Monroe County Public Health

05/01/2026

05/01/2026

Just playing in a grassy yard or park may put you in contact with ticks in our rural slice of heaven. Always check yourself, your pets and your children to prevent the risk of illness. If a tick is attached, you'll want to remove it as soon as possible. No fancy gymnastics or acrobatics. Just a pair of tweezers as close to the area where the tick is attached and pull straight out. Ensure that all of the tick's head is removed and be mindful of any rashes or flu-like symptoms for a few weeks after. If any symptoms would occur and you seek healthcare, mention the tick bite and time frame to your healthcare provider.

04/29/2026

Explore cancer data for the State of Iowa. Since 2000, Iowa has a 40% increase in oral cavity and pharynx cancer. To read the report click here and to see the oral cavity and neck cancer rates in your county go to:
https://bit.ly/4u0naHX

04/29/2026

A study on rural Iowa adolescents found that 74% rarely or never wear a helmet, with only 13% reporting they always or mostly wear one.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), wearing a bicycle helmet reduces the risk of head injury by 48% to 69%, and the risk of fatal or severe traumatic brain injury by 65% to 88%. They are effective for all ages and significantly reduce the likelihood of skull fractures and facial injuries, cutting the overall risk of death or serious injury by 34%.

Public Health has some FREE bike helmets in our equipment closet that would look really cute on you. 😉

04/27/2026

Sign up here for Appanoose, Davis, Lucas, Monroe Counties/Alert Iowa Alerts! In the event of an emergency or severe weather, an alert will be sent to the phone number and/or email address provided by voice, text and/or email. This is a free service provided by Appanoose, Davis, Lucas, Monroe Counties and the State of Iowa, however, normal message fees may apply.
https://www.smart911.com/smart911/ref/reg.action?pa=ADLMCounties

04/23/2026

Well… we’re just going to say it.
We missed our Earth Day post. 😅

In the spirit of honesty (and public health), we believe transparency matters—and so does giving ourselves a little grace. If we weren’t running a bit behind now and then, life might be a little too on track.

But hey—better late than never, right?

🌎 What’s good for the planet is good for all of us.

With this early warm weather, here are a couple easy ways to celebrate Earth Day (even fashionably late):
💧 Stay hydrated—your body will thank you.
🥬 Add some leafy greens to your plate—packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber.

Taking care of yourself and taking care of the Earth go hand in hand.
Let’s keep it clean, keep it green, and keep moving forward—together. 💚

04/22/2026

Public health is people. People who show up, solve problems, care about you and your family and make a difference every day in Monroe County. We’ve rolled out some of our best Olan Mills throwbacks to show off our team. We’re grateful to serve our community and are here to help you.

04/20/2026

Your Health Matters! 🌸
Protect your family by taking care of YOU. Routine annual mammograms are lifesaving, and the Iowa Care for Yourself program is here to help remove the financial barriers.
✅ FREE Mammograms
✅ No Insurance? High Deductible? We can help!
✅ Easy 5-minute phone application
✅ NO proof of income required
✅ Confidential & Supportive
Serving Lucas, Mahaska, Marion, and Monroe counties.
📞 Call Marion County Public Health today: (641) 828-2238
Let’s ensure you get the care you deserve. 💖