Wasatch County Health Department unveils 2024 annual report and community initiatives

The Wasatch County Town Council convened on May 5, 2025, to discuss various community health initiatives and updates presented by Jonelle Fitzgerald, the Health Director of the Wasatch County Health Department. The meeting began with Fitzgerald's annual report, highlighting the department's commitment to serving all municipalities within the county.

Fitzgerald opened her presentation by acknowledging her late arrival due to participation in the Safe Kids Fair and the Mile by Mile Marathon, which saw over a hundred children completing their final mile despite inclement weather. She emphasized the importance of the health department's role in public health across the county and encouraged feedback from council members regarding their services.

The report detailed the department's structure, including a seven-member board of health, with Dr. Kendall Crittendon set to take over as chair in 2025. Fitzgerald outlined the various services offered by the department, such as emergency preparedness, environmental health, epidemiology, health promotion, clinical services, and the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program.

A notable highlight from the report was the introduction of a seniors farmers market, funded by a state grant, which provides low-income senior citizens with vouchers for fresh produce. This initiative aims to address food access challenges faced by seniors in the community.

Fitzgerald also discussed the department's efforts in youth drug and alcohol prevention programs and the transition to virtual appointments for WIC families. She reported on infectious disease surveillance, noting over 400 reports of infectious diseases in 2024, with 234 confirmed cases. While COVID-19 cases have significantly decreased, there has been a concerning rise in sexually transmitted diseases, particularly syphilis.

The presentation concluded with a focus on emergency preparedness, particularly in light of a recent earthquake. Fitzgerald explained the health department's responsibilities in ensuring safe water and sanitation in the aftermath of such events and mentioned ongoing collaboration with county officials to update the county-wide emergency management plan.

The meeting underscored the health department's proactive approach to community health and safety, with Fitzgerald inviting continued dialogue with council members to enhance public health services in Wasatch County.