HARRISON COUNTY – The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services announced the first case of West Nile virus infection reported in 2024 in an older adult, aged 61-80 years, from Harrison County. The case was confirmed through a test at the State Hygienic Lab. People who experience mild signs and symptoms of infection generally recover on their own. But illness that includes a severe headache, disorientation, or sudden weakness require immediate medical attention. In 2023, 17 Iowans were diagnosed with West Nile virus, with one death.

DES MOINES – Governor Kim Reynolds unveiled a new website called Iowa Child Care Connect to help Iowans more easily find child care availability near their homes, where they attend school or near parents and caretakers work places. Iowa HHS, in partnership with Iowa State University and Resultant, a data and technology consulting firm, developed the Iowa Child Care Connect website platform with a focus on child care availability mapping for Iowans. This project is one of the recommendations brought by the Governor’s Child Care Task Force. Iowa Child Care Connect can also serve as a tool in emergency situations.