Over the years, we have described major societal eras as “generations.” There has been the “Greatest Generation,” those of majority age during WWII. I’m of the “Baby Boom” generation, those born after the war. My son is a “Millennial,” entering adulthood as the century turned from the 20th to the 21st.

Throughout history, the concept of generational change reflected a fundamental shift in the way things were seen and priorities were set. In the 60s, this change was marked by a social revolution. In the 90s, computerization produced the information age. In health science, we now have the mapping of the genome and the promise that next generation (Next Gen) techniques can lead to a faster, better and more comprehensive understanding of the causes of human health conditions. The scientists at the State Hygienic Laboratory are working to ensure that Iowa continues to see the best of science supporting its public health. Whether it is identifying and matching a disease organism to a source, or achieving the specificity necessary to assure the most appropriate intervention to an infectious disease, our staff is committed to a course of excellence. The Hygienic Laboratory is in the midst of developing techniques and honing expertise in anticipation of this healthier future.

We Baby Boomers have all sorts of characterizations – good and not so good – that define us and highlight our differences from the Greatest Generation. These characteristics are generalizations, to be sure. But they do reflect the broader sense that fundamental change from one era to another is occurring.

This annual report gives a glimpse of that future – one in which Iowa achieves its goal of becoming our nation’s healthiest state.

Sincerely,

- Christopher G. Atchison