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First Case of COVID-19 in Des Moines County

CDC

The Des Moines County Public Health Department said the Iowa Department of Public Health has confirmed a case of novel coronavirus in Des Moines County. The person is self-isolating at home.

“It’s no reason to panic. It’s already been community spread in the state of Iowa,” said Christa Poggemiller, Des Moines County Public Health Director. “We were expecting that eventually our county would have a case.”

She urged people to make prevention a priority by:

  • Washing hand frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds each time
  • Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow/upper arm
  • Staying home when ill

Poggemiller said anyone who feels they need to see a doctor should call first.
“Let your doctor know your symptoms and that you have potentially been exposed, and they will give you direction as to where to come for testing or to be seen by a doctor,” she said.

She said the department has set up a COVID communication hotline, which can be reached by calling the department at 319-753-8290.

Rich is TSPR's News Director.