By: Donovan W. Mann – donovanm@977thebolt.com
Humboldt, IA – The first case of COVID-19 has been confirmed in Humboldt County by Public Health.
On Saturday, April 18, Humboldt County Public Health confirmed through a press release that there is now a confirmed case of COVID-19 in Humboldt County. The resident is in the 41-60 age group and currently being monitored by public health. This is the first confirmed case in the county.
In the release Humboldt County Public Health Director Joleen Sernett says “while this is Humboldt County’s first case, it may not be the lase, and that’s why we encourage all residents to continue to make prevention a priority.”
Residents should take the follow the actions to help prevent the spread of the virus:
- Stay home as much as possible. Leave only for essential errands like groceries or getting medication. When you run these errands, send only one person from the household, if possible.
- Stay home when even mildly ill (the kind of illness that normally wouldn’t prevent you from your everyday activities)
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow/upper arm.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Approximately 80% of Iowans who become infected with COVID-19 will only experience mild to moderate illness. Most of those who experience mild symptoms will not need to go to their healthcare provider or be tested to confirm they have the virus. Those who become sick must stay home and isolate themselves from others in their 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 Humboldt County Public Health is asking that you call your healthcare provider and they will assess the situation further. More information on COVID-19 can be found at coronavirus.iowa.gov or through the Iowa Department of Public Health website idph.iowa.gov/Emerging-Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus.