“Stay Home,” is the message being delivered to residents throughout Washington County.

    Washington County Public Health and Washington County Emergency Management are working closely with local government officials and the Washington County Hospital and Clinics in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

    According to Friday’s numbers from the Iowa Department of Public Health, Washington County has 43 confirmed positive cases, ranking the county fourth in the state behind Linn, Johnson and Polk counties.

    Alarmingly, the three deaths reported in Washington County represent 25% of the state’s total reported deaths so far due to the coronavirus.

    “Our numbers continue to grow and will continue to grow,” explained Washington County Public Health Director Danielle Pettit-Majewski. “This is serious. The numbers we see today are based on behaviors from 10-21 days ago.

    “What we are doing today will drive the outbreaks we have in the next few weeks. Please stay home as much as you can. The only thing that will stop this is our behavior, and we’re only as strong as the weakest link”.

    All of the cases in Washington County are due to community spread, meaning the virus has been passed from individuals throughout their communities.

    “Slowing the spread should be a priority for us all,” said Washington Mayor Jaron Rosien. “If not for our own health, for the people of all ages that have and will continue to die from the disease, if we don’t follow the guidelines.”

    Washington County Hospital and Clinics continue operation of their Respiratory Triage Clinic and have restricted visitor access to help prevent the spread. Patients should call ahead to their healthcare providers if they have symptoms.

    “We are seeing hospitalizations of young, healthy individuals, it is very important that everyone take precautions to help stop the spread,” said Pettit-Majewski.        

    While city hall buildings have closed, services are still being provided and local government officials are doing their best to monitor the situation and working closely with Public Health and Emergency Management.

    “As time goes by and weather improves, there will be a temptation to reunite with friends and family in a public setting,” said Kalona City Administrator Ryan Slaubaugh, speaking for the city administrators throughout Washington County. “As communities we would implore the public to continue to follow the state and federal mandates for social distancing and to continue to stay indoors and limit trips to public places to essential purposes only. 

    “Should you need assistance in your respective community please reach out to your city leaders as there are numerous outlets to meet your needs while staying safely at home and protecting your health and the health of your community.”

    Washington County Public Health and Emergency Management are continually monitoring this event and will continue to provide guidance and direction to local governments and individuals.

    Anyone with questions or concerns regarding the coronavirus should call 211 first and if necessary Washington County Public Health at 319-653-7758.

    Information is also available online at https://coronavirus.iowa.gov.