Ad-Express and Daily Iowegian, Centerville, IA

People

June 24, 2008

Tetanus and Hepatitis A vaccinations not always necessary

IDPH provides

guidelines



As Iowans face flooding, questions are being raised about exposure to diseases like tetanus and hepatitis

Iowa Department of Public Health Director Tom Newton says neither of these illnesses has been found to be associated with flooding, and mass vaccinations are not necessary.

“It’s understandable that folks are anxious – however, it’s important to understand that flooding has not been shown to be a risk factor for either tetanus or hepatitis A,” said Newton.

Newton says vaccinations are only needed under certain conditions.

“If you or a family member has been cut or scraped or the skin broken while working in flood waters, you should check your immunization records. If you have not received a tetanus booster in the last five years, or if you’re unsure about your vaccinations, you should see your medical provider about a vaccination. Otherwise, if your vaccinations are up to date, you don’t need a vaccination for tetanus or hepatitis A.”

Newton says the bigger health threat during flooding is personal injury, especially from carbon monoxide poisoning from the use of gas-powered generators indoors, as well as stress and heat exhaustion.

He says as simple as it sounds, the best prevention against any disease from flood waters is regular hand washing with soap and water.

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So, the question this week is, “Will it stay or will it go?” The United States Department of Agriculture in Washington, D.C. wants to close three Farm Service Agency offices in southern Iowa, which includes the FSA office in Centerville, and consolidate the operations in order to save money. Tuesday afternoon a meeting was held at Faith United Methodist Church to allow farmers and other producers who use the Centerville FSA office to make comments about the closing to John R. Whitaker, state executive director Iowa FSA. Many questioned if the meeting Tuesday was necessary because the decision had already been made.

A. Yes, because Washington will listen.
B. No, because the decision to close the Appanoose County FSA office has already been made.
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