FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 8, 2024

CALDWELL, IDAHO – Southwest District Health (SWDH) has launched a cooling station during this week’s heatwave at their headquarters off Karcher in Caldwell. The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for the Treasure Valley and surrounding areas starting today.

The cooling center is free and open to the public. People and their crated pets are welcome to come in and get out of the heat. The cooling center will provide air conditioning, water, bathrooms, seating, hand sanitizer, free Wifi, the ability to charge cell phones, and a designated pet relief area. People who would like to access the cooling station should plan to bring their own meals and snacks. It will be open during business hours from 8am to 5pm this Monday through Friday at 13307 Miami Lane, Caldwell 83607.

SWDH Public Health Emergency Preparedness Program Manager, Ricky Bowman says, “we are offering up our facility as a cooling center to ensure that our most vulnerable populations have a safe space to prevent the effects of extreme weather conditions like this heat wave that is predicted.”

During excessively high temperatures, health risks associated with heat-related illness are significantly heightened, particularly for infants, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory issues. Residents are encouraged to check in on the well-being of any vulnerable relatives, friends, and neighbors this week.

Limited space and amenities are available at SWDH’s other locations:

Payette – 1155 Third Ave. North, Payette, ID 83661

Emmett – 1008 East Locust, Emmett, ID 83617

Weiser – 46 West Court, Weiser, ID 83672

About Southwest District Health

Southwest District Health is one of seven public health districts throughout Idaho established to protect and promote the health and wellness of those who live, work, and play in our region. We proudly serve Adams, Canyon, Gem, Owyhee, Payette and Washington Counties. We work in partnership with our community to identify health needs, design solutions, and implement services that encourage behaviors contributing to healthier, longer lives. Learn more at swdh.org.

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Media Contacts:

Monique Evancic, Public Information Officer 
Southwest District Health
Monique.Evancic@phd3.idaho.gov
208-800-1262

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 9, 2024

(Marsing, ID) – The National Fitness Campaign (NFC) awarded $30,000 to Marsing as part of the 2023 Healthy Cities campaign which kicked off the Owyhee County Fitness Court project. The campaign is designed to activate public spaces by connecting trails, well-placed pedestrian infrastructure and community meeting points with the world’s best outdoor gym.

The Fitness Court® is a state-of-the-art, digitally connected platform for all ages and abilities to develop healthy habits, maintain long-term wellness, and fight the obesity epidemic. The award-winning Fitness Court® makes world-class fitness free and accessible for communities. The Fitness Court® will be built at the HUB, a highly visible and active area, and is scheduled to open later this year.

Marsing School District Superintendent, Norm Stewart says, “This is an exciting project for Marsing because it promotes fitness and well-being both to our kids at the HUB and for the public at large. This is intended to become a community gathering space where public fitness classes can happen and everyone can use and benefit from it.”

To date, over $114,000 has been raised:

• The City of Marsing and Owyhee County have each committed $10,000 in funding with their local matches.
• The Idaho Department of Commerce is supporting the project with a $50,000 grant as part of the state’s Rural Initiative to provide assistance to rural communities for the planning and implementation of economic development projects that facilitate economic growth through job creation, job retention, and economic diversification.
• The project has also received donations from local companies: AMVAC and US Ecology.
• Additional grants were awarded from Southwest District Health and the Southwest Idaho Legacy Organization.
• The Marsing School District board made an in-kind contribution by donating the piece of property behind the HUB where the fitness court will be installed.

The Owyhee Health Coalition, City of Marsing, and the Marsing School District are now seeking support from local sponsors and donors who want to get involved with this unique program. Up to $85,000 is still needed to complete this project which includes an estimated $20,000 for labor and materials to pour the concrete pad and up to $25,000 for the professional installation of the fitness court. Local sponsors and donors will be recognized on the Fitness Court® structure itself, through regional and statewide promotions, on the Fitness Court® mobile app, and at the launch event. To inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Jolyn Thompson at jthompson@marsingcity.com or (208) 896-4122.

To become a Fitness Court® Ambassador, get a sneak peek at official classes and challenge events, or to learn more about the 2024 Healthy Cities campaign, Owyhee County residents can visit the NFC website to learn more: nationalfitnesscampaign.com

About Southwest District Health

Southwest District Health is one of seven public health districts throughout Idaho established to protect and promote the health and wellness of those who live, work, and play in our region. We proudly serve Adams, Canyon, Gem, Owyhee, Payette and Washington Counties. We work in partnership with our community to identify health needs, design solutions, and implement services that encourage behaviors contributing to healthier, longer lives. Learn more at swdh.org.

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Media Contacts:

Monique Evancic, Public Information Officer 
Southwest District Health
Monique.Evancic@phd3.idaho.gov
208-800-1262

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 3, 2024

(Caldwell, ID) — As the opioid crisis continues to grip communities across the state, Southwest District Health is hosting a community event aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl. The town hall meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, May 7^th, 2024 at Southwest District’s Health Caldwell headquarters, will feature a keynote address by Sheriff Kieran Donahue of Canyon County, along with a distinguished panel of speakers representing various sectors of the community.

Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, has emerged as a major public health concern, contributing to a significant portion of overdose deaths nationwide. In response to this alarming trend, Southwest District Health is convening community leaders, healthcare professionals, law enforcement agencies, and concerned citizens to come together and address this pressing issue.

Joining Sheriff Donahue on the panel will be knowledgeable representatives from:

• S. Attorney‘s Office
• Nampa EMS
• Canyon County Coroner’s Office
• Trivium Life Services

Each speaker brings a unique perspective and expertise to the discussion, reflecting on the collaborative approach needed to address the fentanyl crisis effectively.

The town hall meeting will provide attendees with an opportunity to:

• Learn about the dangers of fentanyl and its devastating impact on individuals, families, and communities.
• Gain insights into the latest trends in fentanyl trafficking and distribution.
• Explore collaborative approaches to addressing the opioid crisis, including law enforcement efforts, public health initiatives, and community-based interventions.
• Participate in a Q&A session with local leaders and experts on potential solutions and resources available for prevention, treatment, and recovery.

   

Southwest District Health encourages all members of the media and the community to attend this important event and join the conversation on fentanyl awareness. Together, we can work toward building a safer and healthier future for everyone.

For more information and to RSVP for the free town hall meeting please visit:

www.eventbrite.com/e/fentanyl-awareness-community-event-tickets-883482639357?aff=oddtdtcreator&utm-source=cp&utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing

The event will also be livestreamed on the Southwest District Health YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@SouthwestDistrictHealth/streams

About Southwest District Health

Southwest District Health is one of seven public health districts throughout Idaho established to protect and promote the health and wellness of those who live, work, and play in our region. We proudly serve Adams, Canyon, Gem, Owyhee, Payette and Washington Counties. We work in partnership with our community to identify health needs, design solutions, and implement services that encourage behaviors contributing to healthier, longer lives. Learn more at swdh.org.

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Media Contacts:

Monique Evancic, Public Information Officer 
Southwest District Health
Monique.Evancic@phd3.idaho.gov
208-800-1262

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 8, 2024

The number of people reported with pertussis in southwest Idaho during the first two months of this year has recently spiked. Cases include a newborn hospitalized for the infection, as well as cases from spread in a school, several households, and community settings.

Public health officials are urging pregnant women and those who come in contact with young children, including their families, to get vaccinated against pertussis (also known as whooping cough).

Pertussis can cause serious illness in people of all ages but is most dangerous for babies. About one in eight infants with pertussis get pneumonia. About one in 100 infected infants will have convulsions. In rare cases, pertussis can be deadly, especially in infants less than 1 year of age. Many infants are infected by older siblings, parents, or other caregivers who might not know they have pertussis because early symptoms are similar to a cold and some symptoms are like allergic bronchitis.

When diagnosed by a health provider, pertussis can be treated with prescribed antibiotics. Treatment works best when started early, before any coughing fits start. Treatment started later is ineffective and a cough may last longer.

People with young children in their homes or in their care should also consider vaccination to protect themselves and reduce the risk of spread.

Pertussis vaccines (DTaP for infants and children, Tdap for adolescents and adults) are available in many doctors’ offices, local public health district offices, and pharmacies.

Babies should receive their first dose of DTaP during their doctor visit at 2 months of age, with additional doses at the 4, 6, and 15 to 18 month visits. The fifth and final DTaP dose is given at 4 to 6 years of age, just before children enter school. Adolescents’ immune systems should be boosted with a dose of Tdap during their doctor visit at 11 to 12 years of age, at the same time they are getting their vaccines against meningitis and human papilloma virus. Anyone over the age of 12 who hasn’t had a Tdap vaccine, should get one now.

If you live with someone who has pertussis or if you have been exposed to pertussis and are at increased risk of serious disease (have asthma, are less than 1 year of age or more than 65 years of age) or will have contact with someone who is at increased risk of serious disease, talk to your doctor about whether you need preventive antibiotics. This is especially important if you have contact with a baby or a pregnant individual.

For more information about pertussis, visit https://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/index.html.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.

Central District Health, Public Health District IV, is one of seven public health districts within the state of Idaho, serving the counties of Ada, Boise, Elmore, and Valley. With a vision of Healthy People in Healthy Communities, CDH’s emphasis is on decreasing risk factors for chronic disease, improving quality of life and increasing the years of healthy life among residents.

Southwest District Health is one of seven public health districts throughout Idaho established to protect and promote the health and wellness of those who live, work, and play in our region. We proudly serve Adams, Canyon, Gem, Owyhee, Payette and Washington Counties. We work in partnership with our community to identify health needs, design solutions, and implement services that encourage behaviors contributing to healthier, longer lives. Learn more at swdh.org.

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Media Contacts:

Monique Evancic, Public Information Officer 
Southwest District Health
Monique.Evancic@phd3.idaho.gov
208-800-1262

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 25, 2024

(Nampa, ID) — Southwest District Health is set to open the Western Idaho Youth Support Center (WIYSC) to the public this Monday, January 29^th. WIYSC is hosting an open house for the media, first responders, schools, health systems, and community-based behavioral health organizations today, January 25^th from 3-6pm. This preview event will be held at WIYSC located at 204 10^th Avenue South in Nampa. The support center, operated by Pathways of Idaho, will help set youth in crisis on a path to healing, and will be open 24 hours a day, every day to provide youth ages 10-17 free services. The center will provide a place for youth to calm the crisis, rest, eat, and get the help they need for up to 23 hours and 59 minutes during a crisis situation.

Once at the center, youth will meet with a compassionate team of center staff who will help teens and pre-teens work through their crisis and provide them with resources to support them on their healing journey. Whatever the situation, the center will admit anyone 10-17 years of age who is medically stable. Services will include a safe place to be during any crisis, crisis intervention and mental health support, basic medical screening, mental health evaluation, and ongoing support.

A crisis looks different for everyone, but may include thoughts of suicide, bullying, homelessness, physical or sexual trauma, emotional abuse, loss of a loved one, excessive stress, or anxiety & depression. The center will welcome youth who feel they are in a crisis situation and will help them transition to other services, if more appropriate or for continued support after their initial stay.

Youth crisis centers have been proven to prevent escalation in family conflict and violence in the home. They also help to avoid expensive and unnecessary hospital visits, and involvement with the juvenile justice system or inappropriate incarceration because of a behavioral health crisis.

A guardian’s involvement in their youth’s journey toward healing is vital. Parents and legal guardians are encouraged to join youth at the center and are required to consent to treatment for youth under age 14.

Learn more about the center at WesternIdahoYouthSupportCenter.org.

ABOUT SOUTHWEST DISTRICT HEALTH

Southwest District Health is one of seven public health districts throughout Idaho established to protect and promote the health and wellness of those who live, work, and play in our region. We proudly serve Adams, Canyon, Gem, Owyhee, Payette and Washington Counties. We work in partnership with our community to identify health needs, design solutions, and implement services that encourage behaviors contributing to healthier, longer lives. Learn more at SWDH.org.

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Media Contacts:

Monique Evancic, Public Information Officer 
Southwest District Health
Monique.Evancic@phd3.idaho.gov
208-800-1262

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 12, 2024

Southwest District Health (SWDH) epidemiologists have documented the first flu-related death this season. An elderly woman in Gem County has passed. This marks the 12^th flu death in the state this season amid an increase in the number of respiratory illness cases in our area. Southwest District Health officials encourage individuals to be aware of the signs and symptoms and to take preventive measures to keep themselves and their families healthy. This year, the surge in respiratory disease is mainly attributed to three respiratory viruses circulating in the community: Respiratory Syncytial Virus (sin-SISH-uhl), commonly known as RSV, Influenza (Flu), and COVID-19. Hospitals and healthcare organizations around the nation and in Idaho are reporting increases in hospitalizations and emergency department visits over the past few weeks due to respiratory illnesses. Case trends for respiratory illnesses change quickly and usually peak between December and February.

Now is the time to take precautions and understand how you can prevent becoming ill and how to protect others in your family if you do become ill. 

Some of the ways you can help prevent becoming ill include: 

• Cover coughs and sneezes 
• Wash hands frequently and correctly (with soap and water for 20 seconds)
• Avoid sharing cups and eating utensils with others  
• Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands
• Avoid close contact with sick people
• Limit contact with others if you are sick to keep from infecting them
• Clean and disinfect surfaces such as doorknobs and countertops frequently  
• Practice healthy habits such as eating whole nutritious foods, exercising, and recognizing the importance of your mental health
• If you catch the flu, antiviral drugs can be used to treat it during its early stages. Talk with your doctor if you become very sick with the flu and take antivirals if prescribed

Immunizations are available to protect yourself and your family from severe illness. Per recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), everyone 6 months and older is eligible to receive a flu shot and the COVID-19 vaccine. The RSV vaccine is new this season and has been approved for adults over the age of 60, as well as pregnant mothers during weeks 32 through 36 of their pregnancy to prevent disease in their baby. Infants up to 12 months old are eligible for the RSV preventive antibody. Talk with your healthcare provider to determine if a vaccination is right for you and your family.

RSV, Flu, and COVID-19 usually cause mild cold-like symptoms. However, they pose heightened risks to vulnerable populations, including young children, the elderly, and individuals with underlying health conditions. RSV predominantly affects infants and older adults, often leading to more severe respiratory complications in these age groups. Influenza, with its seasonal nature, can disproportionately impact the very young and the elderly, as well as individuals with weakened immune systems. COVID-19 has been particularly harsh on older adults and those with pre-existing health conditions, such as diabetes, weakened immune system, or respiratory disorders, increasing the likelihood of severe outcomes.  

These viruses can be spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes sending virus-containing droplets into the air, where they can infect a person who inhales the droplets. Direct contact with the virus can also occur, for example, by kissing an infected person. Indirect contact can occur if the virus lands on a surface, such as a doorknob or table, that is then touched by other people who touch their eyes, mouth, or nose before washing their hands. Most commonly, people are contagious for three to eight days after onset of symptoms and may be contagious 1 or 2 days before they show signs of illness. Being infected once does not make you immune and reinfection does occur. 

For more information, visit these links: 

• cdc.gov/rsv/about/prevention.html 
• cdc.gov/flu/prevent/index.html
• cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
• idaho.gov/health-wellness/diseases-conditions/respiratory-syncytial-virus 
• https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/health-wellness/diseases-conditions/flu-seasonal-and-pandemic
• View Idaho respiratory disease data:gethealthy.dhw.idaho.gov/infectious-disease-idaho
• Learn more about the fall 2023 vaccines: cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/whats-new/immunization-overview-2023-2024.html
• Learn more about RSV: cdc.gov/rsv/index.html
• Learn more about Flu: cdc.gov/flu/

ABOUT SOUTHWEST DISTRICT HEALTH

Southwest District Health is one of seven public health districts throughout Idaho established to protect and promote the health and wellness of those who live, work, and play in our region. We proudly serve Adams, Canyon, Gem, Owyhee, Payette and Washington Counties. We work in partnership with our community to identify health needs, design solutions, and implement services that encourage behaviors contributing to healthier, longer lives. Learn more at swdh.org.

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Media Contacts:

Monique Evancic, Public Information Officer 
Southwest District Health
Monique.Evancic@phd3.idaho.gov
208-800-1262

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BOISE, Jan. 3, 2024

The Western Idaho Community Health Collaborative (WICHC) will hold a press conference to present Idaho’s first community-driven Regional Health Implementation Plan.

At the event, we’ll introduce Idaho’s first-ever Regional Health Implementation Plan, an action plan that details how 23 agencies in western Idaho will work together over the next three years to address the region’s top health needs: housing, behavioral health and access to care.

The plan is based on the findings from the 2023 Community Health Needs Assessment. During the press conference, a WICHC panel will explain the collaborative three-year plan created to protect and advance innovative public health practices in western Idaho.

What: WICHC Regional Health Implementation Plan

When: 3-5 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024

Where: Central Plaza Auditorium, St. Luke’s Boise Plaza, 800 E. Park Blvd. Boise, ID

Who:

• Jeff Agenbroad, former Idaho state senator
• Russ Duke, Central District Health director
• Raul Enriquez, Southwest Idaho Agency on Aging director
• Ariel Foster, Saint Alphonsus Community Health and Wellbeing senior coordinator
• Courtney Frost, Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation senior program officer
• Angie Gribble, Luke’s Community Health and Engagement senior director
• Brian Knight, former Human Supports of Idaho administrator
• Theresa McLeod, Luke’s community health administrator
• Alexis Pickering, WICHC program manager
• Nikki Zogg, Southwest District Health director

Why: Presenters will explain the nine strategies WICHC partners will take over the next three years to address housing needs, behavioral health expansion and access to care in the region. How: Please RSVP to Courtney Kelly at ckelly@cdh.idaho.gov

Interview Opportunities: Interviews will be available after the press conference with the following WICHC partners:

• Former Senator Jeff Agenbroad
• Courtney Frost, Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation
• Angie Gribble, Luke’s Health System
• Alexis Pickering, WICHC
• Nikki Zogg, Southwest District Health
• Tim Jackson, United Way of Treasure Valley

Related links: News release regarding the 2023 CHNA, July 2023

About Central District Health

Central District Health, Public Health District IV, is one of seven public health districts within the state of Idaho, serving the counties of Ada, Boise, Elmore, and Valley. With a vision of Healthy People in Healthy Communities, CDH’s emphasis is on decreasing risk factors for chronic disease, improving quality of life and increasing the years of healthy life among residents.

About Southwest District Health

Southwest District Health is one of seven public health districts throughout Idaho established to protect and promote the health and wellness of those who live, work, and play in our region. We proudly serve Adams, Canyon, Gem, Owyhee, Payette and Washington Counties. We work in partnership with our community to identify health needs, design solutions, and implement services that encourage behaviors contributing to healthier, longer lives. Learn more at swdh.org.

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Media Contacts:

Monique Evancic, Public Information Officer 
Southwest District Health
Monique.Evancic@phd3.idaho.gov
208-800-1262

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 21, 2023

CALDWELL, IDAHO – Southwest District Health (SWDH) is announcing the first case of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) in its jurisdiction. The case was detected mid-November in a man who lives in Canyon County.

The investigation is ongoing. Epidemiologists have not yet been able to determine the source of the exposure, but there is currently a small outbreak in Ada County. Local and state public health officials are working with the patient to make sure any potential close contacts are identified and notified of exposure risk, and the patient’s healthcare providers to ensure the patient is treated, if need be.

Mpox can be mild to severe. Most people with mild mpox disease recover on their own. Antivirals are available for patients who might have severe disease, have other conditions that might increase their risk for severe disease, or develop complications. Southwest District Health recommends vaccination for people who have been exposed to mpox or might be exposed to mpox to reduce symptoms and prevent further spread in our community. Southwest District Health is able to provide the JYNNEOS (pronounced gin-EE-ohs) vaccine to those who are looking to get vaccinated or have been recently exposed. Residents can call Southwest District Health at 208-455-5300 to schedule an appointment. Individuals with mpox should self-isolate until their lesions have fully healed with new skin where the lesions used to be. Residents can contact their local health district if they have any questions or concerns about isolating.

How is mpox spread?

Mpox can spread to anyone through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact, including:

• Direct contact with mpox rash, scabs, or body fluids from a person with mpox. We believe this is currently the most common way that mpox is spreading in the U.S.
• Touching objects, fabrics (clothing, bedding, or towels), and surfaces that have been used by someone with mpox.
• Contact with respiratory secretions.

What are the symptoms of mpox?

Symptoms* of concern include:

• Fever ≥100.4°F (38°C)
• Chills
• Swelling of the lymph nodes
• New skin rash – Rash may look like pimples or blisters.

*Fever and rash occur in nearly all people infected with mpox virus.

Close contacts should be monitored for symptoms for 21 days after their last exposure. If symptoms develop, individuals should isolate and call Southwest District Health for further guidance. Contacts who remain asymptomatic can continue routine daily activities.

How to prevent mpox?

Take the following steps to prevent mpox:

• Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like mpox.
  • Do not touch the rash or scabs of a person with mpox.
  • Do not kiss, hug, cuddle or have sex with someone with mpox.
  • Do not share eating utensils or cups with a person with mpox.
• Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person with mpox.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

What to do if you have symptoms of mpox?

SWDH encourages anyone who is experiencing an unexplained skin rash with or without a fever to contact their healthcare provider and avoid contact with others. If possible, call ahead before going to a healthcare facility. If you are not able to call ahead, tell a staff member as soon as you arrive that you are concerned about mpox. Tell your doctor if in the month before developing symptoms: 

• You had contact with a person who might have had mpox. 
• You were in an area where mpox has been reported (currently, Europe, North America, South America, Australia) or in an area where mpox is more commonly found (the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo, Nigeria, Central African Republic, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Sudan). 

Anyone who is ill with these symptoms is encouraged to follow advice given by SWDH and their healthcare provider to help prevent the spread to others.

For more information on mpox, please visit www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/mpox/symptoms.

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ABOUT 

Southwest District Health is one of seven public health districts throughout Idaho established to protect and promote the health and wellness of those who live, work, and play in our region. We proudly serve Adams, Canyon, Gem, Owyhee, Payette and Washington Counties. We work in partnership with our community to identify health needs, design solutions, and implement services that encourage behaviors contributing to healthier, longer lives. Learn more at www.swdh.org.

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Media Contacts:

Monique Evancic, Public Information Officer 
Southwest District Health
Monique.Evancic@phd3.idaho.gov
208-800-1262