COVID-19 Guidance for COVID Illness and Exposure

The Iowa Department of Public Health's Epi Manual provides the latest recommendations for controlling further spread and preventing disease.  Recommendations for COVID illness and exposure (vaccinated and unvaccinated) can be found in this document: 

• Epi Manual - COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2)

What you can do to reduce the spread COVID-19 at home during this time.

Stay Informed

• Watch for updates on the COVID-19 situation: https://www.scottcountyiowa.gov/health/covid19
• Find data on cases and positivity rates:
  • CDC's COVID Data Tracker:  https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#county-view
  • Iowa's Coronavirus Website:  https://hhs.iowa.gov/Emerging-Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus
• Learn how to protect yourself and household: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html

Prevent the Spread of Germs

• Practice good handwashing
• Cover coughs and sneezes
• Clean surfaces frequently
• Learn the best ways to clean and disinfect your home  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/disinfecting-your-home.html
• Follow guidance from local officials
• Protect those at risk for severe illness like older adults, and people with serious chronic health conditions

Monitor Your Health

• Be alert for symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms)
• If you develop symptoms, follow this guidance from CDC:  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-when-sick.html
• Contact your doctor when needed

Have a Plan of Action

• Keep a 2-week supply of medicine and groceries. Know how to get food delivered if needed.
• Establish ways to communicate with others (family, friends, coworkers).
• Work from home if possible
• Plan for childcare needs
• Know the emergency plans for your schools/workplaces

Learn to Manage Stress and Emotions

• Coping with Traumatic Events: https://youtu.be/_zZm1PuN_eU
• Emotional Health: https://emergency.cdc.gov/coping/selfcare.asp
• Stress and Anxiety: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/managing-stress-anxiety.html
• 24 Hours Crisis Line: Call 844-430-0375 or visit https://easterniowamhds.org/
• Salvation Army's Emotional & Spiritual Care Hotline:
  • 844-458-HOPE (4673) - 8am-8pm daily
  • 877-740-8829 - 8am-4pm daily