I have been extremely busy with the coronavirus outbreak. It is scary, and there are a lot of things we simply do not know.

Things will change daily; perhaps hourly. I know it is difficult, but we need you to be kind, patient, and calm. Here is some info from Johnson County:

Yesterday, the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) and Johnson County Public Health (JCPH) identified Johnson County’s first case of COVID-19 with no known exposure, suggesting evidence of community spread in the county.

It is believed coronaviruses are primarily spread through respiratory droplets, which means to become infected people generally have to be within 6 feet of someone who is contagious and have the droplets land on them.

We know these recommendations to socially distance yourself from others is challenging,

JCPH wants to thank you for distancing yourself from others in the community. Together we can help protect the health of our most vulnerable populations from this virus. 

It is critical that all residents continue to take preventive measures including:

• Stay home when ill.

• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow/upper arm.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

• Wash hands frequently with soap for at least 20 seconds.

• Social distancing.

Anyone who believes they may need to be tested for COVID-19 should call their health care provider, explain their symptoms and ask about testing.

Do not show up unannounced at a local health care facility, as that can spread the virus.

Following the recommendation of JCPH, as a precaution to protect those who are most vulnerable in our community, Johnson County closed governmental buildings, excluding the Johnson County Courthouse, to the public on March 17 and through 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31.

This is in line with Gov. Kim Reynolds’ order earlier today to close other facilities to the general public.

Johnson County employees will continue to report to work and provide county services.

Many Johnson County services are available online, by phone, or through mail or email.

Contact information for all county departments and offices are available on the Johnson County website at www.johnson-county.com.

JCPH is in constant contact with IDPH and local health care providers and is dedicated to containing the spread of COVID-19 and mitigating its potential impact.