First Case of COVID-19 Confirmed in Des Moines County

coronavirus

Burlington, Ia –  The first case of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has been confirmed in Des Moines County.

According to the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH), the individual is self-isolating at home.

No other information on the individual was released.

Des Moines County Public Health Director Christa Poggemiller tells citizens: “While this is Des Moines County’s first case, it may not be the last, and that’s why we encourage all residents to continue to make prevention a priority.”

The Department of public health recommends continuing to practice proper handwashing and social distancing to help minimize the spread of coronavirus.   If you feel ill at any time, you are asked to stay home and contact a healthcare professional.

(Statement from Des Moines County Public Health):

Approximately 80% of Iowans infected with COVID-19, will experience only a mild to moderate illness. Most mildly ill Iowans do not need to go to their healthcare provider or be tested to confirm they have COVID-19. Sick Iowans must stay home and isolate themselves from others in their house. Stay home and isolate from others in the house until:

You have had no fever for at least 72 hours (that is three full days of no fever without the

use of medicine that reduces fevers) AND other symptoms have improved (for example, when your cough or shortness of breath have improved)AND at least 7 days have passed since your symptoms first appeared.

If you think you may need healthcare, call first. Your provider can assess whether you need to be

seen in the office or if you can recover at home. There may also be options for you to talk to a

medical provider from home using technology.