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Dallas County Community Health Newsletter
November, 2021
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This newsletter gives an overview of services and events in and around Dallas County in the upcoming month that are related to health and social well-being. If you or someone you know need more information about resources or services, please contact Dallas County Health Navigation at (515) 993-3750.
COVID-19 Update
COVID-19 continues to affect residents in Dallas County. As of November 1, 2021, there were 172 cases Dallas County residents currently sick with COVID-19. Dallas County Health Department advises that all persons that test positive for COVID-19 stay home and away from other 10 days from their first symptoms (or test date if no symptoms).
Quarantine remains best practice for anyone that has been exposed to COVID-19. 14 days is best practice but there are two options to shorten a quarantine:
- 10 days-No testing is required but the exposed person must remain free of symptoms and should monitor for symptoms an additional 4 days.
- 7 days-A negative test is required on or after day 5 and the exposed person must remain free of symptoms. Symptom monitoring should continue an additional 7 days.
Vaccination rates continue to increase for Dallas County youth and older adults. Five out of seven eligible residents have received a COVID-19 vaccine (71%).
 In October there were several big announcements regarding COVID-19 booster shots. Pfizer & Moderna booster shots are now available to eligible populations at least 6 months after the second dose. J&J booster shots are available to anyone 18 years and older at least 2 months after the first dose.
Additionally, persons with specific conditions affecting their immune system are eligible for a third dose of an mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna).
 In November, we expect to hear from the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) about vaccinations for children. As soon as this information is available to us we will share it via our Facebook page.
If you have any questions about COVID-19, please give our office a call. Our staff are happy to listen to you and answer any of your questions!
You can reach us at 515-993-3750, phn@dallascountyiowa.gov, or @DallasCoHealth on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
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Monthly Community Health Message
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November is Family Health History Month! As you gather with family, ask about your shared health history. Understanding what illnesses are common in your family will help you take proactive steps to reduce your risk.
Click image to learn more! |
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The Medicare Open Enrollment period runs from October 15th to December 7th. If you need to talk to a SHIIP counselor about the Medicare plans available to you, call 1-800-351-4664.
The National Council on Aging has compiled a toolkit to help counsel those deciding whether to join or switch their Medicare health or drug plans in 2022. Find it here!
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Introducing HIRTA's volunteer program! HIRTA has started an RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program) in Madison and Marion counties to provide medical transportation, food support, and companionship. HIRTA has also partnered with Boone RSVP and United Way of Central Iowa to provide medical transportation in Boone, Dallas, and Warren counties. All volunteer services will be available for older adults, people with disabilities, people with lower incomes, and veterans.
We are currently recruiting volunteers in these counties. For more information or to apply, go to www.RideHIRTA.com/volunteer. Please contact Mildred Chihak with any questions at mchihak@ridehirta.com
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Complete the Iowa LGBTQ Health Needs Assessment! The Iowa Department of Public Health and One Iowa are partnering to gather information from adult Iowans 18 and older to better understand the physical and mental health status, wellness, and health care experiences of the LGBTQ community. Complete the survey here! |
Happening this November!
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Connect 2 Careers Drop In & Informational Event
November 2, 2021
Waukee Public Library, 950 Warrior Lane
Visit with a career planner to explore career paths, finding sustainable employment, or overcoming barriers to employment!
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Strategies for working with young children with challenging behaviors-Webinar Series
November 2, 9, & 16 11:30am-1:30pm
This virtual series will focus on providing an overview of the Family Interaction Training, including strategies for implementation and tailoring materials to meet the needs of participating families and children. Learn more here!
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Grant Writing Training- Evaluation and Sustainability
November 9, 2021 10:00am
Participants of this HRSA webinar will learn about the types of evaluation and data, evaluation plan design, tools and resources, and program sustainability, in order to support successful grant applications. Learn more here!
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Iowa Diabetes & Wellness Summit
November 10 & 17, 2021
This summit will feature national, state, and local experts and share innovative and best practice strategies to reduce the burden of diabetes and empower patients and their families to live healthier lives. Learn more here!
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NAMI Iowa Annual Conference
November 12, 2021 9:00am-4:00pm
This virtual conference will provide educational opportunities for individuals living with mental illnesses, their loved ones and mental health professionals. Learn more here!
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Common Family Reactions to Mental Illness
November 16th 12:00-1:00pm
Understanding why people experience things differently can help to ease tension & increase acceptance. Explore the stages of emotional response, the stages of the caregiving experience, and learn how to respond and cope. Learn more here!
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Planning for Health: Supporting Community Health through the Built Environment
November 17, 2021 2-3:30pm
This webinar will discuss how we can leverage the power of planning to create communities that drive positive health outcomes. Learn more here!
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Save the Date!
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2022 Equity Summit
January 11-13, 2022
Smart Growth America will be hosting an Equity Summit where attendees will learn about improving racial disparities through built environment and community development initiatives. Learn more here!
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Beyond the Bus: Healthcare on the Move
April 12, 2022 9:00am-4:00pm
This event will focus on barriers to healthcare, the connection between transportation and health equity, and the role public transit plays in increasing access to healthcare for all.
Learn more here!
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If you have an event, topic, or resource you want showcased in next month's newsletter please email the information to our Community Health Administrator, Abigail Chihak, at abigail.chihak@dallascountyiowa.gov |
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