Polk County Health Department

04/02/2026

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.

04/02/2026

Small steps add up. Here are 5 practical actions you can take this week to support a healthier home:

1. Check for moisture or leaks
2. Replace HVAC or furnace filters
3. Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
4. Store cleaning products safely
5. Open windows for fresh air when weather allows

These simple actions protect your health, reduce energy costs, and create lasting benefits for your household.

Healthy homes start with everyday choices.

03/31/2026

🌟 Join Our Team!

We’re hiring a Lead Abatement Coordinator to help reduce lead hazards and protect families.

⏳ Apply by April 9
🔗 https://governmentjobs.pulse.ly/tawjerwayy

Make a difference — apply now.

03/31/2026

Transgender Day of Visibility is about more than being seen—it’s about being supported.

In public health, we know that when people feel safe, respected, and able to access care, health outcomes improve. But too many transgender and nonbinary people still face barriers to healthcare, higher rates of violence, and mental health challenges.

Visibility matters.
Access matters.
Respect matters.

Find resources for transgender Iowans from One Iowa: oneiowa.org/resources/transresources/

03/27/2026

🌧️ Severe Weather Awareness Week: Flood Safety in Iowa

Flooding is one of Iowa’s most common hazards. Before storms roll in, take a moment to review the basics:

• Turn Around, Don’t Drown - Never drive through flooded roads.
• Stay Alert - Keep weather alerts on and watch for Flash Flood Warnings.
• Avoid Floodwater - It can hide debris, contaminants, and strong currents.
• Know Your Risk - Low lying and rural areas can flood quickly.
• Prep Your Home - Clear gutters and move valuables to higher levels.

Stay aware, stay prepared, and stay safe when heavy rain hits.

03/26/2026

A new report from the Iowa Environmental Council and The Harkin Institute takes a closer look at environmental factors that may be contributing to Iowa’s rising cancer rates.

While cancer is complex and influenced by many factors, this report explores how exposures in our environment—like radon, PFAS, and pesticides—may play a role alongside well-known risks.

👉 The takeaway:
There’s more to learn, and more we can do to reduce risk and protect health across our communities. Read the full report: https://www.iaenvironment.org/our-work/cancer-and-environmental-risk-factors-in-iowa/

03/26/2026

Iowa storms move fast. Bring in loose outdoor items, stay tuned to alerts, and head indoors when strong winds or hail start. A few quick steps help keep everyone safe.

03/25/2026

It’s Severe Weather Awareness Week in Iowa, and today’s a perfect day to get storm‑ready.

✅ Build a 3‑day emergency kit
✅ Make a family plan (communication, shelter, evacuation, medical needs)
✅ Stay informed with a NOAA Weather Radio + Alert Iowa

A little prep now makes a big difference later.

03/25/2026

📢 STATEWIDE SIREN TEST TODAY AT 10:00 AM

Iowa will be conducting the annual statewide tornado siren test this morning at 10:00 AM. When the sirens sound, everyone who signed up for Alert Iowa will also receive a test notification on their phone.

If you haven’t signed up yet, now is the perfect time. Alert Iowa keeps you informed during severe weather, emergencies, and community alerts — and it’s completely free. https://www.polkcountyiowa.gov/emergency-management/be-prepared/polk-county-alert-iowa/

👉 Sign up today and stay informed when it matters most.
Be ready. Be aware. Stay safe, Iowa.

📢 STATEWIDE SIREN TEST TODAY AT 10:00 AM

Iowa will be conducting the annual statewide tornado siren test this morning at 10:00 AM. When the sirens sound, everyone who signed up for Alert Iowa will also receive a test notification on their phone.

If you haven’t signed up yet, now is the perfect time. Alert Iowa keeps you informed during severe weather, emergencies, and community alerts — and it’s completely free. Link https://www.polkcountyiowa.gov/emergency-management/be-prepared/polk-county-alert-iowa/

👉 Sign up today and stay informed when it matters most.
Be ready. Be aware. Stay safe, Iowa.

03/24/2026

🌪️ Tornado Watch vs. Tornado Warning — Know the Difference

A Tornado Watch means conditions are right for tornadoes. Stay alert and be ready to act.

A Tornado Warning means a tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar. Take shelter immediately.

Knowing the difference saves lives

03/24/2026

TB isn’t a disease of the past—it’s here, and it affects real people in our community.

The good news? It’s preventable. It’s treatable. And with the right care, it’s curable.

Public health works every day to identify cases, support treatment, and stop the spread—often before most people even know it’s happening.

That’s the power of prevention.

03/23/2026

Storms can develop quickly and occur with little or no warning. Heavy winds and lightning caused by storms can cause extended power outages, uprooted trees, landslides, and downed or broken utility lines. Additionally, heavy rains can cause flash floods.