SPIRIT LAKE, Iowa (KTIV) -- A case of the COVID-19 coronavirus has been confirmed in Dickinson County.

According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, the individual is receiving treatment in isolation. No other information about the case has been released.

Staff at Lakes Regional Healthcare says this may not be Dickinson County's last case of COVID-19.

"While this is Dickinson County's first case, it may not be the last, and that's why we encourage all residents to continue to make prevention a priority," said Lakes Regional Healthcare Director of Population and Public Health Brandon Rohrig.

These actions include:

Washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds each time.

Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow/upper arm.

Staying home when ill.

Practicing social distancing, staying at least 6 feet away from others whenever possible.

Health officials say about 80% of people infected with COVID-19 will experience only a mild to moderate illness. Most mildly ill people do not need to go to their healthcare provider or be tested to confirm they have COVID-19.

As of March 26, health officials report there have been over 170 cases of COVID-19 in Iowa. Currently, the IDPH is reporting that 31 individuals are hospitalized while 15 other individuals have been discharged from hospitals and are now recovering.

Officials advise people who are sick should stay home and isolate themselves from others in their house. Stay home and isolate from others in the house until:

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 have improved)

At least 7 days have passed since your symptoms first appeared.



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