Officials confirm first COVID-19 death in Iowa

The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) learned late Tuesday of the first death associated with novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the Office of the Governor announced.

“Our hearts are heavy with the first loss of an Iowan to COVID-19. The thoughts and prayers of our state are with the family during this difficult time,” said Gov. Reynolds. “I continue to urge all Iowans to protect their health and the health of others, especially older individuals and those with chronic health conditions who are most at risk. We all have a role to play in limiting the spread of this virus.”

The individual, an older adult, 61-80 years of age, was a resident of Dubuque County.

The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) has also been notified of 21 additional positive cases of Iowans with COVID-19, it was announced Wednesday, for a total of 145 positive cases. A total of 2,578 negative tests have been reported to date, which includes testing reported by the State Hygienic Lab and other labs.

According to IDPH, the locations and age ranges of the 21 individuals include:

  • Allamakee County 1 middle-aged adults (41-60 years)
  • Benton County, 2 middle-aged adults (41-60 years)
  • Hancock County, 1 middle-aged adults (41-60 years)
  • Johnson County, 4 adults (18-40 years), 1 middle-aged adult (41-60 years), 1 older adult (61-80 years)
  • Linn County, 1 middle-aged adult (41-60 years)
  • Muscatine County, 1 adult (18-40 years)
  • Polk County, 3 older adults (61-80 years)
  • Poweshiek County, 2 older adults (61-80 years)
  • Scott County, 2 middle-aged (41-60 years)
  • Washington County, 2 adults (18-40 years)

A status report of monitoring and testing of COVID19 in Iowa is provided by IDPH and can be found here. In addition, a public hotline has been established for Iowans with questions about COVID-19. The line is available 24/7 by calling 2-1-1 or 1-800-244-7431.

The state of Iowa has started sharing the number of negative tests conducted at outside labs and is providing additional information on the conditions of those infected with COVID-19.

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