Southeastern Idaho Public Health Programs
Southeastern Idaho Public Health (SIPH) is still running it’s Cooling Station program as the summer draws to a close and the weather begins to change. SIPH Centers will be open during normal business hours to provide a place out of the sun and some cold water for those who may need it during the day.
Hygiene Kits
SIPH also recently announced that its centers across the 8 Idaho counties it serves will be making Hygiene Kits available to those who could use them. The kits include basic toiletries for both men and women, such as toothpaste and toothbrushes, deodorant, facial tissue, hand sanitizer, feminine hygiene products, and more. While the kits are freely available, the staff ask that those in need limit themselves to one kit per adult. Any establishments that wish to serve as a distribution location can contact Jonathan Redd at [email protected].
In Caribou County, the kits are available at the County Office, 55 East 1st South, The Soda Springs Public Library at 149 S Main Street, and the Soda Springs Joint School District nurse.
Flu Shots
The regular flu vaccine as well as high dose vaccine is now available at Southeastern Idaho Public Health (SIPH). The flu vaccine can be administered with most other vaccines, including the COVID-19 vaccine. If you have not yet received your COVID-19 vaccine or may be due for an updated booster, SIPH has it as well. To schedule your appointment, contact the Caribou County Office at 208-547-4375 or visit siphidaho.org for more information.
To reduce your risk of contracting the flu, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends doing the following:
Get your flu vaccination.
It is the single best way to prevent the flu. Remember, even if you got a flu shot last year, you will still need the flu shot this year to be protected this flu season. The best time to get your flu shot is before flu activity is high in your community. It is best to get your vaccine before the end of October. The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months and older. It is especially critical for some groups:
- older people over age 65
- young children, under age 2
- people with chronic lung disease (such as asthma and COPD), diabetes (type 1 and 2), heart disease, neurologic conditions, and certain other long-term health conditions
- pregnant women
- health care workers
Avoid close contact.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick, too.
Stay home when you are sick.
If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
Cover your mouth and nose.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
Clean your hands.
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
Practice other good health habits.
Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious foods.
For more information, visit siphidaho.org or contact Southeastern Idaho Public Health’s Caribou County office at 208-547-4375.
