The Vanderburgh County Board of Health convened on September 11, 2025, to address several pressing health issues and budgetary matters. The meeting began with discussions surrounding public health concerns related to vaccines and the current state of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the region.

A significant topic of concern was the potential lack of insurance coverage for vaccines, which could hinder public health efforts. Board members expressed apprehension about the new board overseeing vaccine approvals, citing a lack of confidence in their understanding of the situation. This sentiment was echoed by concerns regarding public perception of vaccine safety, with fears that misinformation could lead to decreased vaccination rates.

The board also discussed the recent rise in cases of a disease commonly referred to as the "kissing disease," which has been reported as far north as Tennessee. In response, officials advised residents to avoid travel to Tennessee to mitigate potential exposure.

In terms of STD statistics, the board reported a notable decline in cases across various categories. The treatment rates for STDs in Vanderburgh County were reported at 98%, significantly outperforming state averages, which have seen increases in some areas. Specifically, syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia cases were all reported to be down, with the county maintaining a strong defense against a new strain of antibiotic-resistant gonorrhea.

The meeting also included an administrator's report on the budget process. The board is in the final stages of budget preparation, having submitted proposals earlier in the year. Adjustments were made to current budgets, reallocating funds from unfilled positions to better align with immediate needs.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the board's proactive approach to managing public health challenges and its commitment to maintaining high treatment rates for STDs while navigating the complexities of vaccine administration and public perception. The board plans to continue monitoring these issues closely as they move forward.