Iowans urged to self-isolate if returning from countries affected by coronavirus

Iowa (KWQC) - Iowans who have recently returned from countries affected by the new coronavirus, COVID-19, are urged to self-isolate. Officials with the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) made the announcement Tuesday.

© Provided by Davenport-R Island-Moline KWQC Iowans who have recently returned from countries affected by the new coronavirus, COVID-19, are urged to self-isolate. (MGN Image)

On Monday, IDPH health officials said five people in the state were being monitored but that they were not showing any symptoms.

IDPH is asking those who return from countries where COVID-19 is spreading to "voluntarily self-isolate for 14 days following their return."

Areas in this travel notice currently include:

- China

- Hong Kong

- Iran

- Italy

- Japan

- South Korea

Those who have returned from the affected areas are asked to stay home and monitor their symptoms for 14 days. If they are to become ill and need to seek medical attention, officials say they should call ahead to their doctor's office and inform them of their recent travel.

“We recognize staying at home for 14 days is an inconvenience, but it is an important way to limit the spread of a variety of illnesses, including COVID-19. The department urges employers to work with staff to consider flexible leave policies and tele-working options,” said IDPH Medical Director Dr. Caitlin Pedati.

There are currently no confirmed cases in the state of Iowa, however, experts are predicting there will be a community spread.

"The proactive actions announced today by the department can help delay and/or control this potential spread," officials said in a release.

There are things all Iowans can do to help prevent the spread of all viruses, including influenza and COVID-19:

• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your upper arm/elbow

• Clean your hands frequently with soap and water

• Contain germs by staying home when ill

Residents should prepare for the potential of COVID-19 in the same way they prepare for severe weather or other events that could disrupt their normal routine. This includes making a plan and discussing it with your family.

Symptoms of the COVID-19 in people who have been exposed can include fever, cough and shortness of breath. The symptoms may appear in as few as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure. Reported illnesses have ranged from people with little to no symptoms to people being severely ill and dying.

You can find more information regarding COVID-19 at this link.

MORE INFO: Click here to read what you need to know regarding COVID-19.