Information on the COVID-19 outbreak is constantly changing and I urge you to stay updated as much as possible to keep you and your families safe. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) have put out guidance on appropriate actions to take and what you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.
These include:
- Individuals 60 years of age and older with underlying health conditions should stay at home and avoid gatherings or other situations of potential exposures, including travel to affected areas.
- Consider personal social distancing measures, like avoiding large gatherings, and limiting the number of attendees per gathering.
- Consider working remotely or online learning when possible.
- Encourage staff to telework (when feasible), particularly individuals at increased risk of severe illness.
- Limit non-essential work travel and gatherings.
Iowa currently has many cases of this virus and community spread appears to be occurring. Community spread occurs when a person has the virus but cannot specifically say when or where they got the infection or why they have it. As part of her efforts to control the public health situation, Governor Reynolds has implemented a number of emergency actions.
To keep up to date on what is happening or to answer any questions, I encourage you to check the CDC website on COVID-19 or the IDPH website. Additionally, a hotline has been established you can call 24/7 with questions. It can be reached by dialing either 211 or 1-800-244-7431. During this period, please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.
Please keep in mind all the small family-owned businesses out there during this trying time, many businesses are open with limited hours, in particular restaurants with to-go orders. Also, remember everyone in the service industry who have had their hours cut, tip them generously!
Also, if you are healthy do not forget to donate blood and schedule an appointment online, here is a link.
