Health And Fitness
Benton County Reminds Residents Social Distancing is Important Outdoors, Too
Benton County Public Health thanks all residents that are following social distancing guidelines to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. It’s important to remember to follow these guidelines even when outside.“We encourage residents to spend time outdoors when possible because it’s beneficial to mental health and physical activity is a necessary part of a healthy lifestyle,” said Benton County Public Health Director Katie Cox.
FDA Requests Recovered COVID-19 patients to Donate Plasma
As part of the all-of-America approach to fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has been working with partners across the U.S. government, academia and industry to expedite the development and availability of critical medical products to treat this novel virus. Today, we are providing an [upd] on one potential treatment called convalescent plasma and encouraging those who have recovered from COVID-19 to donate plasma to help others fight this disease.
VGH Family Medical Clinics open to Provide Medical Services
The Virginia Gay Family Medical Clinics in Vinton, Urbana, Atkins and Van Horne are open and continue to provide the same excellent medical care to our communities you’ve come to expect. The difference now is we’ve changed our processes a bit to keep you and our staff as safe as possible during this COVID19 pandemic. This includes alternate entrances and telehealth visits when necessary.
Benton County Public Health Advises Against Easter Travels
Easter and spring holidays are a traditional time of family gatherings, celebrations and observances. Like many other events and activities, Benton County Public Health advises residents that these observances should be different this year. “We know many families gather together over Easter and Passover,” said Benton County Public Health Director Katie Cox.
COVID-19 Death Confirmed in Benton County
The Benton County Department of Public Health today announced the first death associated with novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the county. “We wish to extend our sympathy to this individual’s family,” said Benton County Public Health Director Katie Cox. “Benton County Public Health and all of our key partners throughout the county and state continue to work to limit the spread and impact of this virus in our communities.
FDA Coordinates National Effort to Develop Blood-Related Therapies for COVID-19
Shared by request of the FDA:The U.S. Food and Drug Administration continues to play a critical role in accelerating medical countermeasures to treat and prevent COVID-19. As part of the response to this pandemic, the agency is taking the lead on a national effort to facilitate the development of, and access to, two investigational therapies derived from human blood.
Health Coverage Options available if COVID-19 has affected your coverage
Insurance Commissioner Reminds Iowans Experiencing Economic Impact Due to Covid-19 to Consider ACA Special Enrollment Periods and Other Health Coverage OptionsDes Moines – Iowans who have experienced change in employment status due to COVID-19 may be eligible to enroll in Affordable Care Act (ACA) coverage through healthcare.gov. A special enrollment period (SEP) is a period outside of open enrollment when a person can enroll in or switch ACA coverage.
FDA advises how to use hand sanitizer
Soap and water really do work and is probably better for you in the long run. However, if they are NOT available, hand sanitizer is your go-to.From the FDA:"Each of us can help stop the spread of COVID-19 disease by washing our hands regularly with soap and water for 20 seconds – especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.
New Hours for VGH Clinics
Beginning Wednesday, April 1, clinic hours at the Atkins, Urban and Vinton Family Medical Clinics will change as follows until further notice:Atkins: Monday-Thursday, 7 am - 5 pm and Friday 7 am-4 pmUrbana: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 7 am - 5 pm and Wednesday 7 am-4 pmVinton: Monday-Friday 7 am-5 pm and Saturday 8 am-NoonThere are no changes to the hours at the Van Horne location at this time. April WOW Newsletter
Attached you will find your edition of the April 2020 WOW newsletter. This edition features:Be Active as a FamilyRecipe for Chicken Salad (Great on a sandwich!)Visit a Farmers MarketFarmers Market Food Safety Bonus Links: Meals and Snacks from the Pantry, Prepare Your Pantry- But Don't Panic, and more.