Iowa researchers map areas in Iowa at risk for house fires

Fires and burns are among the 10 causes of preventable injury deaths in the U.S., resulting in over 3,400 deaths every year. A University of Iowa research team investigated if serious house fires in Iowa repeatedly occur in the same areas and whether underlying factors, such as social vulnerability, are connected to these fires. (IPRC blog) Published February 11, 2025

Pentella discusses bird flu, influenza, and testing

Michael Pentella, clinical professor of epidemiology and director of the State Hygienic Laboratory, recently discussed bird flu, testing for influenza, and Iowa's current high level of influenza activity. (Daily Iowan) Published February 11, 2025

Last-Minute Epi Valentines

 Published February 1, 2025

February Faculty Spotlight

Dr. Shoshannah Eggers Hometown: Iowa City, IA Alma mater: University of Wisconsin – Madison Field(s) of research: Environmental Epidemiology, Microbiome Research, Maternal and Child Health, Neurological Health Across the Lifespan Topic or title of current project(s): Associations between various environmental chemical exposures and the human microbiome at several sites (gut, oral, vaginal, urinary) Quickfire Queries: […] Published February 1, 2025

Hamann comments on bill to ban handheld phones while driving

A bill to ban handheld phones while driving is moving forward in the Iowa Legislature. Cara Hamann, associate professor of epidemiology, says a comprehensive ban can improve safety. (Axios) Published January 24, 2025

Q&A: Pentella shares best practices to prevent spread of bird flu

Mike Pentella, professor epidemiology and director of the State Hygienic Laboratory, explains how avian influenza spreads — usually among birds — and that public health surveillance is critical to prevent spreading. Published January 23, 2025

CPH students highlighted in 2025 Dare to Discover campaign

Eight CPH students, post-docs, and recent graduates are featured in the UI's 2025 Dare to Discover banner campaign. Read more about how their research is making an impact. Published January 22, 2025

Nominations for 2025 Outstanding Alumni Awards due March 3

The UI College of Public Health is pleased to announce that it is accepting nominations for its 2025 Outstanding Alumni Awards. This award program recognizes outstanding alumni in two categories: first, recent graduates who have completed College of Public Health programs within the past ten years and, second, other alumni for accomplishments throughout their careers. Published January 21, 2025

Video: CPH faculty address aspects of cancer in Iowa

A recent series of news reports featured several College of Public Health faculty experts, including Mary Charlton, Paul Gilbert, Brandi Janssen, and Mark Vander Weg, who addressed different aspects of cancer in Iowa. (KWWL)  Published January 14, 2025

Levy: Caution needed in interpreting recent study of fluoride and children’s IQ scores

University of Iowa professor of dentistry and epidemiology Steven M. Levy, an international expert on fluoride intake and water fluoridation, addressed a recent study linking fluoride exposure and lower children’s IQ levels. Levy wrote that "several considerations raise substantial concerns about the validity and usefulness of the article," laying out his arguments in an editorial published alongside the study. (JAMA Pediatrics)  Published January 9, 2025