COVID-19 Update
The Omicron variant is now the primary form of COVID-19 circulating in Iowa. With the Omicron variant we recommend the same prevention techniques and highly recommend that all persons eligible for a booster dose receive one.
In Dallas County, we are seeing a seven day average case rate of 755 per 100,000 (as of 1/28/22). Dallas County is currently 66% fully vaccinated, among which 31% are up-to-date (persons receiving all recommended vaccines, including booster doses). Highest rates of vaccination continue to be among our older adult population.
If you have been exposed to a positive case of COVID-19 or are feeling unwell, you can pick up a saliva PCR COVID-19 test kit at our office. We ask that you call from the parking lot and a staff member will bring your test kits to you. These kits can also be ordered through testiowa.com.
To find more information on COVID-19 in Dallas County visit linktr.ee/DallasCoHealthCOVID19Info
In Other News
Influenza activity in Iowa is moderate. Young children, older adults, pregnant women, and persons with chronic medical conditions are most likely to have complications from the flu. We recommend that everyone 6 months and older receive an annual flu shot to protect both self and community during flu season. Read the current Flu Report at idph.gov!
I am seeking presenters for our 2022 Community Health Speaker Series. If you would like to share about a program or initiative that influences the health of Dallas County residents, please reach out to me! We look at the entire spectrum of health determinants so anything influencing access to care, education, community, economic stability, food, or neighborhood & physical environment would be welcome. Our 2022 Speaker Series will take place on March 3rd, June 2nd, September 2nd, and December 1st.
Healthcare and Public Health leaders from Dallas, Polk, and Warren counties have collaborated to assess the health of our communities. This assessment can be used to direct strategic planning and agency goals, guide & evaluate programming, apply for funding, communicate needs and strengths of the county, and inform policy.
Click this link to read the full findings!
Have you missed seeing us at community events? We now have a virtual event table that includes handouts and activities. Our virtual table currently contains mental wellness themed materials. Visit our virtual event table at linktr.ee/DCHD_VirtualEventTable
I will be co-teaching a Family Mindfulness Series with ISU Extension & Outreach in Dallas County in February. This program is open at no cost to any Dallas County families with children in grades 4-12. If your family is interested in learning about mindfulness together, register at https://go.iastate.edu/EUFP2H!
Happy February!
Abigail Chihak, MSW, MPH
Community Health Administrator
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