The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring an outbreak caused by a novel (new) coronavirus (COVID-19) first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.  The first case in the United States was announced on January 21, 2020. There are ongoing investigations to learn more. The Iowa Department of Public Health is working with federal, state and local public health, and clinical partners to share information.

The Iowa Department of Public Health has announced positive cases in the state of Iowa.  It is likely that there will be COVID-19 cases in our community in the future.  We continue to monitor this situation and will provide additional information as it becomes available.

Remember the 4 Cs:

• Cover your cough and sneeze. Use a tissue or your elbow.
• Clean your hands. Use soap & water or hand sanitizer.
• Contain germs. Stay home when sick.
• Call your healthcare provider before you visit.

Travel:

Consider postponing non-essential travel.  If travel is necessary, monitor the spread of COVID-19 at your destination and along your route.  If COVID-19 is spreading at your destination, you may be at higher risk of exposure if you travel there. The CDC recommends travelers, particularly those with underlying health issues, defer all cruise ship travel worldwide.

Visit the CDC for guidance on travel: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel

 

To find out more information about Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), visit:

Iowa Department of Health and Human Services Coronavirus (COVID-19):

• https://hhs.iowa.gov/public-health/immunization/covid-19

CDC Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19):

• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

Preventing Coronavirus (COVID-19) from Spreading in Homes and Communities (in English, Español,  中文)

• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/communication/guidance.html