sure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F. This is the only reliable way to know it’s fully cooked.
• Store the turkey and stuffing separately.
  After cooking, refrigerate the turkey and stuffing in separate containers to help keep them fresh and safe.
• Handle leftovers the right way.
  Refrigerate leftover turkey within two hours and use it within 3 to 4 days. Stuffing and gravy should be eaten within 1 to 2 days.

Additional safety reminders

• Skip thawing on the counter.
  Thawing at room temperature allows bacteria to grow on the surface while the inside remains frozen.
• Limit time at room temperature.
  Don’t leave a thawed, uncooked turkey out of the refrigerator for more than two hours.
• Cook at a safe temperature.
  Set your oven to at least 325°F to ensure the turkey cooks thoroughly.
• Stay out of the kitchen if you’re sick.
  If you’re feeling unwell or have an eye or nose infection, it’s best to avoid preparing food to keep others safe.
• Refrigerate leftovers quickly.
  Don’t leave food sitting out for more than two hours after serving.
• Avoid refreezing a fully thawed turkey.
  Once a turkey has completely thawed, it should not be refrozen.
• Take care with stuffing.
  If you choose to stuff your turkey, do so lightly. Both the stuffing and turkey must reach 165°F to be safe to eat.

Following these simple steps can help ensure your Thanksgiving meal is both delicious and safe to share. With a little planning and care, you can focus on what matters most—good food, good company, and a holiday filled with gratitude.

Jarryd Samples is a health program manager in the Division of Public Health.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.

Each November, we observe National Adoption Month—a time to honor adoptive families, recognize the resilience of Idaho’s children in foster care, and reaffirm our commitment to finding every child a safe, loving, and permanent home.

Since stepping into my role as director, I have witnessed firsthand the life-changing impact that adoption has on children and families. Every adoption file I sign represents a deeply personal story—one shaped by loss, care, perseverance, and hope. These stories stay with me. They remind me why our work matters and why every child deserves the stability and support that only a permanent family can provide.

In Idaho, when reunification with a child’s parents is not possible, the court may terminate parental rights, and the child becomes available for adoption. Adoption is one of the most important paths to permanency, and for many children in foster care, it marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with belonging, opportunity, and a sense of home.

As a department, we are innovating child welfare in Idaho. Our efforts focus on strengthening families early, preventing children from entering foster care, supporting and expanding our network of foster and adoptive parents, and building partnerships that keep children safe and connected. Adoption remains an essential part of this work—especially for children and teens who, through no fault of their own, cannot return to their families of origin.

Idaho continues to need adoptive families for Idaho’s older youth. Teens in foster care often wait the longest for permanent homes, yet they are remarkable young people with so much to offer. Adoption for older youth can mean having someone to celebrate milestones with, a place to come home to on holidays, and a family that walks with them into adulthood. Those relationships often make all the difference.

National Adoption Month is also an opportunity for all Idahoans to take part. Whether by adopting, fostering, mentoring, volunteering, or simply sharing information, every contribution helps create stronger communities and brighter futures.

To Idaho’s adoptive families: thank you. Your dedication, compassion, and love change lives. You demonstrate every day what it means to show up, stand by a child, and give them a place to belong.

And to those who are considering becoming foster or adoptive parents, I encourage you to learn more. Idaho needs families who are willing to open their hearts and homes. Our team is here to guide you, answer questions, and support you every step of the way.

Every child deserves a family to call their own—and together, we can help make that a reality.

Learn More

• Adoption through foster care: https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/services-programs/children-families/child-and-family-services-and-foster-care/about-adoption
• Private adoption information: https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/services-programs/children-families/child-and-family-services-and-foster-care/private-adoption
• Adoption and guardianship assistance: https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/services-programs/children-families-older-adults/child-and-family-services-and-foster-care/adoption

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.

The iconic blue turf at Albertsons Stadium was filled with laughter, cheers, and high-fives Tuesday night as Boise State University student-athletes welcomed foster families for the second annual Fostering Future Broncos event.

Nearly 100 children and their foster families rotated through stations where Bronco student-athletes introduced new skills, encouraged friendly competition, and helped uncover hidden talents.

Football was a clear favorite. Kids learned to throw like a quarterback, block like a lineman, and kick for the extra point — all on the famous BLUE. But the fun didn’t stop there. Student-athletes led activities in soccer, basketball, gymnastics, golf, racing, beach volleyball, and even spontaneous dance circles.

Inside the Hall of Fame, families recharged with pizza and refreshments while kids proudly showed off colorful friendship bracelets they made at a crafting station.

For many foster youth, the night opened the door to brand-new experiences. “He’s never even held a football before,” said one foster mom of her 12-year-old. Moments later, he kicked a blue ball through the uprights. The smile on his face — and hers — said everything.

Every celebration brought cheers: a golf ball sinking into its target, a three-pointer swishing through the net, a soccer shot hitting the goal, a football landing just where it was aimed. Each success came with encouragement from Bronco student-athletes offering fist bumps, high fives, and heartfelt congratulations.

This uplifting event was made possible through a partnership between the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare’s Division of Family and Community Partnerships, Boise State Athletics, BroncoLife, and Freedom Youth Foundation. Together, they created a night of joy, confidence-building, and connection — reminding every child on the field that they are capable, valued, and supported.

“This event gives our kids a chance to try something new, build confidence, and simply be celebrated,” said DHW Director Juliet Charron. “Seeing the joy on their faces, and the support from the student-athletes and our community partners, is a powerful reminder that every child deserves hope, encouragement, and a team cheering them on.”

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.

This holiday season, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare’s Family and Community Partnerships division is teaming up with Book It Forward! Idaho and Barnes & Noble to bring something truly special to children in foster care: the joy of receiving books chosen just for them.

Books open doors to imagination, comfort, adventure, and belonging.  Every child deserves that experience. With your help, we can make sure foster families across Idaho receive books that feel personal and magical this holiday season.

Foster families are sharing their children’s favorite stories, topics, and reading levels to help create personalized wish lists. That means when someone buys a book from these lists, it’s not just a gift—it’s a gift chosen with the child in mind.

There are several ways Idahoans can take part, whether you shop in-store or online.

1. Nov. 1 – Dec. 15: Barnes & Noble Holiday Book Drive

   Throughout the season, Barnes & Noble customers can donate books for Idaho foster children right at the register. Boise and Twin Falls locations have set out wish list books in baskets and tables around the store, making it easy for patrons to purchase from the lists of foster kids.  Donated books will be collected, sorted, and delivered to families before the holidays.

2. Twin Falls Barnes & Noble Bookfair Event – Saturday, Nov. 8 – Sunday, Nov. 9

   A full day of holiday activities, including:

   • Story time with hands-on children’s activities at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m.
   • Book It Forward! Idaho volunteers onsite to share information and help shoppers participate
   • Foster family wish list books available for purchase and donation

   Use voucher code 12920237 for any in-store purchases that day—books, toys, and gifts count! A portion of proceeds will help buy more books for foster children.

3. Boise Barnes & Noble Bookfair Event – Saturday, Nov. 22

   The same fun experience, now in the Treasure Valley, where wish lists for most of the state will be fulfilled.

   • Book It Forward! Idaho tabling at the entrance
   • Story time and activities for kids
   • Foster youth wish list books available for purchase
   • Use voucher code: 12894796 at checkout to support the book drive

4. Online Book Drive – Nov. 22–27

   Even if you can’t visit a store, you can still give a child the gift of reading.

   • Shop online at bn.com/bookfairs using voucher code: 12894796
   • A portion of sales will go toward purchasing books from foster children’s wish lists
   • Books purchased directly from wish lists can be shipped straight to regional DHW offices

   More details and wish list links will be shared as the online drive opens.

5. Invite others to participate

   Share this event with friends, family, and social media contacts. 

   Books are more than objects—they’re experiences.

   • A child who loves dinosaurs gets the next big adventure in their favorite series.
   • A teen who has moved often gets a book that matches their interests—not a generic gift.
   • Siblings can receive stories they enjoy together.
   • Foster parents can build a library of comfort and joy in their home.

   With help from Book It Forward! Idaho, Barnes & Noble, community sponsors, and caring Idahoans, we hope every foster child receives books picked with love.

   Every book donated becomes a gift a child can open, hold, explore, and remember.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.