Respiratory Illness Update
In Iowa, we are seeing moderate levels of COVID-19 and low levels of flu. We expect to see seasonal increases in flu and COVID-19 infections.
We want to remind everyone to stay home if you are feeling unwell. Help us limit the spread of germs by keeping them contained as best as you can.
- Practice good handwashing
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Stay home if you aren't feeling well
- Clean high touch surfaces frequently
Vaccines are still available for flu, COVID-19, and RSV. Talk to your health care provider about the seasonal vaccine options available to you.
COVID-19 Tests Available for Order
HHS Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response has made COVID-19 tests available for order once again. Every U.S. household can order 4-8 tests at COVIDtests.gov
State Public Health Reports
Find information and data from our partners at Iowa HHS:
Syphilis in our Babies
CDC and Iowa HHS have noted a concerning increase in congenital syphilis cases. Once rare, Iowa saw more cases in 2021 than the last 20 years combined and the numbers have continued to increase since.
Quality pre-natal care is crucial in caring for pregnant women and their babies. Because symptoms may not be obvious, Iowa HHS recommends testing for syphilis among pregnant women at three intervals: at the first prenatal visit, at 28-32 weeks, and at delivery.
If left untreated, infants with congenital syphilis are more likely to have lifelong complications.
Salt and Blood Pressure
The results of one of the largest research efforts looking at the impact of salt on blood pressure found that most people, whether on a blood pressure medication or not, are likely to see a reduction of their blood pressure when they lower the sodium in their diet.
Nearly 1 in 4 Dallas County adults currently has high blood pressure. High blood pressure can damage our blood vessels and lead to heart disease, the number one cause of death in Dallas County.
Open Enrollment Ends Soon
Eligible for Medicare? Pick your 2024 plan by December 7th! Consider meeting with a SHIIP Counselor to explore your options and find a plan that best meets your needs.
Seeking coverage on the Health Insurance Marketplace®? Enroll by December 15th for coverage that starts January 1. Explore the plans available to you at HealthCare.gov
Office Closures
Dallas County Health Department will be closed December 25th-26th and January 1st for the winter holidays.
Public Health in the New Year
2023 will soon be behind us. Can you believe it?! Plan to interact with us throughout 2024.
- Complete the Community Health Assessment Survey (early 2024 launch)
- Invite a Health Educator to speak at your event
- Attend a Community Health meeting (quarterly)
- Engage with us on Social Media (@DallasCoHealth)
- Request a free well-test
- Visit our monthly STI Testing Clinic
Have a Healthy December! See you in 2024!
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