Allamakee County Public Health is asking for everyone’s help in battling the escalating COVID-19 crisis in our community

The number of positive COVID-19 cases in Allamakee County has dramatically risen with over 175 new cases in the past two weeks. This, in turn, has led to increasing hospitalization numbers in our county. The number of admissions for many hospitals in northeast Iowa are at or nearing capacity. There is a desperate need to flatten the curve, slow the spread and protect our community and its vulnerable populations. Healthcare facilities throughout the tri-state area are urging their communities to step up and assist in the mitigation effort. It is going to require more than just our medical professionals to fight this fight. It will take each and every one of us doing our part to decrease these skyrocketing statistics and help lessen the immense strain on our healthcare systems.

We are pleading with the citizens of Allamakee County to protect themselves and each other during these unprecedented times. Face masks are one of the best tools we have for preventing the spread of COVID-19 until a vaccine is available. “The pandemic in Iowa is the worst it has ever been,” Governor Reynolds stated on Monday evening, adding that the state’s healthcare system is being “pushed to the brink”. The governor also issued a proclamation that all people aged two and older must wear a mask or other face covering when inside an indoor space that is open to the public and within six feet of individuals who are not members of their household for 15 minutes or longer.

Allamakee County and the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) are overwhelmed conducting COVID-19 follow-up investigations. Due to the increase in positive test results and limited staff, the investigation follow-up process at both the county and state levels is behind. If you are not receiving timely guidance and/or have questions, call 2-1-1 at any time. If you are able to, we are also asking for your help in notifying close contacts of potential exposures so they are able to quarantine at home for 14 days following the exposure. You may also call Allamakee County Public Health at 563-568-5660, Monday through Friday.  

COVID-19 is here and it is not stopping. Many area businesses have been affected, as well as our schools and long-term care organizations. We are not alone, as surrounding counties and neighboring states are seeing the same alarming effects. Throughout this holiday season, consider limiting your gatherings to those only residing in your household. Larger gatherings could have detrimental effects on you and your family and friends. Make the choice to protect your loved ones now, so that your family is able to enjoy many holidays to come.