Officials in Woodbury County say they want the public to be more educated about COVID-19. Siouxland Public Media’s Sheila Brummer has the story.
So, far there isn’t a local case of COVID-19 but that could change at a moment’s notice.
“We want to assure the community we are there monitoring that is a case does develop, we got them tracked.”
That’s Kevin Grieme, the Director of the Siouxland District Health Department.
He spoke at a news conference at the Security Institute on the campus of Western Iowa Tech Community College Wednesday afternoon with local law enforcement and emergency management leaders looking on.
“The reason that COVID-19 is a little more different it is more novel and more unique we do not have the history with it. That’s why we need to have the response efforts.”
Grieme says if you feel like you might have the virus, call your health provider or the Siouxland Community Health Center, first before going to your doctor’s office, ER or urgent care in person.
They will walk you through a series of questions to see if you qualify for testing.
Grieme also has other tips for the public to follow.
“Most importantly it gets back to the basics. Wash your hands, cover your cough and sneezes. If you are ill stay home and look at the surfaces where the virus might reside, disinfect those.”
Grieme admits he is frustrated with the extensive media coverage of the disease.
“It’s not that is isn’t factual. But, we feel it’s creating anxiety with our residents.”
However, Grieme says there is more concern comes to older people and others with immune issues because they do face a higher risk.
A public hotline has been established for Iowans with questions and concerns about COVID-19. The line is available 24/7 by calling 2-1-1.
