Health And Fitness

 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

 The Benton County Public Health Department reminds residents that although they are spending more time away from friends and family because of social distancing, state, county and local leaders recognize and appreciate the vital role they serve in stopping the spread of COVID-19.“This unprecedented time is not easy,” said Benton County Public Health Director Katie Cox “We want everyone to know that the actions they are taking - staying away from groups of people and keeping a 6-foot distance from other individuals – are important and make a difference.

Effective Tuesday, March 24, visitors are NOT allowed unless the visitor is a designated caregiver and the patient falls into one of four categories listed below:1. The patient is imminently dying.2. The patient is an infant or small child. In this case, only one designated parent/caregiver may be present in the room to support care of the patient.

County Public Health Department and the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) remind residents they play a vital role in stopping the spread of COVID-19. A critical part of containment is practicing social distancing.“Social distancing is a term used to describe certain action public health and individuals can take to stop or slow the spread of an infectious disease,” said Benton County Public Health Director Katie Cox.