When enjoying the outdoors, do not approach wild birds that appear sick or dead and bring them home. Sick birds can carry germs, like Salmonella and avian influenza.

Learn more about avian flu from Iowa DNR: https://www.iowadnr.gov/About-DNR/DNR-News-Releases/ArticleID/5271/Resurgence-of-avian-influenza-in-wild-birds

🎉 Happy New Year!

We’re excited to share our January and February schedule for Vaccines & Lead Testing for Children!

📅 Be sure to check out the dates and times, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

📞 Contact us at 319-653-7758 for more information.

Wishing you a healthy and joyful start to 2025! 🌟

🚨 Norovirus Alert: Stay Healthy Returning to School!

Norovirus cases are on the rise across the U.S., and with schools back in session, it’s more important than ever to protect your family from this highly contagious virus.

Often called the "stomach flu," Norovirus is NOT related to influenza but spreads just as easily—through contact with infected people, contaminated surfaces, or food.

🤢 Tips to Stop the Spread:
🤢 WASH YOUR HANDS often with soap and water (hand sanitizer doesn’t work on Norovirus).
🤢 Avoid touching your face, especially your mouth.
🤢 Cook food thoroughly to safe temperatures.
🤢 Stay home if you're feeling sick, and don’t prepare food or care for others while ill.
🤢 Clean & Disinfect: After vomiting or diarrhea, clean surfaces with bleach and wash laundry with HOT water and detergent.

🤒 Know the Symptoms:
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Stomach pain or cramps
Fever
Body aches
Headaches
Dehydration

If your child or family member feels unwell, please keep them home to rest and hydrate. Together, we can reduce the spread and keep our schools healthy!

📣 Caregiver 101 Courses Now Available!

Heritage Area Agency on Aging is offering Caregiver 101, a series of free courses designed to support and educate caregivers. These sessions are available both in-person and via Zoom for your convenience.

For more information or questions, please contact Heritage Area Agency on Aging at 319-398-5559.

Take advantage of this valuable opportunity to enhance your caregiving skills!

Better Choices, Better Health: A 6-week evidence based program that helps adults and caregivers manage the symptoms of chronic diseases in a group setting. More detailed information can be found here: https://hhs.iowa.gov/programs/programs-and-services/better-choices-better-health

Who is invited: Individuals living with chronic conditions, including diabetes, cancer, depression, anxiety, as well as their caregivers

How much will it cost: FREE; and you will receive 3 free fresh produce boxes!

When are the meetings: Tuesdays from 11:00 AM -1:30 PM, January 14th - February 25th (The January 14th class is OPTIONAL and is a training/help session to familiarize yourself with Microsoft Teams)

Where will this be held: The class will be all online, via Microsoft Teams (you do not need an account to join a Teams meeting) you will be sent the link to join the class upon completing registration. You can join Teams via smart phone or computer, as long as you have a working camera and microphone.

Sign up: https://forms.office.com/g/J1DADxPEZk?origin=lprLink
Questions: Hanna.degeest@hhs.iowa.gov

🌬️ Stay Warm this Winter! 🧥❄️

Dressing for the cold is all about layering and protecting yourself from the elements. Here are some tips to keep cozy:

1️⃣ Layer Up:
Base Layer: Start with a moisture-wicking layer to keep sweat off your skin.
Middle Layer: Add insulation like a fleece or sweater to trap body heat.
Outer Layer: Choose a windproof and waterproof jacket to shield you from the cold and wet.

2️⃣ Cover Your Head:
Wear a warm hat or beanie to prevent heat loss from your head.

3️⃣ Protect Your Hands and Feet:
Insulated gloves or mittens are a must.
Wear thick socks (wool works great) and warm, waterproof boots.

4️⃣ Don’t Forget the Neck:
A scarf or neck warmer can help seal in heat and keep the chill off your face.

5️⃣ Think About Layers for Your Legs:
Wear thermal leggings under jeans or pants for extra warmth.

6️⃣ Brighten Up:
If you're walking or biking, choose bright colors or reflective elements to stay visible in low light.

Stay safe, stay warm, and enjoy the season!

🌟 New Year, Healthy You! 🌟

As we kick off the year, let’s prioritize our health and wellness. Hard to believe we are half way through January, but it's never to late to start taking care of ourselves!

January is a great time to:

✅ Schedule your annual check-ups and screenings
✅ Get your flu shot (it’s not too late!)
✅ Commit to healthier eating, regular exercise, and self-care
✅ Test your home for radon – January is National Radon Action Month!

💡 Flu Vaccine Update: If you haven’t received your flu shot yet, it’s not too late! Flu season runs through spring, and getting vaccinated helps protect you and your loved ones.

Let’s make 2025 a year of health and happiness for everyone in our community. ❤️

#NewYearNewYou #FluShot #PublicHealth #HealthyCommunity

📢 Big News for Public Health! 🚫🎨

Red Dye 3, a synthetic food coloring used in some candies, baked goods, and even medications, has officially been banned! 🌟 This decision reflects growing awareness of the potential health risks associated with certain food additives.

🔍 Why it matters:

Studies have linked Red Dye 3 to health concerns, including possible impacts on behavior in children and risks of cancer in lab studies.
Removing this dye is a step toward a cleaner, healthier food system.
🍎 What you can do:

Check ingredient labels and choose products made with natural coloring or no added dyes.
Share this news with friends and family to spread awareness about making healthier choices.
💡 Learn more: For detailed information, visit the FDA’s update: https://www.fda.gov/food/hfp-constituent-updates/fda-revoke-authorization-use-red-no-3-food-and-ingested-drugs

Let’s celebrate this step forward and continue advocating for safe, transparent food practices!

#RedDye3Ban #HealthyLiving #CleanEating #FoodSafety


The FDA is revoking the authorization for the use of FD&C Red No. 3 based on the Delaney Clause of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act).

🤗 Happy National Hug Day! 🤗

Hugs are the best... but you know what’s NOT fun to share? RSV and the flu! 😷

🛑 Let’s keep hugs germ-free this season:
✅ Get your flu vaccine 💉
✅ Wash those hands like a pro 🧼
✅ Stay home if you’re feeling sick 🤒

Because the only thing better than a hug is a healthy hug! Spread love, not germs! ❤️

#NationalHugDay #FluSeason #HugsAreHealthy #SpreadLoveNotGerms

🎉 Exciting News! 🎉

Our January & February Schedule for Vaccines & Lead Testing for Children is here! 🗓️

👶💉 Protect your little ones and keep them healthy this winter—check out the dates and times that work for you!

👉 Have questions or need more details? We're just a call away!
📞 319-653-7758

Let’s kick off the new year with happy, healthy kids! 🥳💙
#HealthyKids #VaccinesWork #LeadTesting #CommunityHealth

🥧 It’s National Pie Day! 🥧

We all love a slice of pie 🥮, but let’s not forget to serve up some healthy habits on the side!

What’s your favorite kind of pie? 🍎🍫🍋 Tell us in the comments 👇 and check out these “pie tips” for a healthier YOU:

🍏 Apple Pie reminds us to eat plenty of fruits & veggies daily!
🍋 Key Lime Pie is tart, just like a reminder to drink water instead of sugary drinks.
🎃 Pumpkin Pie? Don’t forget your flu shot—it’s still flu season! 💉
🍫 Chocolate Pie? Enjoy the sweet stuff in moderation (or save a slice for later!).

BONUS: Are you Team Sweet 🧁 or Team Savory 🥧? Let’s settle this delicious debate!

Drop your answers below and celebrate smart choices this Pie Day! ❤️

#NationalPieDay #HealthyHabits #SmartChoices #CommunityHealth

📣 Caregiver 101 Courses Now Available!

Heritage Area Agency on Aging is offering Caregiver 101, a series of free courses designed to support and educate caregivers. These sessions are available both in-person and via Zoom for your convenience.

For more information or questions, please contact Heritage Area Agency on Aging at 319-398-5559.

Take advantage of this valuable opportunity to enhance your caregiving skills!

🚨 Cold & Flu Season Alert! 🚨

We know sickness is making its way through the schools right now! 🤒 To help keep everyone healthy, here are some important guidelines on when kids should stay home and when they’re okay to return to school:

✅ Keep your child home if they have:
• A fever of 100.4°F or higher (They should be fever-free for 24 hours without medication before returning.)
• Vomiting or diarrhea (Wait 24 hours after the last episode before sending them back.)
• Persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, or other flu-like symptoms.
• A contagious illness like strep throat, pink eye, or COVID-19

🏫 They can return to school when:
• They’ve been fever-free for 24 hours without medicine.
• They have no vomiting or diarrhea for 24 hours.
• They’re feeling well enough to participate in class.

Keeping sick kids home helps protect classmates, teachers, and staff! Let’s work together to keep our schools as healthy as possible. 💙

#StayHealthy #ColdAndFluSeason #SchoolHealth













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Enjoy a meal, socialization and entertainment at Encore Express during February!

Adults 60+ (and spouses) can make reservations by calling 319-653-3950.

**Must make reservations before 1PM the Tuesday PRIOR to the meal!**