Polk County Health Department

04/15/2026

This April, as we recognize Sexual Assault Awareness Month ( ), we want to acknowledge a significant moment for Iowa victim services.

Earlier this year, ICADV assumed statewide sexual assault coalition responsibilities. As such, we are in a period of transformation to become Iowa's dual sexual and domestic violence coalition. This is a significant moment for the landscape of victim services. It is important to highlight that this was a coalition-level transition only. The help and assistance survivors depend on statewide through our network of 25 victim service provider organizations have not changed.

Sexual violence coalition services have a strong, protected home going forward, with dedicated staff, specialized expertise, and guarded resources cultivated specifically for this work. This transformation is about building a foundation that ensures Iowa victim service providers have the support and training they need. Sexual and domestic violence work – while linked – will remain distinct priorities and stand as equal pillars as we move forward.

We are not coming into this space as experts. We are coming in as partners – ready to listen, ready to learn, and committed to showing up for sexual violence service providers across Iowa every single day.

This month, we are lifting five truths about sexual violence, healing, and what it means to truly be an ally, supporter, and advocate against all forms of sexual violence: When survivors speak, we must listen. No matter when. No matter how. We believe you.

To connect with the victim service provider organization in your area, visit www.icadv.org/survivorsupport. You can also call the Iowa Victim Service Call Center – 1.800.770.1650 or text “iowahelp” to 20121.

04/13/2026

This week, we’re recognizing Black Maternal Health Week (April 11–17) and standing with to uplift this year’s theme: Rooted in Justice and Joy.

More than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable—yet Black women are still disproportionately impacted.

Everyone deserves safe, respectful care and the opportunity to thrive before, during, and after pregnancy.

is about elevating Black-led solutions, honoring lived experiences, and advancing a future where Black families can access care, dignity, and joy.

04/10/2026

Public health is people. People who show up, solve problems, and make a difference every day in Polk County.

If you are lucky enough to know one of these cuties, be sure to wish them a happy National Public Health Week! ☺️

04/10/2026

Come out this Saturday to enjoy the block party of the year, hosted by Drake University Head Start ! Bring your families for a fun-filled day of games, live entertainment, and delicious food trucks.

Be sure to stop by and say hello at the Polk County Health Department booth!

Drake University Campus (Near Olmsted)
2875 University Ave. Des Moines
April 11th 11:00-3:00 PM

04/09/2026

New tools: unlocked. 🔓 Next level: loading. 🎮⬆️

Thanks to Iowa Public Health Association for another great Public Health Conference of Iowa! The theme this year was , and we’re leaving ready to activate new tools and strategies in our community.

04/08/2026

Safe, stable housing is foundational to health.

Grateful to be part of the Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity Women Build Breakfast conversation about how we support older Iowans in staying safely in their homes, maintaining independence, and staying connected to their communities.

Housing is health!

04/08/2026

No family should have to worry about lead in their home.

Thanks to this investment, we’re continuing our work to reduce lead hazards in older homes and help keep Polk County families safe.

Watch to learn more about the impact—and how this program is making a difference.

04/07/2026

Measles is preventable with the safe and highly effective measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Make sure you and your family are up-to-date on vaccines, and talk to your provider if you have questions.

Per CDC data, there have been over 1,670 confirmed measles cases reported in the U.S. this year. For comparison, there were 2,286 confirmed cases reported in all of 2025, which is more than any year since 1991 and could put the U.S. measles elimination status at risk.

About 92% of people who have contracted measles this year have been unvaccinated or had an unknown status. Experts say it is likely that cases are significantly undercounted, as many go unreported.

The AAP recommends ensuring patients are covered with a two-dose measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination series. Read the full update in AAP News:
https://bit.ly/4vdnxjN

04/06/2026

Public health isn’t always loud. Most of the time, it’s the things you don’t see.

It’s the illness that never spreads.
The overdose that never happens.
The diagnosis caught early enough to treat.
The crisis that’s prevented before it begins.

It’s people connected to care, resources within reach, and communities built to keep us safe and healthy.

This is public health. And it’s working—every single day.

04/03/2026

04/03/2026

⚠️ Recall Alert: Dino Nuggets

USDA FSIS has issued a recall alert for certain Great Value dino-shaped chicken nuggets that may contain unsafe levels of lead. These products are no longer sold but may still be in home freezers.

Check your freezer for:

• Great Value Fully Cooked Dino-Shaped Chicken Breast Nuggets 29 oz bag
• Best if used by Feb. 10, 2027
• Lot code 0416DPO1215
• Establishment P44164

Do not eat them. Throw them away or return to the store for a refund.

There is no safe level of lead exposure, especially for children and people who are pregnant.