Primghar, Iowa — O’Brien County Public Health officials say that three additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in the county.
That brings O’Brien County’s total number of cases to ten. Three of the ten confirmed COVID-19 cases have recovered, according to public health officials.
They say they are working closely with the Iowa Department of Public Health and the CDC, as well as local public and private partners to respond to and mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
O’Brien County Public Health says it is important for residents to make prevention a priority through practicing social distancing, staying away from gatherings of people, maintaining a 6-foot distance between yourself and others, washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20-seconds each time, covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow or upper arm, and staying at home when ill – even mildly ill.
They tell us that about 80% of Iowans infected with COVID-19 will experience only mild to moderate illness.
O’Brien County Public Health says:
People who are mildly to moderately ill DO NOT need to be tested to confirm they have COVID-19.
People who are mildly to moderately ill DO NOT need to see their healthcare provider.
If they feel they need to see a health care provider, they should CALL before going into the office. The healthcare provider may have special instructions for their visit.
Even people who are mildly to moderately ill need to stay home and isolate themselves from others in their house until:
They have had no fever for at least 72 hours (three full days of no fever without the use of medicine that reduces fevers)
AND
Other symptoms have improved (for example, their cough or shortness of breath have improved)
AND
At least 7 days have passed since your symptoms first appeared.
Also, they suggest that you routinely clean frequently touched surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, light switches, countertops) with the cleaners typically used. Use all cleaning products according to the directions on the label.
