FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 30, 2026
Contact: Black Hawk County PublicHealth
Phone: (319) 291-2413
publichealth@blackhawkcounty.iowa.gov
Black Hawk County Board of Health Adopts Updated Position Statement on Immunizations
The Black Hawk County Board of Health has approved an updated position statement on immunizations. This update reflects the Board’s continued commitment to protecting the health of people of all ages. The Board regularly reviews its policies to make sure they match the latest scientific evidence, are transparent, and address local health needs.
The Board continues to strongly support immunizations as one of the best ways to prevent disease and keep the community healthy. Immunizations have greatly reduced illness, disability, and death from many infectious diseases. They have also helped people live longer and enjoy a better quality of life. High vaccination rates help stop disease outbreaks and reduce the cost of emergency care, hospital stays, and follow-up treatment.
The Board supports policies that improve immunization rates, such as immunization requirements for entering childcare and school. These requirements have been shown to strengthen community protection and reduce the spread of disease.
“Immunizations protect both individuals and the broader community,” said Board member Dr. Adam Roise. “Our role is to ensure residents have access to accurate information and clear guidance grounded in science.”
The Board also recognizes that vaccine recommendations change over time as science evolves. These changes should be based on careful, transparent scientific review. When recommendations change without following this process, it can create confusion for families, healthcare providers, schools, and public health agencies. Because of this, the Board stresses the importance of using the best scientific evidence along with the experience of medical and public health professionals when making recommendations.
This position statement highlights the need for clear and consistent information that helps people make informed decisions, respects the role of patients and families, and protects community health. The Board supports strong partnerships with healthcare providers and efforts to remove barriers to immunizations, such as cost, transportation, and limited understanding of health information.
The full position statement is available on the Black Hawk County Public Health website.
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Black Hawk County Public Health exists to ensure that people in our community have equitable opportunities and resources to lead healthier, more fulfilling, and longer lives. Established in 1969, the health department's mission is to protect people in our community from health hazards, promote healthy behaviors, and prevent disease. Black Hawk County Public Health was accredited by the National Public Health Accreditation Board in 2022. For more information about health department services visit the Black Hawk County Public Health website.