Frequently Asked Questions
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Food poisoning happens after eating or drinking contaminated foods or beverages. Contamination occurs at any time throughout the food preparation process, including growing, distribution processes, storage, cooking, and service. Often, foodborne illness is the result of cross-contamination, poor hygiene, or improper heating and cooling of prepared foods.
If you suspect food poisoning after consuming an item from a restaurant, grocery store, convenience store, market, or public gathering, call IDPH’s IowaSic hotline at 1-844-469-2742.
How can I obtain my immunization record?
Vaccine records can be obtained by contacting our office at 319-753-8290.
Records would be limited to immunizations given in Iowa. Only the individual, who received the vaccine or parent/legal guardian can request immunization records. For any records, we require a release of information to be signed.
How do I call if I think I have questions about a poison?
- Use the webPOISONCONTROL® online tool to get specific recommendations based on age, substance, and amount, OR
- Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for expert guidance.
How do I contact the suicide prevention hotline?
People can call 988 to access counselors and response teams at the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
How long should I isolate if I have COVID?
Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prention, (CDC) for isolation and mitigation strategies:
Isolation and Precautions for People with COVID-19 | CDC
I am going to be traveling out of the country, what vaccines do I need?
The Centers for Disease Control website is an excellent resource. Please visit the CDC website.
Travel Medicine Clinic at the University of Iowa
200 Hawkins Dr.
Iowa City, IA 52242
319-356-8133
I just moved to Des Moines County — where can I find a medical provider?
Contact the following options:
- Community Health
1706 W. Agency Rd.
West Burlington, IA 52655
319-768-5858
- Family Medicine, Mercy-Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center
Mercy Plaza, Suite 159
1225 S. Gear Ave.
West Burlington, IA 52655
319-768-1570
I'm ready to quit! Do you have tobacco cessation resources?
Call the Iowa Quit Line at 866-822-6879.
Mental Health: My friend/family member is in crisis. Where can I go for help?
Des Moines County offers a number of services. These can be accessed by contacting the Disability Services office at 319-754-8556 or accessed directly by contacting Counseling Associates IHH.
Your Life Iowa is another service option, funded by the Iowa Department of Public Health under the Division of Behavioral Health. Your Life Iowa is a free and confidential help. Providing information and services for problems with alcohol, drugs, gambling, mental health, or suicidal thoughts. Your Life Iowa can be accessed 24/7 by:
- phone at 855-581-8111
- text 855-895-8398
- online chat on the Your Life Iowa website
- following Your Life Iowa on Facebook
When/where can I get my blood pressure checked?
Our department offers blood pressure checks during our regular office hours:
Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
522 North 3rd St.
Burlington, IA 52601
319-753-8290
Where can I find information about disability-related programs and services for Iowa residents?
Iowa COMPASS is Iowa's leading source of information on disability services and assistive technology. Iowa COMPASS is a great resource in connecting those with disability-related needs with information and resources to help problem-solve in order to meet their needs.
Where can I find more information about Opioid Overdose Prevention?
Where can I get a flu vaccine? Do I really need it? What is seasonal flu?
Influenza is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death. The single best way to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated each year.
Where do I go if I need a medical provider and do not have health insurance or I am underinsured?
Who do I call regarding bats, poor food handling techniques, or well testing?
- Water testing is done through Des Moines County Public Health Environmental Health services: 319-753-8290
- To report a food-related illness complaint: 844-IowaSic (844-469-2742)
- To report a non-illness food handling complaint contact Lee County Health Department: Phone: 319-372-5225
