First Case of COVID-19 Confirmed in Wright County
On 3/26/2020, Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) reported a positive case of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Wright County. This individual is currently self-isolating at home.
While this is Wright County’s first case, it most likely will not be the last. “We continue to urge all residents to make prevention a priority by following these measures.” said Wright County Environmental Health, Epidemiology, and Emergency Preparedness, Sandy McGrath, RN.
- Washing hands frequently with soap and water for a least 20 seconds each time.
- Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow/upper arm.
- Staying home when ill.
- Limit contact with other individuals.
Approximately 80% of Iowans infected with COVID-19, will experience only a mild to moderate illness. Most mildly ill Iowans do not need to go to their healthcare provider or be tested to confirm they have COVID-19. Sick Iowans must stay home and isolate themselves from others in their house. You should continue to isolate yourself until all of the following are met:
- 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)
- other symptoms have improved (for example, when your cough or shortness of breath has improved)
- At least 7 days have passed since your symptoms first appeared.
If you think you may need healthcare, call first. Your provider can assess whether you need to be seen in the office or if you can recover at home. There may also be options for you to talk to a medical provider from home using technology.
For up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit the IDPH webpage at
https://idph.iowa.gov/Emerging-Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus and follow the department on Facebook at @IowaDepartmentOfPublicHealth and on Twitter at @IAPublicHealth.
“The Wright County Board of Supervisors, Wright County Board of Public Health, Emergency Management, Sheriff, City Administrators, City Police Chiefs, and Iowa Specialty Hospitals will continue to hold daily conference calls to update all parties of current developments and needs.” said Karl Helgevold, Wright County Supervisor and Public Information Officer.
Respectively Submitted,
Karl Helgevold, Wright County Board of Supervisor Mickey Cooper, President
515-851-1344 / khelgevold@co.wright.ia.us Wright County Board of Public Health
Public Information Officer (PIO) 515-689-3841 / mcooper@eaglegrovepharmacy.com
