The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) today notified Linn County officials of the first death of a Linn County resident associated with COVID-19. The 61-80 year old male had underlying health conditions.
The Linn County Board of Supervisors released the following statement:
“We are deeply saddened by the death of a Linn County resident from COVID-19. We offer our sincere sympathy to the family. We ask all Linn County residents to do their part to protect each other from this virus by following the guidance from the health care professionals to stay home as much as possible and practice social distancing. We all have a responsibility to limit the spread of this virus and to protect each other and those we love.”
Linn County Public Health and the Linn County Board of Supervisors ask that residents help to support individuals and families affected by COVID-19, as well as the larger community, by following recommendations offered by health care providers and public health officials.
Sick Iowans must stay home and isolate themselves from others in their house. If you think you may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, you should self-isolate for 14 days. If, during that time, you develop symptoms of COVID-19, you should call your healthcare provider before going to the office. Symptoms of COVID-19 include:
- Cough
- Fever
- Shortness of breath
All residents must take action now to help stop the spread of COVID-19 by:
- Practicing social distancing and avoid handshakes. Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and other people, and avoid gatherings of more than 10 people, to help slow the spread of COIVD-19.
- Visiting the grocery store or pharmacy during slow hours, where the number of people are reduced, and limiting non-essential shopping.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; if soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick. If you need to see a health care provider, call first.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
For up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit:
A public hotline has been established for Iowans with questions about COVID-19. The line is available 24/7 by calling 2-1-1.