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1. I plan to travel overseas. Should I be concerned about any diseases and do I need any vaccinations?

You can visit the Center for Disease Control’s web site at www.cdc.gov/travel or call our office at (319) 892-6093.

2. Where can I get tested for sexually transmitted diseases?

You may contact one of our clinic nurses at 319-892-6093 to schedule an appointment and obtain any additional details in our clinic.

3. Where can I get an HIV test?

You can get a HIV test for free at Linn County Public Health if you have risk factors. If you don't qualify, you can get a test for a fee. Call (319) 892-6093 for more information.

4. Where can I get a tetanus shot?

Linn County Public Health does give tetanus shots.

5. Where can I get a physical for school, sports, camp, etc?

Linn County Public Health does routine physical exams for children age 4 or older for a fee regardless of insurance coverage. Please call (319) 892-6093 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

6. How can I get a copy of my immunization records?

Please call us at (319) 892-6093. We can provide a copy of any immunizations that were given by Linn County Public Health and any others that are in the state-wide registry.

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1. What can I do to protect myself from mosquitoes and the West Nile Virus?

West Nile Virus (wnv) and Mosquito control
WNV is usually spread through the bites from infected mosquitoes.

Mosquitoes pick up the virus from birds that are infected with WNV.

Symptoms of WNV are often so mild, many people who contract WNV never know it and recover fully from it.

Severe WNV infections may include symptoms such as a high fever, headaches, muscle aches, weakness, seizures, paralysis and/or result in death. These infections are rare.

Those at the greatest risk for WNV include people age 50 and older and immuno-compromised individuals.

Mosquito breeding areas may include bird-baths, flower pots, used tires, floodwater areas, clogged storm drains, gutters, marshes, non-chlorinated backyard pools and other areas susceptible to water collection.

When symptoms occur, it is usually within 3 to 15 days after the mosquito bite.

You can help control the mosquito population and prevent WNV by following these simple steps:

Remove old tires, and buckets from your yard
Change the water in birdbaths and pet dishes every 3 days
Avoid over-watering flower pots and gardens
Clean gutters regularly
Keep pools chlorinated and cover them when possible
Repair holes that cause puddles in driveways and yards
Apply 30 % DEET repellent when outdoors – Use no more than 10% DEET on children
Wear baggy or loose-fitting clothing when outdoors
Repair holes in door and window screens
Avoid outdoor activities between dusk and dawn
Replace outdoor lights with yellow “bug” lights and avoid using bug zappers--they attract more mosquitoes than they kill

2. Where do I get information on OSHA-type worker safety rules?

Call Iowa Workforce Development at (319) 365-9474

3. When is the Board of Health Reception and who can attend?

Board of Health reception is typically the same week as Public Health week.

Communities who have impacted public health are invited.

If you would like to attend and have not received your invitation 

contact Kim Honn

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1. Am I considered a close contact if I was wearing a mask?

Yes, you are still considered a close contact even if you were wearing a mask while you were around someone with COVID-19. Masks are meant to protect other people in case you are infected, and not to protect you from becoming infected.

2. Who is considered a close contact to someone with COVID-19?

For COVID-19, a close contact is anyone who was within 6 feet of an infected person for a total of 15 minutes or more. An infected person can spread COVID-19 starting 48 hours (or 2 days) before the person has any symptoms or tests positive for COVID-19.

3. If I am a close contact, should I be tested for COVID-19?

If you have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19 you should follow CDC's quarantine guidance and get tested on Day 5, if possible.

4. I was recently around someone who has COVID-19, but I feel fine. Why should I stay home?

People with COVID-19 can still spread the virus even if they don’t have any symptoms. If you were around someone who had COVID-19, it is critical that you follow CDC's quarantine guidance and get tested on Day 5, if possible.

5. What if I have been around someone who was identified as a close contact?

If you have been around someone who was identified as a close contact to a person with COVID-19, closely monitor yourself for any symptoms of COVID-19. You do not need to self-quarantine unless you develop symptoms or if the person identified as a close contact develops COVID-19.

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1. Will the vaccine give me COVID-19 or make me sick?

No, none of the approved COVID-19 vaccines contain the live virus and cannot give you COVID-19. 

COVID-19 vaccines teach our immune systems how to recognize and fight the virus that causes COVID-19. Sometimes this process can cause symptoms, such as fever. However, building immunity from a vaccine is a much safer option and these symptoms are normal signs that the body is building protection against the virus that causes COVID-19. Learn more about how COVID-19 vaccines work.

2. How can I get notified about COVID-19 vaccine status updates?

Subscribe to receive local COVID-19 Status Updates by using our NotifyMe tool and selecting "COVID-19 Status Update" under the News Flash category. View a step by step Instructional Video on how to subscribe. 

3. If I already had COVID-19 should I still get the vaccine?

Yes. The protection someone gets from having an infection, called natural immunity, varies depending on the disease and from person to person. Since this virus is new, it is unknown how long natural immunity will last. As experts continue to study both the virus and the vaccines, we will continue to learn more. However, building immunity from a vaccine is a much safer option than to risk the complications from becoming ill from COVID-19. Learn more.

4. I’m a healthy adult, why should I get a vaccine?

There are many benefits of getting a COVID-19 vaccine when offered to you. Learn more.

5. I went all year without getting COVID-19, why should I get a vaccine now?

There are many benefits of getting a COVID-19 vaccine when offered to you. Learn more.

6. If I can build immunity to COVID-19 naturally, why should I get a vaccine?

There are many benefits of getting a COVID-19 vaccine when offered to you. Learn more.

7. Is the vaccine effective against new COVID-19 variants?

Data show that COVID-19 boosters help broaden and strengthen protection against Omicron and other SARS-CoV-2 variants. Learn when to receive a booster. 

Research is ongoing to fully understand these variants and how they affect vaccines. Learn more.

8. What are mRNA vaccines and how do they work?

The first 2 COVID-19 vaccines approved for use in the U.S. were messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccines. Learn more about mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, here.

9. Can I still test positive for COVID-19 after getting the vaccine?

No. However, it typically takes a few weeks to build immunity after receiving a vaccine. That means it is possible a person could be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 just before or just after vaccination and still get sick. In this case, the person would test positive for COVID-19 shortly after getting the vaccine. 

10. Does immunity after getting COVID-19 last longer than protection from COVID-19 vaccines?

The protection someone gets from having an infection, called natural immunity, varies depending on the disease and from person to person. Since this virus is new, it is unknown how long natural immunity will last. As experts continue to study both the virus and the vaccines, we will continue to learn more. However, building immunity from a vaccine is a much safer option than to risk the complications from becoming ill from COVID-19.

11. How long will immunity from the COVID-19 vaccine last?

As is the length of time someone who was ill with COVID-19 remains immune, how long COVID-19 vaccine gives someone immunity is also not yet known. As experts continue to study the vaccine, we will continue to learn more. However, building immunity from a vaccine is a much safer option. 

12. Will the COVID-19 vaccine stop the pandemic?

Stopping a pandemic requires using all the tools we have available. Wearing masks and social distancing help reduce your chance of being exposed to the virus or spreading it to others, but these measures are not enough. Vaccines will work with your immune system so it will be ready to fight the virus if you are exposed. Vaccination will help you from getting COVID-19, and is a safer way to build protection than becoming sick with COVID-19. However, the combination of getting vaccinated and following recommendations to protect yourself and others will offer the best protection from COVID-19.

13. What percentage of the population needs to be vaccinated to have herd immunity to COVID-19?

At this time, experts do not know what percentage of people need to be vaccinated to reach herd immunity to COVID-19. “Herd immunity” is when enough people have protection from either a previous infection, or have had a vaccination for that infection, to prevent the spread of an illness among the community. As a result, everyone within the community is protected even if some people don’t have any protection themselves. The percentage of people who need to have protection in order to achieve herd immunity varies by disease.

14. When can children get the COVID-19 vaccine?

COVID-19 vaccines are not currently approved for babies and young children. The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is not approved for people under the age of 5. The Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are not approved for people under the age of 18. Learn more.  

15. Why should I get a vaccine if my children can’t get a vaccine yet? I’m still exposed to them.

There are many benefits of getting a COVID-19 vaccine. Learn more. 

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1. When you get the vaccine, will the government also inject a tracking device?

No. There is no vaccine microchip, and the vaccine will not track people or gather personal information into a database. Nor does the vaccine have the ability to control your mind.

This myth started after comments made by Bill Gates from The Gates Foundation about a digital certificate of vaccine records. The technology he was referencing is not a microchip, has not been implemented in any manner and is not tied to the development, testing or distribution of COVID-19 vaccines. Learn more.

2. Is the government collecting my DNA?

No. Like most vaccinations, the vaccine is injected into your muscle. This is a “one way ride” and nothing is pulled back into the syringe. Needles used to administer vaccine are properly disposed of into a medical grade sharps container.

A COVID-19 vaccine will also not alter your DNA. Learn more.  

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1. How do we know the COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective?

Learn more from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, here.

2. What are the side effects of the COVID-19 vaccines?

View information about side effects from the CDC, here. 

3. How many people participated in the clinical trials for the vaccine?

Several different vaccines have been developed for COVID-19. A few of them have made it through clinical trials and have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Some are still in clinical trials. Of the vaccines approved for use in the U.S., between 30,000 to 45,000 participants enrolled to participate in each study. View information about individual clinical trials, here.

4. I’ve had an allergic reaction to the flu shot, is it safe to get a COVID-19 vaccine?

Information about COVID-19 vaccines for people with allergies can be found, here.

5. What are mRNA vaccines and how do they work?

The first 2 COVID-19 vaccines approved for use in the U.S. were messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccines. Learn more about mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, here.

6. Can I get other vaccines at the same time I get a COVID-19 vaccine?

Yes. COVID-19 vaccines and other vaccines may now be administered without regard to timing . Learn more.

7. When can children get the COVID-19 vaccine?

CDC recommends everyone 5 years and older should get a COVID-19 vaccination to help protect against COVID-19. Learn more.

8. I am pregnant or nursing, can I get the vaccine?

Yes. Learn more.

9. Does the vaccine cause reproductive issues?

No. Learn more.

10. Will the vaccine give me COVID-19 or make me sick?

No, none of the approved COVID-19 vaccines contain the live virus and cannot give you COVID-19. 

COVID-19 vaccines teach our immune systems how to recognize and fight the virus that causes COVID-19. Sometimes this process can cause symptoms, such as fever. However, building immunity from a vaccine is a much safer option and these symptoms are normal signs that the body is building protection against the virus that causes COVID-19. Learn more about how COVID-19 vaccines work.

11. Can I still test positive for COVID-19 after getting the vaccine?

No. However, it typically takes a few weeks to build immunity after receiving a vaccine. That means it is possible a person could be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 just before or just after vaccination and still get sick. In this case, the person would test positive for COVID-19 shortly after getting the vaccine.

12. Does immunity after getting COVID-19 last longer than protection from COVID-19 vaccines?

The protection someone gets from having an infection, called natural immunity, varies depending on the disease and from person to person. Since this virus is new, it is unknown how long natural immunity will last. As experts continue to study both the virus and the vaccines, we will continue to learn more. However, building immunity from a vaccine is a much safer option than to risk the complications from becoming ill from COVID-19.

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1. What is the Linn County Special Needs Registry?

The Special Needs Registry is maintained by the Linn County Emergency Management Agency. Linn County Residents who have a disability or special need and would require help to evacuate in an emergency, can enroll on the Linn County Special Needs Registry. You may also enroll those you care about who could benefit from the registry if they are Linn County Residents.

What Kind of Help Would You Possibly Need?

§ Visually Impaired: I may need to be led to safety.
§ Hearing Impaired: I may need TDD or other special emergency warning notification.
§ Mobility Impaired: I may need special transportation to evacuate, like an ambulance or handicapped accessible bus.
§ Mental Health Conditions: I may need help with supportive services because I may have a significant issue coping during an emergency due to my mental health concerns.
§ Intellectual Disabilities: I may need a family member or someone assigned to me in a shelter.
§ Medical Conditions: I need electricity for medical equipment.

3 Ways to Register

1. Call United Way 2-1-1 by dialing 2-1-1 or 1-866-469-2211
2. Complete and return a Special Needs Registry Card, which was delivered with your Yellow Book Telephone Directory
3. Go to www.linncounty-ema.org and complete the Special Needs Card online.

2. Can I volunteer to help prepare Linn County against emergencies posed by natural and man-made disasters?

You can become involved in many levels of preparedness by contacting Public Health at (319) 892-6000 or the Linn County Emergency Management Agency at (319) 363-2671.

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1. I am selling my home that has a septic system and a well. A lending company says I need to have them checked. What do I do?

Contact our office at (319) 892-6000 to request a septic and well review. Our staff will conduct tests on the systems and provide a report that states the reliability and safety of the systems. A well water analysis can also be conducted.

2. My business needs to install equipment that requires venting. Do I need a permit for my air exhaust?

Public Health, fire or building and zoning departments may require permits. Any process creating or venting an air contaminate should be considered for a permit from Public Health. Contaminates include both particles and gases. There are a number of exemptions such as mobile sources, residential heating, lab vents, and similar small sources that aren’t associated with any production or manufacturing. Please refer to our code section 10.5 “Locally Required Permits”. If you are unsure as to the need for an air permit, the best answer is to contact our office by telephone at (319) 892-6000. Someone in the Air Quality section will be able to assess your need regarding the permit requirements

3. How would my child become lead poisoned?

The number one cause of children becoming lead poisoned is deteriorating lead-based paint found in older homes. Lead dust is also a concern when you have lead-based paint on surfaces that are chewable or that undergo friction or impact. The only way to know whether your child is lead poisoned is through a blood lead test.

4. Where can I get the 8-hour Lead Safe Renovation, Remodeling & Painting training?

Classes are conducted at the Linn County Public Health building. Click here to see a list of scheduled classes.

5. What is radon?

Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas present in the soil. Radon can lead to lung cancer when it gets into buildings where we breathe the radon and it's radioactive decay products.

Radon is undetectable except through specific testing. Every home in Iowa should be tested for radon. Most people start the testing process by using a do-it-yourself radon test kit. Testing for real estate transactions is a little different, call for information 1-319-892-6000 or www.lchh.org

6. Where can radon test kits be purchased?

Many local health departments as well as department stores offer radon test kits. Call 1-319-892-6000 or visit www.lchh.org for information on purchasing a kit or with any other questions about radon.

7. Can new homes be built to lessen the entry of radon into the home?

Yes! New homes can include a passive radon system that will prevent some radon from entering the home and provide infrastructure for easily and cheaply reducing radon levels further when needed. For information on new construction techniques call 1-319-892-6000 or www.lchh.org.

8. Can my work, home or school be inspected for indoor air quality (IAQ) concerns?

Inspections for IAQ concerns, including mold, can be scheduled by calling (319) 892-6000.

9. Why can I not burn my leaves and garden material when I live in Cedar Rapids, Hiawatha or Marion?

The State of Iowa and Linn County have implemented restrictions on burning as set out in the Air Quality State Implementation Plan.

10. Where can I get my child tested for lead poisoning

You may call 319-892-6000 and ask for the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program to schedule an appointment for your child. This testing is free to Linn County children age 12 months to 6 years.

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1. What is My Care Community?

My Care Community is a local group of community providers who connect you to programs that keep you healthy and safe. We coordinate care for you and your family, so it’s easy to make appointments, get referrals and find the care you’re looking for.

2. How does My Care Community Work?

When you visit a My Care Community partner organization, you can choose to join My Care Community. Just give us the OK to work with our partner organizations to figure out if you are eligible for certain programs and services. Then, we will connect you with the right resources to ensure you can achieve your best quality of life.

3. How does My Care Community help me and my family?

Sometimes you need more care than one organization can provide. That’s where My Care Community comes in. Our friendly and welcoming care coordinators listen to your story and help you determine what care is needed. They then connect you to any additional programs and services you may qualify for.

• Learn what programs and services you’re eligible for without having to call multiple offices or fill out extra paperwork.
• No need to remember old names and dates, or which services you’ve already used.
• Safe and confidential.
• Care coordination and referrals for your entire family.

4. How does the community benefit from My Care Community?

My Care Community partner organizations communicate, share resources, and coordinate referrals to improve the health and well-being of those in our own communities. By providing this type of care coordination, My Care Community works to provide better care throughout our entire community to ensure everyone has access to the resources for living their safest and healthiest lives.

5. What kinds of services can I get through My Care Community?

Our partners offer a variety of different health care and social services, from regular doctor’s appointments and check-ups, to mental health screenings, child care assistance, addiction treatment and more.

See our list of partners at mycarelinnco.org for more information.

6. What are the benefits of My Care Community?

My Care Community strives to create a safe and healthy community for all. By joining My Care Community, as an individual or partner organization, the following benefits can be gained:

• Easy referrals to connect individuals to local services in the community
• Share communication, assessment results, goals, and more with other community partners
• Track the outcome of referrals and services delivered to clients
• Improve the health and well-being of individuals and families through an increased partnership and collaboration with other My Care Community partners
• Measure the impact of an organization and the services offered to the community

7. Who can use My Care Community?

My Care Community is open to all residents located within the service area of our partners.

8. How do I sign up for My Care Community?

It’s easy to join My Care Community. The next time you visit one of our partner organizations, just ask. You’ll sign a consent form allowing us to help and refer you to our partners, and we’ll take care of the rest! If you ever decide to leave My Care Community, you can opt out at any time, for any reason. 

9. Does it cost anything to use My Care Community?

No. My Care Community is a free service open to all local residents.

10. Will My Care Community keep my information safe?

Yes. We respect your privacy and take every step to keep your information safe. Only authorized partners can see your information and will only do so for the purposes of coordinating care. Prior to being connected with resources, all individuals must sign a consent form, which enables My Care Community to coordinate care on your behalf.

We use the most up-to-date technology to keep the data in our network safe. All of our systems comply with state and federal laws that protect your information, including HIPAA.

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1. How do I know if I am allowed to apply for an Open Burn Permit?

Enter the address where the burn will occur into the Linn County online Open Burn Permit Application Tool (https://lcgis.linncounty.org/apps/health/openburning/).  The Tool will evaluate the address and determine whether the property is outside of the established "no burn" areas.  If burning is allowed, you then have the option of applying for an Open Burn Permit for that property.  Alternatively, you may call Linn County Public Health at (319) 892-6000 and ask for assistance. 

2. How long do Open Burn Permits last?

Typically, Open Burn Permits are valid for 12 months following the issuance date.  Permits granted for training fires or prairie burns may only be valid for 30 days.  Please check the expiration date on your issued Open Burn Permit to verify the expiration date. 

3. How much do Open Burn Permits cost?

All Open Burning Permits cost $25.  Payments can be made in-person or over the phone via credit card (fees apply).  Payment is expected prior to issuance of the permit. 

4. I've lost my Open Burn Permit. How can I recover it?

The Open Burning Permit Application Tool can be used to recover your issued, valid Open Burn Permit.  The following guidance is provided: /DocumentCenter/View/16701

5. What is the difference between Landscape Waste and Tree Trimmings?

When applying for an Open Burn Permit, you will be expected to disclose what materials will be burned.  There is some overlap in the categories offered in the application process and we understand that these categories may cause confusion.  If you have any questions regarding the appropriate category to select when applying for an open Burn Permit, please contact Linn County Public Health. 

The "Landscape Wastes" category includes grass, leaves, weeds, trees, tree limbs, and other natural growth and agricultural wastes.  In most circumstances, this specifically applies to trees and tree limbs originating on the property where the burn will take place and is appropriate for most residents of Linn County.

The "Tree and Tree Trimmings" category is specifically for the burning of trees and tree trimmings not originating on the premises for a burning site operated by a local government entity.  This category is not appropriate for most residents of Linn County with the goal of burning trees, leaves, and tree limbs. 

6. What materials can I legally burn with an Open Burn Permit?

Linn County Code of Ordinances Section 10-63 (https://library.municode.com/ia/linn_county/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTICOOR_CH10EN_ARTIIIAIQU_S10-63OPBU) itemizes the materials that may be burned legally and the limitations that surround how those materials may be burned. Most Open Burn Permits are issued for "Landscape Wastes," which include grass, leaves, weeds, trees, tree limbs, natural growth for land clearing, and agricultural wastes. Permits are also allowed for disaster rubbish, ceremonial burning, agricultural structures, training fires, and other approved reasons. All permit holders are expected to follow the limitations itemized in their permit and in accordance with the Linn County Code of Ordinances.