Wednesday, February 5, 2020

Update (Feb. 10): The two Iowans mentioned as undergoing testing for the virus in the below message tested negative for the virus.

Implementation of increased surveillance resulting from recommendations by President Trump’s Task Force on Coronavirus has identified two Iowans now undergoing testing for Novel Coronavirus. These individuals recently returned from travel to China, and are being isolated with public health supervision. The testing is being handled by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the results are not expected for several days. This is peak season for respiratory viruses, and it’s expected that many travelers returning from China could exhibit symptoms of common viruses, like the flu.

The Iowa Department of Public Health will not be releasing the county or the region of Iowa where the persons being tested reside. The recommended actions for the public are no different than for any respiratory virus, including the flu.

The risk to the general public remains low at this time, as influenza is a much more significant threat to Iowans right now. Please keep in mind that the risk is associated with travel to China, not a specific ethnicity or group of people.

Please remember to:

  • Clean hands frequently with soap and water.
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes.
  • Contain germs by staying home when ill.
  • Get a flu shot – it’s not too late.

While we are taking proactive actions to protect our campus and our visitors, it is important to note that there are no confirmed cases in our state at this time, and the immediate risk for the general public, who are unlikely to be exposed to the virus at this time, is low.  However, we are fully prepared to diagnose and treat any potential patient who might be infected with this virus should the need arise.

We will continue to follow the most up-to-date protocols set by the CDC and the Iowa Department of Public Health, and requiring people without symptoms who do not work in a healthcare setting to get tested or to isolate themselves is not being advised at this time.