COMMUNITY CONTACT - COVID-19 CASES
Please see the updated CDC guidance summarized below:
- Changes in isolation recommendations for symptomatic persons
Persons who think or know they have COVID-19 and have symptoms should isolate until:
§ At least 10 days since symptoms first appeared and
§ At least 24 hours with no fever without fever-reducing medication and
§ Symptoms have improved
Persons who test positive for COVID-19 and do not have symptoms should isolate until:
§ 10 days have passed since test
CDC discourages using the test-based strategy except as described below
- Isolation recommendations for severe, advanced immunosuppressed persons
People with severe, advanced immunosuppression should isolate until:
- Two negative test results in a row, at least 24 hours apart OR
- 20 days post symptom onset or date of test
- Re-exposure recommendations for persons previously infected with COVID-19
Previously diagnosed with COVID-19 have since recovered and remain asymptomatic:
· Retesting isNOT recommended within three months after the date of symptom onset (or date of test if asymptomatic persons) for the initial COVID-19 infection
· Quarantine is NOT recommended in the event of close contact with an infected person during the three month time period, as long as the previously diagnosed person remains asymptomatic (i.e., has not developed symptoms of a new illness)
In persons who develop new symptoms consistent with COVID-19 during the 3 months after the date of initial symptom onset (if an alternative etiology cannot be identified by a provider) they should be clinically evaluated as appropriate and re-testing should be considered if there is not an alternative diagnosis.
o The symptomatic person should be isolated again, if symptoms developed within 14 days after close contact with a new COVID case.
· If your symptoms worsen and you feel the need to see a medical provider, please call them first to determine the treatment plan and visit method that are best for you.
For the most current information on COVID-19, please visit: https://idph.iowa.gov/Emerging-Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirusor https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
news
IDPH Launches Vaccine Website
March 2, 2021 - The Iowa Department Public Health (IDPH) has launched Vaccinate.Iowa.gov, a new website that provides information about vaccine priority populations and eligibility, resources available for Iowans age 65 and older, and answers to frequently asked questions about vaccine. The site also hosts a locator tool where users can enter their zip code to find vaccine providers near them. Once a provider is selected, appointment scheduling will be done through the provider’s website or scheduling platform. Information on the site will be updated regularly and site content can be translated into multiple languages. More vaccine administration information is available at coronavirus.iowa.gov.
To help older Iowans navigate the scheduling process, IDPH is partnering with 211 to provide a dedicated team of vaccine navigators who will schedule appointments for Iowans age 65 and older who are unable to do so because of technology barriers. This 211 vaccine navigator service will be available starting the week of March 8.
IDPH is encouraging Iowans to remain patient as more vaccine arrives in the weeks and months ahead. It is also critical to continue practicing the mitigation measures that can slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
- Wear a mask or face covering
- Practice social distancing with those outside your household
- Clean your hands frequently with soap and water
- Stay home if you feel sick
- Get tested if you are exposed to, or have symptoms of COVID-19
- Get a COVID-19 vaccine when you are eligible
Requirement for Proof of Negative Test/Recovery from COVID-19 for All Air Travelers Arriving in US
January 25, 2021 - Are you planning to travel internationally? Or, do you have someone traveling internationally to see you? If so, you will need to get tested no more than 3 days before you travel by air into the United States. For more information, visit the following link:
BEware of Utility Scams during COVID-19
While the current COVID-19 crisis has brought out the best in people, the situation has also brought out the worst in some people. We are hearing some disturbing reports of utility scams throughout the state. If you are called by someone offering help that's too good to be true, hang up and call the utility directly. Use an Internet search to find the phone number for your utility provider; do not rely on a phone number given to you by the caller. For more tips and information, visit the Iowa Utilities Board's website at https://iub.iowa.gov/…/beware-utility-scams-during-covid-19…
BUSINESS reopening information
May 11, 2020 - Safeguard Iowa Partnership has released information for businesses reopening after COVID-19 related closures. That document can be found at http://www.safeguardiowa.org/resources/Documents/BRP%2005072020.pdf