Cleaning up after wind damage or flooding from spring storms can increase a person’s risk of exposure to tetanus. Moving storm debris like trees, wood or carpeting can result in scrapes, cuts and puncture wounds. If dust, dirt, soil or flood water comes in contact with broken skin, tetanus spores and other contaminants can enter […]
Step up your defense: It’s mosquito season! Suggested Caption: It’s the start of mosquito season for many places in the U.S. including Missouri. Use these tips to help prevent mosquito-borne diseases like Zika and Malaria. #iHeardSTL #MosquitoSeason #Mosquito Step up your defense: It’s tick season! Suggested Caption: Don’t let a tick make you sick! Wear […]
Tick and mosquito season is upon us, and scientists predict that changes in climate could make future seasons worse. Many adults reported hearing about it last week. Who is hearing about tick and mosquito diseases? Of 515 adults surveyed in MO, NE, CO, MD, and TX, 31% reported hearing in the last 7 days that tick- and mosquito-borne diseases were […]
Last week, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that fragments of inactive bird flu virus were found in some pasteurized milk sold in grocery stores. Less than 5 days later, 37% of adults surveyed in CO, MD, MO and NE had heard the news. In the sample of 506 adults, 64% reported that they […]
How do milk drinkers feel about the safety of pasteurized milk? Suggested Caption: Is the U.S. milk supply safe? Yes. On May 1st, FDA announced new test results that confirmed that live (active) bird flu virus does not remain in pasteurized milk, further confirming the safety of the milk supply. Raw milk is not safe […]
What happened? On April 23, the FDA and multiple news organizations reported that particles of the H5N1 bird flu virus have been detected in some cow’s milk samples taken from U.S. grocery stores. Is the U.S. milk supply safe? FDA and CDC say yes, based on what is known today. When the milk samples were […]
What do we know about bird flu spreading to mammals? Suggested Caption: The FDA and multiple news groups reported that particles of the bird flu virus were found in some cow’s milk samples taken from U.S. grocery stores. FDA and CDC say that based on what we know today, pasteurized milk is safe because the […]
What should I know about bird flu? Suggested Caption: The bird flu virus is spreading among birds and cattle in the U.S. The risk for the general public is low; those in close contact with infected birds or cows should take precautions. #iHeardSTL #BirdFlu Should I be worried about getting bird flu? Suggested Caption: The […]
The bird flu virus is spreading among birds and, most recently, cattle in the U.S. In early April, a Texas farmer tested positive for bird flu. Among St. Louis adults surveyed, 19% had heard about the case. Respondents ages 50+ were more likely to hear it than those under 50 (29% vs 14%). Bird flu, […]
It was a slow week for conversations about health, according to a national dashboard that tracks online and offline narratives about multiple health topics. Here in St. Louis, iHeard’s weekly survey found the same was true locally. National tracking data showed that the spread of health information declined almost 20% from the previous week. Vaccine […]
Sign up for weekly alerts! Suggested Caption: Sign up for weekly iHeard St. Louis alerts and free communication resources! Visit STL.iHeard.org and click on the “sign up” button. #iHeardSTL
In 2023, Walgreens announced it will close 150 stores by August 2024 to cut costs. On April 9th, the next of those stores to close will be in St. Louis’ Jeff-Vander-Lou neighborhood at Grand Boulevard and Martin Luther King Avenue. More than a quarter (28%) of St. Louis adults heard about this closure in the […]
How do I change my pharmacy? Suggested Caption: Want to change your pharmacy? It’s easy! Make sure to have info about your medications and insurance with you. Get in touch with your healthcare provider and pharmacy if you have any questions. #iHeardSTL #STL #Pharmacy Where is a nearby pharmacy? Suggested Caption: The Walgreens store in […]
Public understanding of weight-loss drugs is low Suggested Caption: It’s okay to have questions about weight-loss medicines. Look to sources like your doctor, Mayo Clinic, and MedlinePlus to learn more. #iHeardSTL #WeightLossDrugs #StayAware #PublicHealthEducation Fake weight-loss drugs Suggested Caption: Only 4% of adults surveyed in MD, MO and NE are confident that they could tell […]
Although two-thirds of adults surveyed had heard about newly approved weight-loss drugs, knowledge about weight-loss drugs in general was low: In contrast, only 24% thought weight-loss drugs were safe, 38% thought they were effective and 16% thought they helped people sustain weight loss over time. Respondents were 422 adults in MD, MO and NE. “The […]
Measles is preventable! Suggested Caption: There have been 58 cases of measles so far this year. This already equals the total number of cases in ALL of 2023. The takeaway: measles is preventable. Vaccinations reduce the spread of measles & the severity of symptoms. #iHeardSTL #Measles #StayHealthy #GetVaccinated
According to the CDC’s March 18 alert, there have been 58 confirmed cases of measles infection in the U.S. this year, the same number recorded for the entire year in 2023. Over one in four (28%) St. Louis adults reported hearing that “Measles cases are on the rise” in the last week. Of the 58 […]
Can I give blood after getting vaccinated for COVID-19? Suggested Caption: Help spread the word: You can donate blood after getting a COVID vaccine. If the vaccine is FDA-approved and you don’t feel sick, you can give blood right away. If you don’t know which vaccine you got, wait 14 days after getting vaccinated. #iHeardSTL […]
Recent social media posts FALSELY claimed that a person cannot donate blood after receiving a COVID vaccine. One in five (21%) adults surveyed in MD, MO, and NE heard the claim last week, and 30% of those believed it could be true. Men were more likely to hear the claim than women (29% vs 16%). […]
On March 1, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its isolation guidelines for COVID and other respiratory infections. In a survey of 421 adults in three states (MD, MO and NE) conducted March 9-11, 58% had heard about the change. However, African American respondents were less likely to have heard about the […]
What if I get sick? Suggested Caption: As of March 1, the CDC updated guidelines for respiratory illnesses, such as COVID-19, influenza, and RSV. Take a look at Elena, Sean, Isabella, and Max’s situations for examples on how to navigate the new guidelines! The updated guidelines can be found at: https://www.cdc.gov/ncird/whats-new/updated-respiratory-virus-guidance.html #iHeardSTL #COVIDGuidelines #CDC #STLHealth […]
During the first 2 months of 2024, 41 measles cases have been reported across 16 states, including Missouri. In all of 2023, there were only 58 cases in the U.S. Nearly one in four (24%) St. Louis adults reported hearing that measles cases were on the rise last week. Because most measles cases are reported […]
Measles cases Suggested Caption: Have you been hearing about the recent measles outbreaks? Swipe to learn more about what’s going on. The takeaway: measles is preventable. Vaccinations reduce the spread of measles & the severity of symptoms. #iHeardSTL #Measles #StayHealthy #GetVaccinated Measles case increase Suggested Caption: Have you been hearing about the recent measles outbreaks? […]
UPDATE (March 1, 2024): Please use the newest resource “New CDC Guidelines” instead of the “COVID-19 Isolation” resource because the guidance on isolation with COVID has changed. New CDC Guidelines Suggested Caption: As of March 1, the CDC has announced new guidelines for respiratory illnesses, such as COVID-19, influenza, and RSV. People who test positive […]
A recent TikTok video claimed that long-term use of Benadryl could increase your risk of dementia. Nearly one in six (16%) St. Louis adults reported hearing the claim in the last week, a 5% increase from the prior week; 93% believed it was true. Older adults 50+ were more likely to hear the claim than […]
Worried Benadryl is safe? Suggested Caption: Recent TikTok videos claimed that regularly using Benadryl for sleep increases your risk of dementia; scientists are still learning about this, with several studies finding an increased risk if you take the drug daily for 3+ years. Always use your medication as recommended. #iHeardSTL #Benadryl #AnticholinergicDrugs #STLHealth Allergy medication […]
UPDATE (March 1, 2024): The CDC guidance on isolation with COVID & other respiratory illnesses has changed. Please use the newest resource “New CDC Guidelines”. On February 13th, The Washington Post reported that CDC would be relaxing its COVID isolation guidelines. However, CDC officials said that there are no updates to the guidelines. Despite CDC’s denial, 29% […]
Did you know? Suggested Caption: The CDC and FDA are investigating a Listeria outbreak linked to dairy products. Visit the FDA’s website for a complete list of products that are affected, and check your fridge! #iHeardSTL #Listeria #Queso #Cotija #FDA
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reopened an investigation into a Listeria outbreak after new illnesses were reported in December 2023. In last week’s iHeard survey only 19% of St. Louis adults had heard that “A Listeria outbreak was linked to dairy products.” Those under age 50 […]
International Condom Day Suggested Caption: Happy International Condom Day! When used correctly, condoms are highly effective for preventing pregnancy and STIs. Before you celebrate, be sure to choose a well-fitting, non-expired condom and put it on with the rolled side out. #iHeardSTL #SafeSex #ValentinesDay St. Louis Valentine Meme Cards Suggested Caption: Share the St. Louis […]
Did you know? Suggested Caption: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned against the use of Neptune’s Fix and any other products with tianeptine due to potential danger to consumers. It is not FDA-approved for any medical use but is illegally marketed to improve brain function and treat conditions such as anxiety, depression, pain, and […]
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning Americans not to use Neptune’s Fix products, which have been linked to seizures, loss of consciousness, and two deaths. When surveyed last week, only 5% of St. Louis adults said they’d heard that Neptune’s Fix was illegal and dangerous. Neptune’s Fix products contain tianeptine (pronounced: tai·uh·nep·teen), which […]
It’s okay to have questions about vaccines Suggested Caption: It’s okay to want to find answers to questions you have about vaccines. Here are a few places we recommend going to for answers: – Your doctor or child’s doctor – Trusted medical leaders like Mayo Clinic – Dedicated health websites like MedlinePlus from the National Library […]
Despite being unsupported by research, claims about COVID-19 mRNA vaccines interfering with human DNA continue to circulate. This week, one in six adults (17%) surveyed in four states said they’d heard the claim in the last 7 days; 72% of those believed it could be true. Persistence of this claim may be due to concerns […]
Respiratory infections are on the rise in St. Louis, but free face masks are harder to find. The City of St. Louis Department of Health recently issued a masking recommendation for residents due to the increased respiratory infection rates in late December: However, 1 in 7 St. Louis adults surveyed said they’ve heard that it […]
When should I wear a mask? Suggested Caption: Mask-wearing can help limit the spread of respiratory infections in the community. #iHeardSTL #Masks #StayHealthy #KeepSTLHealthy Printable flyer – Masking Practices Does your organization have free masks available? Let people know! Use these templates to spread the word. Suggested Caption: We have free masks! When you enter […]
What should you know about winter weather? Suggested Caption: A #reminder to stay safe during cold winter weather! Here are a few tips from the CDC: ✅ Leave faucets dripping and under-sink cabinet doors open to prevent pipes from bursting✅ Wear layered clothing and use blankets to stay warm.✅Follow weather alerts in up to 5 […]
According to Red Cross, the number of people donating blood is the lowest it has been in 20 years. Among St. Louis adults surveyed, 27% had heard about the emergency blood shortage in the last 7 days. Younger adults (<40) were less likely to hear about it than those 40 and older (14% vs. 40%), […]
Did you know? Suggested Caption: According to the Red Cross, the number of people donating blood is the lowest it has been in 20 years. Visit http://RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-733-2767 to find your local blood donation center and make an appointment. #iHeardSTL #RedCross #GiveBlood Donar sangre puede ayudar a salvar la vida de una persona. […]
Concerned about lead exposure? Suggested Caption: St. Louis County is offering walk-in lead screenings at all three clinic locations. Lead screening services are also available to children 6 years of age and under that live in the City of St. Louis: contact your primary care provider or local Federally Qualified Health Center to schedule a […]
It’s not too late to get vaccinated this season. Suggested Caption: Cases of COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are rising. Make sure to stay up-to-date with vaccinations, test yourself and mask in indoor public spaces. Let’s keep each other safe and healthy! Talk to your doctor if you have any questions. #iHeardSTL #COVID […]
Help raise awareness about lead screening options in St. Louis. St. Louis County is offering walk-in lead screenings at all three clinic locations. Lead screening services are also available to children 6 years of age and under that live in the City of St. Louis: contact your primary care provider or local Federally Qualified Health […]
As we ease into the winter season, the number of cases of COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are increasing. Last week, almost half (44%) of St. Louis adults have heard that RSV cases are increasing, and 1 in 5 (21%) heard COVID cases are rising in nursing homes. More older adults (50+ years […]
iHeard St. Louis provides real-time, hyper-local, health information insights and resources to support local organizations. Do you know someone or some organization that would benefit from iHeard weekly alerts and social media assets? Please forward them this information so they can sign up, or share the graphic below! Suggested caption: Sign up for weekly iHeard […]
Please join us in celebrating a few iHeard accomplishments from 2023: We are grateful that you are a part of iHeard St. Louis. Together, we can enrich the health information environment in St. Louis. Best wishes for a healthy and prosperous year ahead! Download the graphic below to share about this topic. Suggested caption: Want […]
Do cell phones, Wi-Fi, and 5G cause radiation poisoning? Many social media posts claim they do, and a survey of 331 adults in four states found that 20% of respondents heard the claim in the last week. In St. Louis, only 6% of adults surveyed had heard the claim, but 62% of them believed it […]
Why do older adults need the RSV vaccine? Suggested Caption: Here’s a quick overview of what to know about claims that say cell phones, Wi-Fi and 5G internet are linked to radiation poisoning. Radiation comes in two types: ionizing and non-ionizing. High doses of ionizing radiation like X-rays may cause cancer, but there’s no evidence […]
Day 1: Introduction Caption: It’s that time of year! 🎉🗓️ iHeard is spending the last 12 days of 2023 reflecting on our work and sharing new insights about what St. Louisans heard this year. We surveyed 200+ St. Louisans each week and asked questions about health information. What have you heard about health in your […]
Infections from Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in Missouri have reached their highest rates since early 2023. Among St. Louis adults surveyed, 27% had heard about rising RSV rates in the last 7 days. Adults ages 40 and older were more likely to hear about it than those under 40 (36% vs 19%), as were African […]
Why do older adults need the RSV vaccine? Suggested Caption: The rate of RSV infection is rising right now in MO. An RSV vaccine for older adults is available and could help protect against hospitalizations. Check local vaccination options today! #iHeardSTL #RSV #RSVVaccination #GetVaccinated #RespiratoryInfection Should infants get the RSV vaccine? Suggested Caption: The rate […]