Three cases of coronavirus have been confirmed in Iowa

All three individuals were part of a cruise in Egypt.  The affected individuals are recovering and none were hospitalized.  Two of the individuals had underlying conditions.  One person was middle aged (41-60) and the other two were older adults (61-80).

State Epidemiologist Dr. Caitlin Pedati said, "These cases are an important reminder that all Iowans need to help prevent the spread of illness by washing hands frequently, staying home when ill, and covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue."

No additional or special precautions are recommended for Iowans beyond the simple daily precautions to combat the flu, including washing hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when ill. It is currently flu and respiratory disease season and IDPH recommends getting the flu vaccine. Influenza activity is widespread in Iowa and as long as flu viruses are circulating, it's not too late to receive the vaccine.

For more information about coronavirus, visit https://idph.iowa.gov/Emerging-Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus. In addition, a public hotline (2-1-1) has been established for Iowans with questions about COVID-19. The line is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week.