Extensive Community Spread of COVID-19 in Jones County

The level of community spread of COVID-19 in Jones County has increased significantly this week, and has now reached a 14-day percent positivity of 15.1 percent. This is the highest positivity rate to date for Jones County since the start of the pandemic.

The Jones County Board of Health and Jones County Public Health advise and recommend the following community mitigation strategies be adhered to at all times:

• Stay home when unwell.
• Wash hands often with both soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
• Practice social distancing between yourself and other people (at least 6 feet).
• Cover your mouth and nose with a face covering especially in instances when social distancing is not feasible and/or other means to provide separation are not present. Research has suggested 80 percent of the population wearing masks would do more to reduce COVID-19 spread than a strict lockdown.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue away.
• Clean and disinfect touched surfaces and objects frequently.
• Consult your healthcare provider or public health if you have questions.

NO gatherings for social, community, recreational and leisure purposes are recommended at this time, except with those immediate family members who live in your home. If you have been exposed to COVID-19, please stay at home (quarantine) for 14-days from your last contact with the person who tested positive, and limit contact with other people in your household. If you develop symptoms, contact your healthcare provider or seek testing through www.testiowa.com.