Tag: Health

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Health lab director says ‘very unusual’ Sturgis rally overdose reports remain a mystery

Gary Dickson

State health officials are investigating a mysterious series of suspected overdose cases linked to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, including two fatalities. At least 12 cases with unusual symptoms, such as seizures and shallow breathing, were reported. Despite extensive toxicology tests, no common substance was identified. Health authorities urge vigilance for future events. Continue reading Health lab director says ‘very unusual’ Sturgis rally overdose reports remain a mystery

Agriculture, Environment, Government, Health, PoliticsLeave a comment

Health and farmworker advocates urge ban of herbicide linked to Parkinson’s

Gary Dickson

Public health advocates are calling for a federal ban on paraquat dichloride, a toxic herbicide linked to Parkinson’s disease and other severe health issues. The EPA will decide in January 2025 whether to renew the herbicide’s license. Farmworkers emphasize the need for safer agricultural practices to protect public health. Continue reading Health and farmworker advocates urge ban of herbicide linked to Parkinson’s

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‘Scared to Death’: Nurses and residents confront rampant violence in dementia care facilities

Gary Dickson

Violent altercations between residents in long-term care facilities are alarmingly common. Across the country, residents in nursing homes or assisted living centers have been killed by other residents who weaponized a bedrail, shoved pillow stuffing into a person’s mouth, or removed an oxygen mask. Clashes can be spontaneous and too unpredictable to prevent. But the chance of an altercation increases when memory care homes admit and retain residents they can’t manage, according to a KFF Health News examination of inspection and court records and interviews with researchers. Continue reading ‘Scared to Death’: Nurses and residents confront rampant violence in dementia care facilities

Government, Iowa, PoliticsLeave a comment

As fentanyl ravages Iowa, activists push for the legalization of fentanyl test strips

Gary Dickson

A majority of the 300 overdose deaths in Iowa in 2022 involved fentanyl. Activists are pushing for the legalization of fentanyl test strips to prevent accidental overdoses. Despite concerns, supporters believe these strips can save lives and provide valuable information about drug supply. Legalization faces resistance due to stigma and fear of enabling drug use. Continue reading As fentanyl ravages Iowa, activists push for the legalization of fentanyl test strips

Government, HealthLeave a comment

Magic mushroom alternatives recalled across US, one person sickened in SD

Gary Dickson

Diamond Shruumz products have been recalled due to illnesses and one potential death. The recall affects psychedelic candies, leading to 48 reported illnesses and one death. The products, including chocolate bars and gummies, are under investigation by the FDA and CDC. The recall has prompted warnings about potential availability and related legal issues. Continue reading Magic mushroom alternatives recalled across US, one person sickened in SD

Government, Health2 Comments

Restaurant inspection update: Meatloaf loafing above the pork, slimy lettuce, rodent feces – and other food safety violations

Gary Dickson

State and city food inspectors in Iowa and South Dakota have found various food safety violations in local restaurants and stores in recent weeks. Violations include insufficient refrigeration, improper food cooling, handling food with bare hands, and dirty facilities. The public is reminded that these reports are only a snapshot in time and that violations are often corrected on the spot. For more details, visit the respective state departments’ websites. Continue reading Restaurant inspection update: Meatloaf loafing above the pork, slimy lettuce, rodent feces – and other food safety violations

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Amid mental health crisis, new compact allows social workers to practice across state lines

Gary Dickson

Sex therapist and social worker Stefani Goerlich struggles when clients move away from Michigan due to restrictions on providing telehealth services across state lines. In response to America’s mental health crisis, an increasing number of states are empowering social workers to practice across state lines. The Social Work Licensure Compact is facilitating this, benefiting practitioners and patients alike. Continue reading Amid mental health crisis, new compact allows social workers to practice across state lines

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Board: Pharmacy error led to overdose, possible death

Gary Dickson

Several Iowa pharmacies, including Hamilton Drive Hy-Vee Pharmacy, have been fined and ordered to undergo training for dispensing incorrect medications. These errors have led to serious consequences for patients, such as potential overdoses and seizures. The Iowa Board of Pharmacy has taken disciplinary actions against the pharmacies involved, imposing civil penalties and ordering educational training on medication errors and patient safety. Continue reading Board: Pharmacy error led to overdose, possible death

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Iowa care facilities cited for resident abuse, lack of safe environment

Gary Dickson

Summary:
Multiple Iowa nursing homes are facing fines for resident abuse and safety violations. The Happy Siesta Health Care Center in Remsen was fined for a serious safety violation, while other facilities were cited for neglect and abuse. The state is taking enforcement action to ensure the safety and well-being of nursing home residents. Continue reading Iowa care facilities cited for resident abuse, lack of safe environment

Government, Healthcare, South DakotaLeave a comment

DOH unveils WOW Mobile Clinics to improve healthcare access to underserved communities in South Dakota

Gary Dickson

The South Dakota Department of Health is launching Wellness on Wheels (WOW) mobile clinics to provide essential healthcare services to underserved communities. The initiative aims to address healthcare barriers, improve health outcomes, and promote wellness. The mobile clinics will offer a range of services including WIC, immunizations, oral health, and STD testing, among others. Continue reading DOH unveils WOW Mobile Clinics to improve healthcare access to underserved communities in South Dakota