Tuesday, April 7, Update

Three More Cases in Dubuque County and 102 Additional Cases in Iowa
The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) has been notified of three additional positive cases in Dubuque County, one adult (18-40 years), one middle age (41-60 years),  and one older adult (61-80 years).  This brings the total number of positive cases confirmed in Dubuque County to 28.

The IDPH reported 102 additional positive cases statewide today for a total of 1,048 positive cases in Iowa.  One additional death was reported in Benton County. There has been an additional 1,017 negative tests for a total of 11,670 negative tests to date in Iowa.  https://idph.iowa.gov/News/ArtMID/646/ArticleID/158328/Additional-COVID-19-Cases-in-Iowa-Additional-Death-Confirmed-4720 

Guidance on Cloth Face Coverings/Masks
The CDC recently issued new guidance and now recommends that the general public wear cloth masks when in public places.  Studies have concluded that while homemade masks may not offer as much protection as surgical masks or N95s, they could still reduce, but not eliminate, the transmissability of viral particles.  Because of this new evidence, wearing cloth face coverings/masks in public places where social distancing measures are difficult (like grocery stores and pharmacies) can be done to help further slow the spread of COVID-19. 

Experts believe masks or face coverings can be useful, not for people trying to avoid the virus, but for people who already have it, given evidence that people infected with coronavirus can be contagious before they show symptoms. 

PLEASE NOTE:  Wearing masks does not exclude anyone from continuing other protective behaviors against COVID-19, which include staying at home unless essential travel is needed, social distancing, and frequent hand washing.

APRIL 7 VIDEO UPDATE
Today’s video update includes an update on positive cases in Iowa and Dubuque County, information on yesterday’s proclamation by Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, the latest recommendation from the CDC on masks, and essential vs. non-essential trips outside the home.  Watch the video at https://youtu.be/qf6C7Gy7WlI 

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