Register staff

State and federal officials say there are simple, everyday steps you can take to avoid catching or spreading respiratory diseases, including COVID-19: Cover your coughs and sneezes, thoroughly wash or sanitize your hands and stay home if you are sick. Get more information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at CDC.gov/coronavirus, or call 211, the Iowa Department of Public Heath's hotline, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Personnel at health care facilities, schools, the state government and businesses in Iowa are taking a series of measures in response to the novel coronavirus, which causes a disease known as COVID-19.

► Looking for the latest? Here's what we know, March 23-29.

Here's the latest on what Iowans need to know:

Reynolds signs executive order closing salons, spas, tattoo parlors and more

March 22: Iowa's salons, barber shops, medical spas, massage therapists, tattoo shops and swimming pools will be closed until March 31, Gov. Kim Reynolds announced at a news conference Sunday.

She signed an executive order, which will take effect at 10 p.m. Sunday, she said. She has also suspended foreclosures on residential, commercial and agriculture properties.

Reynolds and DHS Director Kelly Garcia are also asking schools, churches and community centers that have space to open day care for children of essential workers, such as hospital staff and first responders.

The department will conduct an on-site visit to ensure it's age-appropriate, can accommodate groups of 10 children, and that all caregivers have passed background checks. The department will also help locate caregivers, Garcia said.

Iowa day care centers have not been ordered closed, but DHS has asked caregivers to do temperature checks of all children before check-in, remove all plush toys and to keep children far apart.

► Read the full story here.

Reynolds asks spring break travelers to self-quarantine for 14 days

March 22: In announcing Iowa's 22 new cases Sunday, Gov. Kim Reynolds said spring break and other travelers "should strongly consider" self-quarantining for 14 days. That extends to domestic and international travelers, she said.

"This will support Iowa's ongoing efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, and limit the introduction of the virus from other points of travel," Reynolds said in a statement.

If school was in session, children would be returning back from spring break Monday. Many Iowa families still took their spring break vacations as planned.

On March 15, Reynolds recommended all schools close for four weeks.

Iowans turn to homemade masks, hospitals plead for donations

March 22: Nurses and other health-care workers across the nation and in Iowa have made pleas for donations of personal protective equipment as they face a nationwide shortage while trying to keep up with an influx of patients.

Joyce Flinn, director of Iowa Homeland Security, said Sunday the state has submitted a request to FEMA for protective medical supplies — based on needs at hospitals and other clinics — and is expected to receive a shipment Monday or Tuesday. The Iowa National Guard and the Iowa Department of Public Health has prioritized "hot zones" and will get the equipment to those areas "as quickly as the product comes in," she said.

Meanwhile, Iowans are volunteering during their self-quarantine time to sew homemade masks for hospitals to have as a back-up option and for non-profit organizations like homeless shelters that are also in need of protective masks during the shortage.

A Facebook group of seamstresses has grown to more than 600 members since it started Friday. They're connecting volunteers to organizations who have requested homemade masks.

►Read the full story here.

Another 22 positive cases in Iowa

March 22: There are 22 new positive cases of COVID-19 in Iowa, the Department of Public Health announced Sunday, bringing the total number of cases to 90 across 24 counties.

The new cases were reported in:

Cerro Gordo County — two adults 18- to 40-years-old

Dallas County — one adult 61-to 80-years-old

Dubuque County — two adults 18- to 40-years-old

Harrison County — two adults 61-to 80-years-old

Johnson County — two adults 18- to 40-years-old; one adult 41- to 60-years old; two adults 61-to 80-years-old

Kossuth County — one adult 18- to 40-years-old

Linn County — one adult 41- to 60-years old

Poweshiek County — one adult 81-years-old or older

Scott County — one adult 41- to 60-years old

Sioux County — one adult 61-to 80-years-old

Tama County — two adults 18- to 40-years-old; one adult 41- to 60-years old

Washington County — one adult 41- to 60-years old

Woodbury County — one adult 41- to 60-years old

► MORE:Here's a map of the coronavirus cases in Iowa

Johnson County mayors urge residents to stay home

March 22: Mayors in Iowa City, Coralville and North Liberty are asking residents to only leave their homes for essential items. They represent the state's third larges

The Johnson County mayors are also asking residents to strictly adhere to Gov. Kim Reynolds' order to restrict gatherings of 10 people or less and her guidance to self isolate for 14 days if returning from out-of-state for business or spring break vacation. The three mayors represent Iowa's third largest metropolitan area.

Their plea comes a day after Des Moines' mayor issued a similar voluntary "stay home, stay healthy" request to help stop the spread of the novel coronavirus.

UIHC asks for donated face shields

March 22: Leaders at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics have made an "urgent request" for face shields to protect all employees who interact with patients, visitors and coworkers as it works to fight COVID-19 in Johnson County — the epicenter of positive cases in Iowa.

The health system is asking businesses and individuals to donate new or used protective face shields.

UIHC currently has a supply of face shields for staff who provide patient care or do screenings at hospital entrances, but are wanting all employees to wear them.

According to a posting on its website, the protective face shields should be lightweight and adjustable, with a shield area that extends below the chin. Staff will disinfect any used face shields that are donated.

The hospital is also in "critical need" of N95 masks, isolation/surgeon masks, face masks with attached eye shields and isolation gowns.

Information on how to donate can be found on UIHC's website, UIHC.org/kind-donations.

► Read the full story here.

Metro orthopedic employee tests positive for COVID-19

March 22: An employee of Iowa Ortho, a metro orthopedic clinic, has tested positive for COVID-19, according to a statement from the company Friday.

The employee did not display symptoms while working on-site, the company said.

Iowa Ortho is working with public health officials to determine its next steps and will continue its enhanced screening measures and temperature checks of all patients coming in its Des Moines and Clive locations.

"We are proceeding with the utmost caution as the safety and well-being of our patients and staff is our top priority," the statement reads. " ... As essential health care workers, it is critical for our doctors and staff to continue to care for emergent and urgent orthopedic issues."

DHS: Keep kids at home, run fever screenings at day cares

March 22: The Department of Human Services released new guidance Friday, advising parents working from home to keep their children with them. It also directed day-care providers to take the temperatures of children as they arrive each morning, sending home those running fevers.

DHS also encouraged day-care providers to limit the number of people in a room to 10 or fewer; to keep children farther apart; and to report clusters of absences.

Parents and day-care operators across the state are grappling with how to care for their children while also attempting to reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus.

In other states where cases of COVID-19 are more widespread than in Iowa, child care centers have shut down statewide to stem the spread.

► Read the full story here.

First downtown Des Moines hotel closes

March 22: The Des Lux Hotel in Des Moines has closed temporarily because of the COVID-19 outbreak, making it the first downtown Des Moines hotel to close because of the coronavirus.

Other downtown hotels remain open with skeleton staffs and reduced amenities.

► Read the full story here.

Help us report this story

The news surrounding the coronavirus outbreak in Iowa is unlike anything the Register has covered. We'll be updating this story as news develops.

You can read what happened in central Iowa prior to this week regarding COVID-19 here.

You can help us report this story by letting us know how novel coronavirus is affecting your routine, your workplace and your day-to-day family life. We also take requests: Just tell us what you want to know. Send news tips to our online contact form, or call us at 515-284-8065.

More on the outbreak:

More on preventing the virus' spread:

More on the impact:

Iowa sees largest single-day spike in positive tests

March 21: Twenty-three more Iowans have tested positive for COVID-19 — the largest single-day jump in positive cases, according to the Iowa Department of Public Health.

There are now 68 cases of the novel coronavirus across 17 counties in the state.

Des Moines mayor asks residents to leave home only for essentials

March 21: Des Moines Mayor Frank Cownie has asked residents to voluntarily stay home — only leaving for essential items like groceries, medicine and health care — for at least two weeks to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in Iowa's capital city.

He has also waived all enforcement at downtown parking meters, recognizing that downtown residents are likely parking on city streets as they work from home or have been laid off.

Cownie said the decision was made after consulting mayors from across the country who are considering or have implemented similar measures.

"I just think it's best practice and I'm hopeful that other mayors, county officials and other elected officials would follow suit," he said. "I think each day that we don’t take these kinds of measures we're threatened by the spread of this coronavirus pandemic.

"And I just think that advising anything different is a step in the wrong direction."

More: Read the entire news release

Loans available to small businesses

March 21: The United States Small Business Administration has issued a disaster declaration for Iowa, allowing "pandemic-impacted" small businesses to apply for low-interest loans, Gov. Kim Reynolds announced Saturday.

The Economic Injury Disaster Loans offer up to $2 million in assistance to small businesses and private, non-profit organizations that can be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable or other bills.

The interest rate for small businesses is 3.75% for small businesses and for non-profits is 2.75%.

Applications can be made online at DisasterLoan.sba.gov/ela/. For questions, contact the disaster assistance customer service center at 1-800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.

Meskwaki Tribe issues emergency declaration

March 21: The Meskwaki Tribe in Iowa issued an emergency declaration after members of the tribe tested positive of COVID-19 from community transmission on the Meskwaki Settlement, according to a Meskwaki Tribal Council news release.

"Tribal Council hereby determines and directs that all individuals residing on the Settlement shall shelter in place and shall not leave their homes unless going to and from grocery stores, pharmacies, or the Meskwaki Health Clinic effective March 21, 2020; and that all social, community, recreational, leisure, and sporting gatherings and events of more than 10 people are hereby prohibited at all locations and venues on the Meskwaki Settlement; and close the Meskwaki Settlement to outside visitors," the statement reads.

Auditor: Public funds can be used to promote businesses

March 21: Iowa Auditor Rob Sand said Saturday that public funds can be used to "encourage the public to patronize local businesses," such as printing flyers or using newspaper or radio ads that emphasize ordering take-out or delivery from local restaurants.

Such use of public money would generally raise red flags in an audit, however, Sand's office said during the novel coronavirus pandemic, it meets the "public purpose" test as a way to retain jobs.

The auditor says governments should follow three procedures: Record the public purpose prior to spending money, don't show favoritism to particular businesses and avoid conflicts of interest.

Local officials considering other unusual measures should first contact the auditor's office at drew.stensland@aos.iowa.gov.

Iowa National Guard cancels some plans, stands ready to help

March 20: The Iowa National Guard is postponing and canceling planned drill and training to minimize the possible spread of coronavirus, it announced in a news release Friday evening.

It has also closed the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum, the Camp Dodge Wellness Center and the USO. It canceled all armory and facility rentals through May 19.

The National Guard is prepared to send service members to help with coronavirus response "if necessary" to help with things such as storage, transportation and delivery of personal protective gear and providing tents to communities affected by the pandemic. Col. Michael Wunn said they may have orders to carry out those missions next week, but expects it would be a small-scale operation to help with transportation and logistics.

Nine of its service members are currently supporting the State Emergency Operations Center at Joint Force Headquarters in Johnston. The soldiers attached to the operations center are helping to coordinate with other state agencies that are leading the response to the spread of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, Col. Wunn said.

Iowa suspends routine hotel, home bakery and restaurant inspections

March 20: The Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals is temporarily suspending routine inspections of hotels, home bakeries, restaurants, bars, food trucks and other food establishments, it announced in a Friday evening news release.

Reynolds closed all bars and suspended dine-in options at restaurants on Tuesday as part of the state's effort to limit the spread of coronavirus.

The state department is also temporarily suspending inspections of food processing plants. It has a contract with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to inspect those plants, but the FDA ordered it to stop.

It is also waiving late fees for businesses that need to renew their food licenses if the tardiness is during the governor's disaster proclamation. This does not affect current late fees.

Secretary of State reschedules upcoming special elections

March 20: Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate announced on Friday that upcoming special elections in three Iowa counties will be rescheduled for Tuesday, July 7. Concerns over the spread of the novel coronavirus prompted the change, he said in a news release.

The Cedar Falls special election in Black Hawk County, the Craig special election in Plymouth County, and the Board of Supervisors special election in Woodbury County are now set for July 7, which is the first available date, according to release.

Pate said he consulted with county auditors before the decision and noted that under Iowa law the special elections can not be held within four weeks of the June 2 primary. Any absentee ballots that were already cast will be counted on July 7, Pate tweeted.

​​​​​​​Additional COVID-19 case identified; total at 45

March 20: The Iowa Department of Public Health announced Friday it has been notified that another Iowan has tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total number of known cases in Iowa to 45.

According to a news release, the person is between the ages of 41 and 60 and lives in Allamakee County.

Sen. Ernst requests 'immediate action' to help Iowans abroad

March 20: After multiple Iowans stranded in Peru during the coronavirus pandemic expressed frustration with a lack of communication from the U.S. Embassy there, wheels seem to be turning on getting them home.

U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst called for "immediate action" to get those stuck in Peru and elsewhere abroad returned quickly. Ernst's office said a letter she sent to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo urged him to act quickly to ensure the health and safety of these Americans.

Kohl's stores close nationwide

March 20: Beginning March 19, Kohl's announced it was closing all of its stores nationwide through April 1 "to support efforts underway to slow the spread" of coronavirus.

In a statement, the company said it was giving all of its store associates two week's pay to help them get through the period when they won't be receiving regular hourly wages.

The department store chain has four stores in metro Des Moines.

► More:Here's a map of the coronavirus cases in Iowa

Federal assistance available to Iowa cities, counties

March 20: Local governments in Iowa can apply for federal disaster funds to help pay for costs incurred while fighting the spread of COVID-19.

Cities, counties and some nonprofits can now request money from the Federal Emergency Management Agency after President Donald Trump declared a national emergency because of the pandemic last week.

Among other things, FEMA can offer funds to help governments build additional medical shelters, buy medical equipment, disinfect public facilities, pay for emergency operation center costs, procure and distribute food and medicine and cover overtime costs.

“This grant is designed to reimburse costs associated with emergency operations for jurisdictions and specified private nonprofit organizations that are on the front lines of the COVID-19 response,” said Melissa Spencer, deputy coordinator of the Story County Emergency Management Agency in a news release.

According to a fact sheet provided by Polk County officials, the state will receive the FEMA funds before disbursing them to the individual recipients. Governments have 30 days after the disaster declaration — until April 12 — to request the grants.

Iowa suspends property tax fee collections, evictions

March 20: Gov. Kim Reynolds on Friday suspended the collection of some fees on property taxes and halted most home evictions through a series of relaxed regulations aimed at helping Iowans impacted by the coronavirus.

Reynolds' office initially announced she was suspending the collection of property taxes as part of her orders, but her office later corrected that and said it was just for penalties and interest for property taxes.

Reynolds announced the temporary changes through a state public health emergency declaration that went into effect immediately.

The declaration pauses restrictions and regulations from certain statutes and other state rules. That includes suspending the collection of property taxes and related penalties and interest.

The order also suspends some evictions under the Iowa Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, or the Manufactured Home Communities or Mobile Home Parks Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Read more on the proclamation:Iowa suspends property tax fee collection, evictions; relaxes or extends deadlines on regulations in reaction to coronavirus outbreak

CORRECTION: The governor's office initially said Iowa was suspending property taxes, it later corrected that information. Iowa is suspending penalties and interest as it relates to the collection of property taxes. This article has been corrected. ​​​​​​​

UIU will hold virtual commencement ceremony

March 19: The Upper Iowa University in Fayette will now hold their commencement ceremony on May 9 as a virtual ceremony.

"I understand an in-person ceremony is preferred, but I also have no doubt that everyone would agree that the health, safety and welfare of our students, visitors and employees drive this decision," Duffy said. "To provide the graduates their much-deserved recognition, UIU is making arrangements to continue to celebrate this momentous occasion virtually."

As details become available, the school will post them on the commencement web page.

UI dentistry student tests positive for COVID-19

March 19: University of Iowa officials informed campus and community members Thursday that a dentistry student has self-identified as having tested positive for the novel coronavirus. It's the first COVID-19 case reported on campus.

In a letter sent Thursday to the UI community, school officials said others who had contact with the student have been notified of the test results. The student, who was last on campus March 12, also saw a dentistry patient while symptomatic, according to the letter. After learning of the results, school officials informed the Johnson County Public Health department. The student does not live on campus and is self-isolating, according to the letter.

"It is not the practice of Iowa Department of Public Health to notify employers or institutions of a positive case," the letter reads. "The university is able to share this news because the student self-identified, but the university will not be able to report each time a member of the UI community tests positive, moving forward."

Read the full letter and learn of campus resources here.

801 Grand building to undergo deep clean after COVID-19 exposure

March 19: A visitor to Principal Financial Group's downtown Des Moines office tested positive for COVID-19, leading to nearly 20 floors at 801 Grand to go through a "deep clean" starting tomorrow. The building is expected to

According to a notice sent to employees Thursday evening, all workers in the building are being required to self-quarantine for at least 14 days.

"We have alerted our downtown Des Moines employees and other tenants of the building," spokesperson Jane Slusark said in an emailed statement. "We have asked all Principal employees who work in the 801 Grand office complex to self-quarantine. We will also deep clean the Principal floors on Friday. A majority of Principal employees in Des Moines are already working remote and we have significantly limited visitors to our campus. Our top priority remains protecting our employees and their families, while continuing to serve our customers.”

Story County Sheriff's Office to take reports over the phone

March 19: The Story County Sheriff's Office announced it has closed to the general public and is changing how it responds to calls in light of the COVID-19 outbreak, according to a news release Thursday.

Deputies at the sheriff's office dispatch center are asking more questions when someone calls than is standard procedure, and are trying to take reports over the phone whenever possible. If a deputy needs to meet the caller in-person, they ask them to come outside their residence.

Similarly, the office asks for residents to do as much of their business online, by mail or by phone as possible. In-person meetings are by appointment only with the exception of attorney visits, bail bonds and warrant services, according to the release.

The Story County Jail is also taking measures limiting contact: all visitations, programming and classes in the facility have been canceled until April 1.

This doesn't mean all in-person services are suspended; first responders continue to work "around the clock" on public safety issues, according to the news release.

Des Moines Public Schools' Central Campus gets a deep clean

March 19: The Des Moines Public Schools cleaned Central Campus to disinfect surfaces and clean equipment.

While teachers were pitching in, the school's director Tascha Brown found gloves, masks, gowns and other supplies from the school's nursing program, marine biology program, and other science classes. She plans on donating the supplies to Unity Point.

Bridgestone plant to close for two weeks

March 19: Bridgestone is sending about 1,400 workers home from its Des Moines agricultural tire manufacturing plant for two weeks to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, said Steve Vonk, president of U.S. Steelworkers Local 310.

The shutdown begins at 6 a.m. Sunday, Vonk said, adding that Bridgestone is closing all North and South American facilities to protect the health of employees.

"They're really looking out for their employees," he said.

No employee at the Des Moines plant, which makes tires for farm equipment, has tested positive for the coronavirus, Vonk said.

More: New Iowa unemployment figures show slight rise, but don't reflect most coronavirus impact

Hy-Vee says it's adding window panels at checkout to protect employees, customers

Hy-Vee says the grocer is adding temporary window panels at checkouts to help provide an additional layer of protection for its employees and customers.

The panels are being installed at the checkout because it’s the point in the store where customers and employees are in the closest contact, the West Des Moines-based grocery chain said Thursday.

"In the aisles or at our service counters, customers and employees have more flexibility in placing distance between themselves, but the setup of the checkout limits that ability," Hy-Vee said in a news release.

The company said the panels are in place in its Des Moines-area stores, and will be installed in all other Hy-Vee locations over the next few days.

Additionally, Hy-Vee said it will no longer allow customers to bring in reusable bags, effective Friday. The company said it's not always easy to tell how clean the bags are, and stopping their use is another step the chain can take to help prevent the spread of the virus. The bag restriction will be in place until further notice.

Des Moines Public Library offering digital cards

March 19: The Des Moines Public Library tweeted Thursday that it has created digital cards for people who do not yet have a library card to sign up and access thousands of eBooks and Audiobooks. The card also includes streaming video and free digital access to the New York Times.

The library has also added eBooks and Audiobooks that are available to everyone, including those with library cards outside of Des Moines.

People who already have a Des Moines Public Library card do not have to sign up for the digital card, as they already have access to the library's services. People can sign up for the card at www.dmpl.org.

On Twitter, the library also encouraged people needing an internet connection to drive to its branches and use the branches’ WiFi connection from outside. Even though people aren’t in the buildings, the free internet will still be accessible.

Physician assistants have expanded abilities under new law

March 18: Gov. Kim Reynolds on Wednesday signed a bill that will expand the role of physician assistants in Iowa, a move she said will assist the state in the fight against novel coronavirus.

“As the state continues to combat the spread of COVID-19 and the strains it will place on our health care system, this will be yet another tool in our arsenal,” Reynolds said in a news release.

The bill, Senate File 2357, gives physician assistants the full ability to prescribe medicine, allows them to be reimbursed by Medicaid and gives them similar legal protections to other health care professions.

The Iowa Legislature passed the bill last week, prior to suspending the session for 30 days due to the spread of the virus.

University of Iowa closes dorms, cancels commencement ceremonies

March 18: Out of fear of exacerbating the spread of COVID-19, the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, the University of Northern Iowa and Simpson College are closing dorms, canceling spring commencement ceremonies and extending virtual classes through the end of the school year.

University leaders on all three campuses stressed the need for sweeping action in announcing the news.

The University of Iowa announced "sweeping efforts to keep campus safe," including closing dorms, canceling commencement ceremonies and extending virtual classes through the end of the school year. UI officials said the decision was made after receiving word of community spread in Johnson County.

Previously, all classes were scheduled to resume virtually Monday, and in-person classes were expected to start again after two weeks. Now classes will resume as virtual classes on March 30 and continue online for the remainder of the semester.

Dining halls and most residence halls — initially planned to stay open — will close Thursday. Exceptions will be made for students who cannot easily move off-campus.

Officials said they are working to organize an alternative commencement celebration.

More:University of Iowa, Iowa State, Northern Iowa cancel spring commencements, in-person classes for the semester in response to COVID-19's spread​​​​​​​

Nine more COVID-19 cases confirmed; state total to 38

March 18: Nine more Iowans have tested positive for COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by coronavirus, according to a news release Wednesday from Gov. Kim Reynolds' office.

This brings the total cases in Iowa to 38. The nine new cases also represent the largest single-day increase in positive diagnoses of COVID-19 since it was first found in Iowa on March 8. The prior biggest jump was on Tuesday, with six new cases.

The new cases include three residents of Johnson County; two residents of Polk County; two residents of Dallas County; and one resident each from Washington and Winneshiek counties.

Reynolds also announced a news conference for Thursday afternoon.

Sick Iowans denied coronavirus screenings

March 18: There are Iowans frustrated with what they say are testing criteria in the state that are jeopardizing human life in the pandemic. Meanwhile, when tests are completed, the state's public health department is releasing less information about the results than officials in some other states.

The Iowa Department of Public Health, the main agency tasked with overseeing the state's response to coronavirus, did not immediately return a request for comment Wednesday regarding complaints about the lack of testing.

In recent days, the department has provided general information about Iowa's testing capabilities.

Read the complete story here.

IDPH urges groups to donate extra health care supplies

March 18: The Iowa Department of Public Health is urging businesses and organizations to donate health care-related protective devices.

Department officials welcome any kind of personal protective equipment, or PPE, but especially gloves, gowns, eye protection and masks. Donations should be made through the local county public health department or emergency management office.

"This is an unprecedented public health disaster, and stocks of personal protective equipment for health care providers are being used rapidly," said Ken Sharp, division director of Acute Disease Prevention, Emergency Response and Environmental Health. "Any organizations that have extra PPE supplies that aren't immediately needed should consider donating them to help those on the front lines of this disease."

Hospitals in Cedar Rapids have already canceled non-essential surgeries for at least the next month in part to preserve medical supplies. Des Moines hospital officials have also warned about a lack of medical supplies.

Local health department contact information can be found here. County emergency management information can be found here.

Grassley criticized for using the term 'Chinese virus' to describe coronavirus

March 18: U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley set off a round of criticism for his Wednesday morning tweet asking why China would be upset if people call the novel coronavirus the “Chinese virus.”

“I don’t understand why China gets upset bc we refer to the virus that originated there the 'Chinese virus' Spain never got upset when we referred to the Spanish flu in 1918&1919,” Grassley tweeted.

His critics on social media told Iowa's senior senator that the term has contributed to racism towards Asian Americans.

"China is attempting to shield itself from criticism for covering up the gravity of the coronavirus and silencing whistleblowers who tried to warn the world. Despite what the communist Chinese government may want, there’s no hiding that the coronavirus originated in Wuhan, China," spokesperson Michael Zona said in a statement.

President Donald Trump has used the terms “China virus” and “Chinese virus” to refer to the coronavirus and defended the language, saying he doesn’t believe it creates a stigma.

COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the coronavirus, was first linked to an outbreak in Wuhan, China, but has since spread around the world. The World Health Organization has declared the virus a pandemic, meaning a disease that has spread worldwide.

Iowa Board of Regents declares state of emergency amid pandemic

March 18: Following suit with the governor, the Iowa Board of Regents president declared a state of emergency Wednesday and immediately loosened restrictions around sick leave and family leave.

In announcing the state of emergency, the Iowa Board of Regents waived limits on the number of hours of accrued sick leave employees can use to care for an immediate family member and limits on using family leave to care for a child whose school or childcare center closed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more here.

IDOT relaxes expired driver's license, registration rules during emergency

​​​​​​​March 18: The Iowa Department of Transpiration will grant leniency to people with driver's licenses and license plates which expired in the past two months after Gov. Kim Reynolds' Tuesday emergency proclamation to mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Drivers' licenses and license plates which expired on Jan. 17 or later will be considered valid for as long as the emergency declaration lasts, IDOT said Wednesday.

Purchasers of vehicles also will not need to obtain a title and register their vehicle within 30 days during the emergency. People purchasing vehicles from a dealer will not be required to obtain license plates within 45 days, IDOT said.

Driver’s license and ID business is being conducted by appointment only to limit the number of people waiting in line. All non-commercial drive tests will be rescheduled.

Hy-Vee, Fareway dedicate shopping hour for elderly, others vulnerable to coronavirus

March 18: Starting Thursday, Hy-Vee will offer a special shopping hour from 7-8 a.m., seven days a week, for senior citizens ages 60 and older, expectant mothers and those who are considered to be at higher risk for serious illness.

On Tuesday, Fareway said the first hour of operation each day, 8-9 a.m., will be reserved for customers 65 and over, expectant mothers, people with serious medical conditions and "anyone with an underlying medical condition that increases the susceptibility to serious illness from COVID-19."

Both Iowa grocery chains said Tuesday they're cutting store hours to give employees more time to clean and restock shelves. Fareway will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Hy-Vee said its new store hours will be 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week.

DPS says people may be charged with misdemeanors for holding gatherings of 10 or more people

March 18: The Iowa Department of Public Safety said Tuesday night that people may be charged with simple misdemeanors for violating Gov. Kim Reynolds' emergency proclamation to mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak.

A news release from the governor's office said the proclamation will be in place until nearly midnight on March 31.

Under the governor's order, restaurants will end dine-in services but can provide food and beverages through drive-thru, carry-out and delivery. Other facilities such as bars, gyms, theaters and casinos must close.

The prohibition includes events considered social, such as for community, spiritual, religious, recreational, leisure and sports-related purposes.

Under Iowa law, a simple misdemeanor is punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a fine between $65 and $625.

“As this public health event rapidly unfolds, we will continue to partner with law enforcement agencies across the state to uphold and respond to Governor Reynolds’ health and safety directives,” said Stephan Bayens, Iowa Department of Public Safety commissioner in a news release. “Together, we will all see this through.”

Beaverdale family trades books for toilet paper, gloves in little free library

March 17: Bob Meeley's little free library has been a source of joy to those who stumble upon it. Now it's something more.

On March 12, Meeley took the books out of the library and put in goods that have been in short supply since the coronavirus was labeled a pandemic. In the place of stories of adventure and intrigue are now rolls of toilet paper, wet wipes, Emergen-C, and gloves. At the top of the library is a sign that says "Flatten the Curve!" with a chart advocating for proactive measures to avoid stressing the health care system. Read the story here.

► More good news:Cedar Rapids business owners team up to make, give away hand sanitizer

Six new COVID-19 diagnoses brings total Iowa cases to 29

March 17: Six more Iowans have been diagnosed with COVID-19, the respiratory disease that can stem from coronavirus infection. It is the largest single-day jump in cases, and brings the total in Iowa to 29.

According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, three of the cases are residents of Johnson County, and one each from Adair, Blackhawk and Dallas counties. The news release did not specify their ages, genders or if they had traveled to high-risk countries, been in contact with other people identified as infected with coronavirus or if they were instances of community transmission, the term for when a case has no easily identifiable point of origin.

Amy McCoy, a policy adviser for the IDPH, said at this point in the virus' spread, trying to pinpoint the source of the infection isn't as important as mitigating the spread. She emphasized the need for social distancing and other individual actions to prevent its spread.

► MORE:Here's a map of the coronavirus cases in Iowa

Photos: Downtown Des Moinies' Court Avenue closed on St. Patrick's Day

Hy-Vee making changes to stem coronavirus' spread

March 17:Hy-Vee is shortening its hours, closing the dine-in portion of its restaurants and suspending its weekly coupon ads.

The company announced Tuesday the grocer will only be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., saying it will use the extra to more thoroughly clean the store. In compliance with Gov. Kim Reynolds’ order earlier in the day, Hy-Vee will not allow diners to eat in the store. It is also closing the Market Grille bar.

Customers also will not be able to order food directly from Hy-Vee’s Aisle Online program. Any shoppers who want groceries delivered will need to order through apps like Shipt and Door Dash. In its news release, Hy-Vee said this will allow workers to focus on pick-up orders and the needs in the store.

Hy-Vee is suspending the weekly coupon ads in newspapers because it cannot guarantee local stores will have those items in stock. The company already printed some of those ads, which consumers may see this weekend. Hy-Vee says it will still honor those advertised sales.

“This is an unprecedented situation for all of us,” Randy Edeker, Hy-Vee’s chairman, CEO and president, said in a statement. “We’ve never dealt with anything like this before, and we know our customers haven’t, either. We appreciate their patience and loyalty as we navigate these changing times.”

Coronavirus patients discharged from hospitals

March 17: At least two coronavirus patients have been released from Iowa hospitals.

A coronavirus patient who had been hospitalized at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in recent days has been discharged. Molly Rossiter, a spokeswoman for the Iowa City hospital system, confirmed the information Tuesday.

Rossiter did not release any other information about the patient, including whether the patient has recovered.

The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics announced Sunday that its latest patient was admitted. The hospital system is separately treating another patient who tested positive for coronavirus. That patient was admitted on March 11, according to the hospital.

In a news release, it said the individual was infected with the virus through community-acquired transmission, another term for “community spread” that is used to describe infections from an unknown source. At a news conference on Tuesday with Johnson County public health officials, Mercy Iowa City spokeswoman Margaret Reese said its hospital system has been treating two coronavirus patients. One has been discharged, according to Reese. She did not provide more information.

More:As UIHC treats second patient with COVID-19, staff ramp-up screening, start a hotline

​​​​​​​DMARC hands out food to families

Des Moines Area Religious Council gave bags of food to families in the Carver Elementary parking lot. Many area public school children rely on the school system for meals. When the schools closed to prevent the virus from spreading, many lost access to that meal.

Cedar Rapids hospitals suspend non-urgent surgeries

March 17: Elective surgeries are being suspended as of Thursday at four prominent health care providers in Cedar Rapids to both prevent the spread of the coronavirus and preserve medical supplies.

“We’re getting down to critical volumes (of supplies), and it's a little uncertain when it can all be replenished,” Dr. David P. Hart, the chief medical officer and board president of the Physician’s Clinic of Iowa, said. “We don't know how bad this can get, and we just want to be prepared and to make sure we have enough supplies if things do get worse.”

The suspended surgeries include things like carpal tunnel and hip and knee replacement. Urgent procedures will still be done, Hart said. Even so, he expects this will affect hundreds of patients. The suspension is slated for at least a month, with officials revisiting the policy weekly.

The decision was jointly made by officials at UnityPoint Health – St. Luke’s Hospital, Physician’s Clinic of Iowa, Mercy Medical Center and the Surgery Center of Cedar Rapids. Mercy Medical Center is unaffiliated with MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center.

More:Des Moines hospital official warns: 'We do not have enough of supplies' to combat coronavirus

DART waving bus fares

March 17: Starting Tuesday, the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority is waiving bus fares in an effort to curtail the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The metro’s public transportation provider won’t accept cash, bus passes or tickets, DART said in a news release on its website.

Beginning Wednesday, bus riders will also be instructed to get on and off the bus via the rear doors, away from the driver.

DART also encouraged riders to practice social distancing: staying 6 feet apart, remaining at home when sick and only taking the bus to go to work or other location that’s absolutely necessary.

On Sunday, the authority began cleaning its buses daily with an antiviral cleaning agent recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Staff have cleaned the buses at the end of the service day.

Corteva says one employee in Johnston tested positive for coronavirus

March 17: Corteva Agriscience said Tuesday an employee at its Johnston campus has tested positive for COVID-19.

The seed company said it’s identifying and reaching out to people who “had close contact with the impacted employee, advising self-quarantine."

"We have informed the appropriate public health officials, the employee is quarantined, and we are working to support the employee and their family at this time," the company said in a statement.

"Within our offices, following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other local authorities, as well as our own policies, we have taken significant actions to contain any potential spread."

Corteva, the new parent of Pioneer seed, said it's cleaning and disinfecting the site as needed as well. “The health and safety of our employees is our top priority," the company said.

Fareway stores restrict operating hours

March 17: Fareway supermarkets announced that beginning Wednesday, they will limit their hours to 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Saturday because of the coronavirus outbreak.

In a statement, Fareway communications manager Emily Toribio said the reduced hours will allow extra time for cleaning, sanitation and restocking.

In addition, she said the first hour of operation each day, 8 a.m.-9 a.m., will be reserved for customers 65 and over, expectant mothers, people with serious medical conditions and "anyone with an underlying medical condition that increases the susceptibility to serious illness from COVID-19."

​​​​​​​ National Guard deployments to go forward

March 17: Deployments announced by the Iowa National Guard prior to the pandemic will move forward as scheduled, a spokesperson said Tuesday.

About 680 Iowans from two units who received their deployment orders within the last six weeks will leave in May and June, Col. Michael Wunn said.

In late May, the 133 Infantry Battalion out of eastern Iowa — also known as the Ironman Battalion — will deploy about 550 soldiers to Operation Spartan Shield in U.S. Central Command, located in the Middle East, Wunn said.

Coming from armories in seven communities — Charles City, Davenport, Dubuque, Iowa City, Iowa Falls, Oelwein and Waterloo — this deployment is expected to last a year. Their mission will still involve security and “force protection operations,” as a news release previously announced.

In June, two troops from the 113th Cavalry Regiment will deploy about 130 soldiers to Operation Enduring Freedom in U.S. Africa Command.

Also lasting a year, this deployment will include 90 soldiers from Le Mars, Iowa, and 40 from Johnson. These troops will help with “military operations, exercises and security cooperation activities on the African continent, its island nations and surrounding waters,” as a news release previously announced.

Full-time staff members of the Iowa National Guard are following travel restrictions announced Monday by the Department of Defense, which limits military and personal travel to just “mission essential” or personal hardship trips, including funerals and family emergencies. Traditional guardsmen are not subject to the personal travel restrictions, but the Guard has significantly restricted training, conferences and any events that can be delayed or postponed.

“This is a very fluid situation,” Wunn said, adding that they are making decisions every day based on recommendations from the Iowa Department of Public Health, the CDC and the Department of Defense.

“We will protect the health of the force and make sure they are being taken care of while doing what we can to stop the spread,” Wunn said. “And we will balance that with our focus on mission readiness in case we need to support the Governor as well as the strict timeline our forces are on to prepare for deployment.”

The Iowa Gold Star Military Museum and the Wellness Center at Camp Dodge will be closed to the public by the end of the day Tuesday, though Camp Dodge will remain open, Wunn said.

The Guard is currently looking at events scheduled to take place at armories across the state and accessing next steps with organizers.

Reynolds prohibits gatherings of more than 10 people, closes theaters, casinos, restaurants, bars

March 17: Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds is closing restaurants, bars and other recreational facilities in Iowa for two weeks in an effort to restrict the spread of coronavirus.

Reynolds made the announcement in a news release Tuesday. The order goes into effect at noon and continues until March 31.

The news release says the governor has issued a State of Public Health Disaster Emergency, a proclamation designation that allows her to take these actions.

Restaurants will be able to provide food through drive-through, carry-out and delivery only. Bars and other facilities like gyms, theaters and casinos will close.

Iowa lawmakers grant Gov. Kim Reynolds expanded power

March 17: The Iowa Legislature has suspended its session for 30 days after passing legislation early Tuesday morning to keep the government running and grant Gov. Kim Reynolds expanded powers to combat the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The bill, unanimously passed by lawmakers just after midnight, grants Reynolds, a Republican, increased ability to transfer spending between state agencies and departments, giving her flexibility to allocate funds where needed. It also allows her to tap 10% of the state's $200 million Economic Emergency Fund to deal with the coronavirus.

The bill also waives schools' requirement to make up class days canceled as a result of the virus and passes a supplemental appropriation for some state programs, including $525,000 for processing COVID-19 test kits at the State Hygienic Lab at the University of Iowa.

More:Iowa lawmakers grant Gov. Kim Reynolds expanded power as they suspend legislative session due to coronavirus

More:Iowa waives 4 weeks from school year as classes stop for coronavirus

Urbandale Community School District employee tests positive for COVID-19

March 16: An employee of the Karen Acres Elementary School in Urbandale has tested positive for COVID-19 and is currently in quarantine.

The employee, who is not being identified by the school district out of concerns for confidentiality, has sought medical attention, according to a notification from the Urbandale Community School District. The notice did not specify the person’s condition.

The district also announced that all of its schools would be closed beginning March 16 for four weeks, adhering to the recommendation from Gov. Kim Reynolds. The closure includes cancellation of all school-related programming, activities, athletics, Adventuretime and community education classes. Under current plans, students would return to school on Monday, April 13.

There have been 23 known cases of coronavirus in Iowa. Some of the cases involve people who do not know how they contracted the virus, and some of those infected have had to be hospitalized. COVID-19 is the respiratory illness caused by the virus. It is unclear if this employee is part of that 23 or if the person is an additional case.

More:Urbandale district employee tests positive for coronavirus

Des Moines-area YMCAs completely shut down for 15 days

March 16: The six membership branches and the Y-Camp serving the greater Des Moines area will shut down for 15 days, officials announced Monday night.

No coronavirus cases have been linked to a YMCA facility, but its leadership is following federal, state and local health officials' guidance to try to slow its spread, Ruth Comer, the YMCA's vice president for marketing and communications wrote in an email.

It had previously canceled all group fitness classes, personal training sessions, youth programming and facility rentals and suspended Learn and Play centers and guest passes.

Full-time staff will remain employed during the closure. President and CEO of YMCA of Greater Des Moines Leisha Barcus asked members to pay dues and register for future programs as they're able to help it operate once the crisis passes.

Des Moines Water Works suspends water shutoffs

March 16: Des Moines Water Works, which provides drinking water to most of the Des Moines metro area, announced Monday that it would stop shutting off the water service of delinquent ratepayers.

Water needs to be available to help residents sanitize, which will hopefully slow down the spread of the novel coronavirus, the utility said in a news release. The suspension is temporary.

Des Moines Water Works’ water remains safe to drink, the release said. COVID-19 hasn’t been detected in drinking water, and water works’ treatment practices kill viruses. There’s also no need to boil tap water.

The U.S Environmental Protection Agency said, “Americans can continue to use and drink water from their tap as usual.”

Starting Tuesday, water works will also prohibit walk-in customers at its general office building on George Flagg Parkway. In-home visits, except for emergencies, will also be suspended.

Water customers can pay online at dmww.com, by phone at (515) 283-8700, at the office’s dropbox, by mail or at pay stations at local Hy-Vee or Wal-Mart stores.

The utility has also started “stockpiling” chemicals, repair parts and other equipment to ensure the production and distribution of safe drinking water, the news release said.

Iowa DOT may make customers wait in cars, encourages appointments

March 16: The Iowa Department of Transportation is encouraging people to postpone in-person services and, if unavoidable, for customers to make an appointment before visiting.

Many services, including renewals, address changes and certified copies of driving records, are likely available online. To view those services, or make an appointment, visit https://mymvd.iowadot.gov/. Customers can also call 515-244-8725.

Officials hope appointments will reduce the number of people waiting at the service centers. Staff will watch the size of groups in the waiting areas and may ask people to come back another time or wait in their vehicles if the room becomes crowded, according to a news release.

Staff will also ask customers questions designed to evaluate their risk of exposure to the coronavirus and risk of exposure to other customers. If someone is determined to be a “heightened risk,” they will be asked to delay their visit. The news release did not specify what criteria will be used to make that judgment.

DOT staff are also instructed to increase how often they clean and disinfect the facilities.

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