Telehealth Options for Iowans
Issued 04/17/2020
Iowa health insurers and healthcare providers may have developed additional telehealth
capabilities, enabling their patients to be medically assessed remotely, without overwhelming
Iowa healthcare facilities.
Iowans can check their health insurance or healthcare provider’s website or call for guidance
on how to access their telehealth systems. Examples of known telehealth options include:
Wellmark Virtual Visits
https://www.wellmark.com/blue-at-work/tags/virtual-visits
Amerigroup Iowa 24/7 Nurse Help-Line
https://www.myamerigroup.com/ia/care/care-options.html
Iowa Total Care 24/7 Nurse Help-Line
https://www.mercyone.org/find-a-service-or-specialty/virtual-visits/
Unity Point Health Virtual Care
https://www.unitypoint.org/clinics/virtual-care.aspx
MercyOne Virtual Care
https://www.mercyone.org/find-a-service-or-specialty/virtual-visits/
University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics
https://medcom.uiowa.edu/theloop/news/video-visits-now-available-to-help-diagnose-flu-orcovid-19-concerns
The Iowa eClinic Virtual Care
https://www.iowaclinic.com/for-patients/eclinic/virtual-care/
CHI Health Virtual Care
https://www.chihealth.com/en/services/virtual-care.html
Medical Associates Information on Telehealth Visits and Nurse Help-Line
https://www.mahealthcare.com/insurance/member/telehealth-virtual-visits-for-members
Genesis Convenient CareNow Virtual Care
https://www.genesishealth.com/care-treatment/convenientcare-emergencyservices/convenient-care-/convenient-carenow-online/
Grand River Medical Group Acute Care Clinic – Virtual Visit
https://www.grandrivermedicalgroup.com/find-a-location/locations-profile/grmg-acuteclinic/?searchId=7b9839ea-c780-ea11-a82b-000d3a61151d&sort=13&page=1&pageSize=10
Physicians Clinics of Iowa Televisit
https://www.pcofiowa.com/patients-visitors/televisit/
Knoxville Hospital & Clinics Mobile Express Care

Home

Crescent Community Health Center
https://crescentchc.org/what-we-do/our-services/telehealth-services.html
Primary Health Care
https://phciowa.org/virtual-visits-at-primary-health-care/
Community Health Center
https://www.chcqca.org/chc-iconnect-virtual-care
Community Health Centers of Southern Iowa
http://chcsi.org/Locations/VirtualVisits.aspx
Peoples Community Health Clinic

Telehealth

For Immediate Release

Re: Winneshiek County Development Secures Federal Funding for Two New Projects

Contact:

Stephanie Fromm, Winneshiek County Development and Tourism

563-382-6061

director@winneshiekdevelopment.org

Winneshiek County Development and Tourism (WCDT) announced Friday that they had secured federal Rural Business Development Grants (RBDG) for two new projects. WCDT Executive Director Stephanie Fromm said that WCDT was awarded an RBDG grant from USDA Rural Development to provide technical assistance, including architectural services and planning, for a new Northeast Iowa Child Care and Discover Center. “The award will help us double our local contributions for the project and give us an opportunity to develop high quality plans for the proposed facility.”

Fromm said WCDT has been exploring the potential for development of the new facility for several months in response to the shortage of child care in Winneshiek County and Northeast Iowa. She noted that several factors influenced development of the project, among them reports from several local businesses and employers who are having difficulty recruiting workers because potential employees can’t find daycare. Daycares have reported long waiting lists and, as regulations have increased, several in-home daycares in the county have closed. Several local businesses provided letters of support for the project.

“We understand and support our existing child care facilities. In fact, development of the new facility is just one strategy we are working on to meet the need and strengthen our workforce. WCDT recognizes that we can’t solve every aspect of the problem, but we do believe that we can turn the challenges we have into opportunities. To do that we will implement a multi-faceted approach that considers children first, recognizes that different families will select different types of child care options for their children, and maximizes local resources to benefit as many children as possible.”

Fromm went on to note that WCDT’s goal is to build on existing nonprofit, private, and public facilities and programs while creating new spaces for child care, child discovery and creative play. WCDT has helped licensed child care facilities maximize their opportunities and secure funding for programming and facility upgrades. WCDT is seeking additional partnerships and funding to help unlicensed child care facilities become licensed if they desire and working with partners and legislators to increase awareness about child care costs, wage issues, and infrastructure needs.

The second RBDG was awarded to Northeast Iowa Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) to work with WCDT to conduct research and planning to explore the potential for the North Winneshiek School to be developed into a Business Enterprise Center. The application was completed as a joint effort between WCDT and RC&D. Fromm noted, “Although we could only apply for one RBDG a year, we felt strongly that the window of opportunity for the North Winn School to be developed into a Business Enterprise Center was something we didn’t want to miss. We didn’t want to have to pick between the two projects. Our partnership with the RC&D made it possible for us to make progress on both projects at the same time.”

WCDT and the RC&D will use the grant funding and local matching dollars to conduct a site assessment, feasibility study, develop a business plan, and work with local entrepreneurs, businesses, and partners to develop a plan for how to move forward with use of the North Winn School as an Enterprise Center will foster business development far into the future. Josh Dansdill, RC&D Grants Specialist and Business Development Planner, worked with the WCDT team to develop the application from the RC&D. He said, “When Lora Friest, Stephanie Fromm, and I toured the building with Mark Lane, Superintendent of Decorah School District, we could see the potential immediately. I have visited and studied enterprise centers throughout the Midwest and am excited to have the opportunity to be part of the project.”

Fromm noted that several citizens from the northern part of the county had contacted her asking for help to consider uses for the vacant facility and that during development of the grant, several entrepreneurs and small business owners provided letters of support. “We know there is support for the project and that the RC&D will be a wonderful partner. They have a great deal of experience with business planning, feasibility studies and working with entrepreneurs. They have also completed extensive research on enterprise centers, so we are very excited to work with them to complete this project over the next year,” said Fromm.

Fromm noted that local contributions made to WCDT or the RC&D for either project will be tax deductible and will be doubled through the grants. “These federal dollars give people a chance to double our local investment in our children and grandchildren, as well as to foster business development in Winneshiek County through an exciting new venture”.

The Professional Beauty Association is offering a COVID-19 Relief Fund to help support licensed beauty professionals who have not been able to work or are experiencing financial hardships due to the COVID-19 outbreak. This fund will provide $500 for short-term immediate needs such as food and bills. Applications will be reviewed on a daily basis Monday through Friday, and they will be funded using a lottery system as donations are received so that all eligible applicants have an equal chance of receiving aid. Eligible licensure types include cosmetologist, barber, hair, esthetics, instructor, make-up, massage therapy, nail tech, and specialty. Learn more and apply here: https://www.probeauty.org/covid-relief-fund-application

In light of the recent freeze on new applications for the PPP & EIDL, and with very few successful State grant awardees, we wanted to share some other resources that may be of interest to you.  We have compiled the full list on our website

http://www.howard-county.com/iowa/covid19-information.html

Press Release:  April 18, 2020

Contact:  Brenda Pohlman bpohlman@co.fillmore.mn.us

Fillmore County Still Seeking Donations for COVID-19 Response

Fillmore County Public Health is still accepting sewn masks, sewn gowns, and sewing materials to address COVID-19 response needs.  The goal is to obtain 5,000 sewn masks and 500 sewn gowns.  As of April 18, 617 masks and 11 gowns have been donated and distributed to areas of community need.  Sewing materials accepted include cotton cloth and elastic.  See the Fillmore County Public Health website for a pattern and instructions for making twenty-four masks at a time.  Gown patterns are now available onsite from Fillmore County Public Health.

Materials are welcome Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 3 PM.  Place donations and forms in the gray tote outside of the upper level of the Fillmore County Office Building located at 902 Houston Street NW, Preston, MN  55965.  Please call 507-765-2642 with questions.  Thanks for your help and support!

News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 17, 2020

Contact: Erin Berns at Veterans Memorial Hospital 568-3411

Public Health Proclamation Tightens Restrictions for Allamakee County Residents

Governor Reynolds issued a proclamation April 16, 2020, tightening restrictions for Allamakee County residents to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in the county and the state.

“Our region of the state has reached the threshold for which extra measures are needed,” said Allamakee County Public Health Director Lisa Moose. “This threshold includes regional measures of the rate of COVID-19 illness and hospitalization, long-term care outbreaks and the percentage of the population age 65 and older.”

In addition to Allamakee County, the affected region includes Benton, Black Hawk, Bremer, Buchanan, Clayton, Delaware, Dubuque, Fayette, Grundy, Howard, Jones, Linn and Winneshiek counties.

The proclamation is in effect until April 30:

• Weddings, funerals, and other spiritual and religious gatherings may be held ONLY if there are 10 or fewer people AND all people stay at least 6 feet away from each other.
• All other social, community, recreational, leisure and sporting gatherings of any size with people outside of the same household are prohibited.
• Any person leaving their home must stay at least 6 feet away from anyone who does not live in their household whenever possible.
• Employers must evaluate if employees can work from home, and take steps to enable work from home for those who can.
• All businesses who remain open must take reasonable measures to protect employees and the public, including employee screening, social distancing and increased cleaning.

These restrictions apply to anyone in the affected counties, whether they live there, work there (and live in another country), or are visiting.

To read the governor’s proclamations, visit http://coronavirus.iowa.gov/. The Allamakee County Health Department continues to work closely with IDPH, and other state and local partners to respond to this ongoing pandemic.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 17, 2020
Kristina Wiltgen, Executive Director
Fareway DonatesMore Than $200,000 to Support
Small Businesses and Their Employees
Fareway Stores, Inc. recently announced a $200,000 donation to the Iowa Chamber of Commerce Executives
(ICCE). The donation provided for $1,000 or more in gift cards to ICCE chamber of commerce members in the
communities Fareway serves.
ICCE distributed the Fareway gift cards to its chamber of commerce members. The Decorah Area Chamber of
Commerce received $2,000 in gift cards, which will be distributed to employees of local businesses.
“Local chambers have the pulse in each community and how best to serve its small business members during this
time of need,” said Fareway President and CEO Reynolds W. Cramer. “We hope this relief reduces some of the
stress our community business partners are facing.”
A Google Form has been created to allow local businesses to nominate an employee that would benefit from
Fareway’s gift. “The nomination period will end on Friday, April 24th at 12 p.m.” said DACC Executive Director
Kristina Wiltgen. “We know many employees and their families are facing hardship due to changes in employment.
We want to get the gift cards to them as soon as possible.”
“Our members work diligently every day to strengthen communities throughout Iowa,” said ICCE Executive
Director Lane Till. “Through this generous donation from Fareway, our members will have the ability to help
support the small businesses that create the heart of each of their communities”.
Follow the movement on Facebook with #FarewayShopsLocal and visit or follow the Decorah Area Chamber of
Commerce on Facebook and online at DecorahAreaChamber.com. Call 563.382.3990 for more information.
About Fareway: Fareway Stores, Inc. is a growing Midwest grocery company currently operating 123 stores in a sixstate region. Fareway’s mission is to provide the highest quality products, while treating customers like family, and
valuing dedicated employees. Its stores are known for their unmatched, full-service meat departments, farm-fresh
produce, and exceptional to-your-car customer service. Fareway is a family-owned business, recognized as a top
10 employer in Iowa, and has more than 12,000 total employees. Visit Fareway.com for more information.
About the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce: The DACC is a member based organization serving approximately
350 members throughout the Decorah area. Our mission is to be the trusted resource in the business community
for advocacy, collaboration, and education.

UPDATE – April 17, 2020

We regret to announce, after much deliberation, the Board of Directors and Staff of the Laura Ingalls Wilder Park & Museum have made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Laura Days festivities (originally scheduled for June 27/28) in consideration of everyone’s health and safety.

The Laura Ingalls Wilder Park & Museum will remain closed until further notice, due to the COVID-19 virus. We hope to open in the near future but will continue to monitor the situation.

Further updates will be posted on Facebook (Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum – Burr Oak, Iowa) and on our website (www.lauraingallswilder.us)

https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/WIGOV/2020/04/16/file_attachments/1428995/EMO28-SaferAtHome.pdf

Click the link for verbiage of the new mitigation orders

https://governor.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/documents/Public%20Health%20Proclamation%20-%202020.04.16%20-%20Region%206.pdf?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

April 16, 2020

CONTACT:  Erin Berns at Veterans Memorial Hospital  568-3411

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Rapid COVID-19 Testing Will Soon Be Available Locally-

Testing Must Still be Ordered by Medical Provider

Waukon is one of the cities in Iowa that has received the Abbott ID Now instrument for rapid COVID-19 testing from the State of Iowa.  Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waukon received the machine because testing is not widely available in this area.  This machine will soon be used for testing in long term care facilities, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and residential care facilities within a 30 mile radius of Waukon.  These tests must still be ordered by a provider or the State Epidemiologist.

These tests are designated to be used for high priority specimens requiring rapid result and when action will be taken based on the results in these facilities.  At this time, this machine will not be used for any other reason than testing at the above facilities.  The current COVID-19 tests for people outside of these facilities are still sent to the State of Iowa or Gundersen Health Center for results.

Veterans Memorial Hospital Laboratory staff is trained and ready to do rapid testing by direction from the State of Iowa.

###

April 15, 2020

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Mary Marx, Director of Marketing & Communications

563-387-3020 ● marxm@winmedical.org

WMC acknowledges volunteers during National Volunteer Week

Winneshiek Medical Center’s 100 active volunteers are present in many areas, including the information desk, hospice, Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP), Auxiliary Gift Shop, and at special events.  Additionally, volunteers provide hand-crafted items for patients, help with mailings, share their gardening talents and provide for other needs, as requested.

Karla Bakken, volunteer coordinator at WMC, says, “Even during the COVID-19 pandemic when regular volunteer services are paused, our team of volunteers continues to inspire hope through their spirit of giving.  Some are making masks, others helped assemble a gift for staff; still others continue to help with Medicare questions through telephone appointments.”

National Volunteer Week is April 19-25, 2020.  Bakken says, “Although we cannot thank our volunteers in person right now, our circumstances do not diminish our appreciation for them and their selfless work.”

To learn more about volunteer opportunities call the Winneshiek Medical Center Volunteer Services department at 563-387-3036.

-30-

Cutline: Volunteers Kate Hovden (left) and Pat Billet (right) volunteer at the Auxiliary Valentine Day sale event.

Five things today: (1) Artist Relief Fund, (2) Farmer Relief Fund, (3) New Small Business Relief Fund, (4) CARES Act Stimulus Check Update, (5) IEDA Grant Update———————————————————————

(1)

The Iowa Arts & Culture Emergency Relief Fund provides short-term financial relief to those in the arts, cultural and creative industries most impacted by state disaster declarations, natural disasters, and other forms of emergencies. It provides one-time funding of $1,000 for eligible Iowa artists and $2,500 for eligible Iowa arts nonprofits. The application for the first round of funding opens today (April 13th, 2020) and closes on Friday (April 17th, 2020). Due to the extent of this public health emergency, grant requests are anticipated to exceed available funding. Should additional funding become available, the application period may reopen. However, applying quickly is highly recommended. Learn more and apply here: https://iowaculture.gov/arts/grants/iowa-arts-emergency-relief-fund

———————————————————————

(2)

American Farmland Trust’s Farmer Relief Fund will award farmers with cash grants of up to $1,000 each to help them weather the current storm of market disruptions caused by the coronavirus crisis. Eligible applicants include any small and mid-size direct-market producers. These are defined as producers with annual gross revenue of between $10,000 and $1 million from sales at farmers markets and/or direct sales to restaurants, caterers, schools, stores, or makers who use farm products as inputs. Learn more and apply here: https://farmland.org/farmer-relief-fund/?eType=EmailBlastContent&eId=b4dec3c2-c1b8-4aa2-b782-05fe7af2c3b7

———————————————————————

(3)

The Iowa Small Business Relief Fund (this is different than the similarly-named program offered by Iowa Economic Development Authority) is dedicated to helping small business owners impacted by COVID-19 by offering grants ranging from $500-$3,500. Note: businesses can not be recipients of Federal and State small business relief dollars. To be eligible, businesses are required to have 1-7 employees prior to March 17, 2020, be based in Iowa, complete the online application, provide a 3 month P & L statement or bank statements, and provide a 2019 and 2020 Q1 Revenue. Funds can be used for business expenses including rent, insurance, utilities, delivery services, etc. Learn more and apply here: https://www.empowermoney.org/smallbusinessrelief

———————————————————————

(4)

The $1,200 stimulus checks from the CARES Act have started going out to the public. The IRS has stated that people who already have direct deposit information on file from their tax records will receive payments in the coming week. A U.S. Treasury spokesperson said that up to 70 million Americans will be paid by April 15th. For those without direct deposit, paper checks will arrive by mail any time between now and early September. The IRS is going to be launching a new “Get My Payment” tool in mid-April to check your payment status and confirm your payment type (which will allow you to enter your bank account information for direct deposit if you don’t care to wait for a paper check). If you don’t normally file taxes and are curious about how to receive your stimulus money, the IRS has guidance for you in their “Non-Filer” section. You can learn more about everything I’ve said above and watch for updates here: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payments

———————————————————————

(5)

Notifications were made last week for recipients of the IEDA Iowa Small Business Relief Grant. All applicants that were awarded a grant have received notification. At this time, all available funds have been expended. If additional funding is allocated, awards will be made from the current pool of applicants. IEDA will not open a new round of applications. You can see more info and view a list of grantees here: https://www.iowaeconomicdevelopment.com/aspx/general/dynamicpage.aspx?id=205

———————————————————————

—

USDA Announces Loan Maturity for Marketing Assistance Loans

Now Extended to 12 Months

Provides Producers with Marketing Flexibilities Amid COVID-19 Uncertainties

WASHINGTON, April 9, 2020 – Agricultural producers now have more time to repay Marketing Assistance Loans (MAL) as part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s implementation of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act of 2020. The loans now mature at 12 months rather than nine, and this flexibility is available for most commodities.

“Spring is the season when most producers have the biggest need for capital, and many may have or are considering putting commodities under loan. Extending the commodity loan maturity affords farmers more time to market their commodity and repay their loan at a later time,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue. “We are extremely pleased that USDA can offer these marketing flexibilities at this critical time for the agriculture industry and the nation.”

Effective immediately, producers of eligible commodities now have up to 12 months to repay their commodity loans. The maturity extension applies to nonrecourse loans for crop years 2018, 2019 and 2020. Eligible open loans must in good standing with a maturity date of March 31, 2020, or later or new crop year (2019 or 2020) loans requested by September 30, 2020. All new loans requested by September 30, 2020, will have a maturity date 12 months following the date of approval.

The maturity extension for current, active loans will be automatically extended an additional 3 months. Loans that matured March 31 have already been automatically extended by USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA). Producers who prefer a nine-month loan will need to contact their local FSA county office. Loans requested after September 30, 2020, will have a term of nine months.

Eligible commodities include barley, chickpeas (small and large), corn, cotton (upland and extra-long staple), dry peas, grain sorghum, honey, lentils, mohair, oats, peanuts, rice (long and medium grain), soybeans, unshorn pelts, wheat, wool (graded and nongraded); and other oilseeds, including canola, crambe, flaxseed, mustard seed, rapeseed, safflower, sunflower seed, and sesame seed. Seed cotton and sugar are not eligible.

About MALs

Placing commodities under loan provides producers interim financing to meet cash flow needs without having to sell their commodities when market prices are low and allows producers to store production for more orderly marketing of commodities throughout the year.

These loans are considered nonrecourse because the commodity is pledged as loan collateral, and producers have the option of delivering the pledged collateral to the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) for repayment of the outstanding loan at maturity.

MAL Repayment

Under the new maturity provisions, producers can still repay the loan as they would have before the extension:

• repay the MAL on or before the maturity date;

• upon maturity by delivering or forfeiting the commodity to CCC as loan repayment; or

• after maturity and before CCC acquires the farm-stored commodity by repaying the outstanding MAL principle and interest.

Marketing Loan Gains

A Marketing Loan Gain occurs when a MAL is repaid at less than the loan principal. If market gain is applicable during the now-extended loan period, producers can receive a gain on the repayment made before the loan matures.

For more information on MALs, contact the nearest FSA county office. USDA Service Centers, including FSA county offices, are open for business by phone appointment only, and field work will continue with appropriate social distancing. While program delivery staff will continue to come into the office, they will be working with producers by phone and using online tools whenever possible. All Service Center visitors wishing to conduct business with the FSA, Natural Resources Conservation Service, or any other Service Center agency are required to call their Service Center to schedule a phone appointment. More information can be found at farmers.gov/coronavirus.

#

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

Allamakee County Specific COVID-19 Statistics

 Through April 13, 2020

Total Cases to date                                                       23

Cases Requiring Hospitalization                                  5

Deaths due to COVID                                                  1

Recovered/ Off Isolation                                              15

Number of tests sent to State Hygienic Lab ***                   63

Number of negative tests processed at SHL                46

Number of tests pending at SHL                                 0

***We are not able to track the number of negative or pending tests done on Allamakee residents at reference labs such as Gundersen, Mayo, University of Iowa, etc… All positive tests done are reported to IDPH (Iowa Dept. of Public Health) who notifies Allamakee County Public Health to initiate follow up.***

Recommendations for people with illness

DO NOT GO TO WORK IF YOU ARE ILL. REMAIN IN YOUR HOME UNLESS YOU ARE SEEKING MEDICAL ATTENTION. PLEASE CALL AHEAD IF YOU ARE SEEKING MEDICAL ATTENTION.

Stay home and isolate from others in the house until:

• You have had no fever for at least 72 hours (that is 3 full days of no fever without the use of fever reducing medications)
• Other symptoms have improved (for example, when your cough or shortness of breath have improved)
• At least 7 days have passed since your symptoms first appeared.

If you think you may need healthcare, call first. Your provider can assess whether you need to be seen in a healthcare facility or you should try to recover at home.

• Remember to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow/upper arm
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water or hand sanitizer for at least 20 seconds
• Maintain 6 ft distance between each other

Remember the virus can’t move if you don’t !!

Let’s do what we can to keep Allamakee as safe as possible !!

Fillmore County Seeking Donations for COVID-19 Response

Fillmore County Public Health is now accepting sewn masks, sewn gowns, and sewing materials to address COVID-19 response needs.  The goal is to obtain 5,000 sewn masks and 500 sewn gowns.  Sewing materials accepted include cotton cloth and elastic.  See the Fillmore County Public Health website for a pattern and instructions for making twenty-four masks at a time.  Gown patterns are available on Pinterest or the peek-a-boo Pattern Shop.

Materials are welcome Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 3 PM.  Place donations and forms in the gray tote outside of the upper level of the Fillmore County Office Building located at 902 Houston Street NW, Preston, MN  55965.  Please call 507-765-2642 with questions.  Thanks for your help and support!

Fillmore County Public Health

902 Houston Street NW, Suite 2

Preston, MN 55965

Fax:  507-765-2139

Due to COVID-19, the museum will remain closed for the entire month of May. We hope to re-open June 1, but will make that decision at a later time.

Updates will be posted on our website lauraingallswilder.us and also on the answering machine at 563-735-5916.

Northeast Iowa RC&D is administering a donor sponsored fund to help small businesses in Decorah impacted by COVID-19. The fund will provide up to $500 stipends to qualifying businesses based on need as funding allows. It is anticipated that need will outpace the fund, but we are hoping to help as many as possible. The link to apply can be found here:

https://northeastiowarcd.org/small-business-fund/

Orders will include a coupon for a carnation from Country Garden in Decorah.  Once orders are ready an email will be sent with instructions for curbside pick-up…however we would encourage the shipping option.  Thank you for supporting the Decorah area businesses and Stay Safe!

https://decorahstronglocal.itemorder.com/sale?fbclid=IwAR18q6OCqsuf3cMfOzUkTSb6Dp6jJU1FGF1ivxLJ9MK-9nEIhPlOYFLhafM

Northeast Iowa RC&D is administering a donor sponsored fund to help small businesses in Decorah impacted by COVID-19. The fund will provide up to $500 stipends to qualifying businesses based on need as funding allows. It is anticipated that need will outpace the fund, but we are hoping to help as many as possible. Click below for more information.

We would like to invite your churches to ring your bells  with us in an UNITED SOUND  of  compassion , hope , peace and celebration on EASTER SUNDAY  10 a.m. for five-SIX  minutes…and we also invite  all members of your congregations to  step outside their homes and join in the UNITED RING with us!

WE need to celebrate,  and we must pray and continue to do so in the next weeks.  LET’S MAKE A UNITED EFFORT..and if we are loud enough , we might catch the sound, and know we are together in faith and in the promise of the RESURRECTED CHRIST!  10 a.m. EASTER SUNDAY FOR FIVE -SIX MINUES!

PLEASE GET THE WORD TO ALL YOUR PEOPLE  AND IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD! AND RING THOSE CHURCH BELLS AS LOUDLY AS YOU CAN!  Be sure the kids have noise makers, pots and pans and whatever to join in!

COVID-19: Treatment at Home

By Dr. Michele Dikkers, Chair of Clayton County Board of Health

COVID-19 has perplexed all of us, creating many questions and concerns. Probably the most pertinent concern, for our community and your care staff, is what to do if you come down with COVID-19.

If you develop fever, cough/respiratory symptoms or shortness of breath, you may be infected. We know that 80% of the time, you will be able to manage your symptoms at home. If you have symptoms, follow these suggestions:

• Stay at home, do not leave your home except for medical care.
• Separate yourself from others in your home. Stay in a “sick room” if possible.
• Avoid sharing personal household items (like dishes, glasses, cups, eating utensils, towels, bedding, etc.).
• Get rest and stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious foods. Humidification may help the breathing. Even though you need to rest, remember to get some activity to help expand your lungs, walking in your room or the hallway may be all you can tolerate, but can help.
• Use acetaminophen (Tylenol) as needed.
• Clean high touch surfaces daily: counters, doorknobs, phones, remotes, key boards, etc.

Monitor your symptoms carefully. If your symptoms worsen, or you have concerns, contact your medical provider by calling their office. Your provider can assess whether you need to be seen in the office, or if you can recover at home. Also, there may be options for your provider to evaluate you via telehealth or telemedicine.

There are isolation recommendations for those with COVID-19, and those with fever or respiratory symptoms. You should stay at home and isolate from others in the house until:

1. You have had no fever for at least 72 hours (3 full days) without use of medicines that reduce fever

AND

2. Other symptoms have improved/resolved

AND

3. It has been at least 7 days since your symptoms first appeared.

Isolation is also recommended for those that live with someone who has symptoms of COVID-19 or have tested positive for COVID-19. They should stay at home for 14 days after the last exposure.

Remember, if you have questions, call your provider. Most are now able to evaluate patients via the phone and computer, this is referred to as Telehealth and Telemedicine.

We are in this together.

VMH Community & Home Care
40 1st Street SE
Waukon, IA 52172
(563) 568-5660

Allamakee County Specific COVID-19 Statistics
Through April 10, 2020

Total Cases to date 20
Cases Requiring Hospitalization 4
Deaths due to COVID 1
Recovered/ Off Isolation 15
Number of tests sent to State Hygienic Lab *** 63
Number of negative tests processed at SHL 43
Number of tests pending at SHL 3

***We are not able to track the number of negative tests done on Allamakee residents at reference labs such as Gundersen, Mayo, University of Iowa, etc… All positive tests done are reported to IDPH (Iowa Dept. of Public Health) who notifies Allamakee County Public Health to initiate follow up.

Recommendations for people with illness
DO NOT GO TO WORK OR LEAVE YOUR HOME IF YOU ARE ILL
Stay home and isolate from others in the house until:
• You have had no fever for at least 72 hours (that is 3 full days of no fever without the use of fever reducing medications)
• Other symptoms have improved (for example, when your cough or shortness of breath have improved)
• At least 7 days have passed since your symptoms first appeared.

If you think you may need healthcare, call first. Your provider can assess whether you need to be seen in a healthcare facility or you should try to recover at home.

• Remember to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow/upper arm
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water or hand sanitizer for at least 20 seconds
• Maintain 6 ft distance between each other

Remember the virus can’t move if you don’t !!
Let’s do what we can to keep Allamakee as safe as possible !!

Gundersen Eye Clinics close temporarily due to COVID-19

With patient health and safety in mind during the COVID-19 pandemic, Gundersen Health System will temporarily close some of its Eye Clinics effective Monday, April 13.

Temporary closures include Gundersen Eye Clinics in:

Wisconsin
Black River Falls
Friendship
Hillsboro
Onalaska
Prairie du Chien
Richland Center
Sparta
Whitehall

Iowa
Waukon

Essential Gundersen Eye Care (no routine appointments) is available at locations in La Crosse, Tomah, Winona, Decorah and Viroqua Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
If you need information from one of these locations or have questions, please call (608) 782-7300 or (toll free) (800) 362-9567.

The temporary closures may change as Gundersen monitors the COVID-19 pandemic.

News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 9, 2020

Contact: Nancy Sacquitne RN, BSN 563-382-4662 | nsacquitne@winneshiekhealth.org

Winneshiek County Public Health Advises Against Easter Travels

Easter and spring holidays are a traditional time of family gatherings, celebrations and observances. Like many other events and activities, Winneshiek County Public Health advises residents that these observances should be different this year.

“We know many families gather together over Easter and Passover,” said Winneshiek County Public Health Director Krista Vanden Brink, “But, like school, shopping and most other activities, we’re asking residents to modify their plans in light of COVID-19.”

Remain attentive to staying home if at all possible. Limit doing essential errands to one time per week and send only one (1) family member to do those errands.

Gatherings of family and friends, whether in Winneshiek County, or by travel to other states, is discouraged. When people come together, the chances of  spreading the COVID19 virus grow. Although people with symptoms of the virus (coughing, fever and shortness of breath) obviously should not be around other people, even those who are seemingly well should do the same. “We are learning that some people with coronavirus don’t have any symptoms, and that even those who later develop symptoms can pass the virus to others before showing symptoms. This is why even people who do not feel ill should stay home,” said Vanden Brink.

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control) is highly recommending wearing a mask in public – these can be homemade cloth masks. It is important to remember to maintain good hand washing whenever at home or out doing errands to keep your hands clean.

Families and friends are encouraged to find alternate ways to observe holidays and to stay connected. Try Skype, Zoom, FaceTime or other electronic means of connecting, and phone calls and letters are especially welcome during this time of social distancing.

As of today, April 9, 2020 there are 5 cases of COVID-19 in Winneshiek County.

Winneshiek County Public Health continues to work closely with the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH), and other state and local partners to respond to this ongoing pandemic. Currently, three cases have completed isolation and are able to return to work or be out in the community. Follow-up is done with the positive cases by Winneshiek County Public Health.

For up-to-date information on COVID-19, visit the IDPH webpage at https://idph.iowa.gov/Emerging-Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus and follow the
department on Facebook at @IowaDepartmentOfPublicHealth and on Twitter at @IAPublicHealth.
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News release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media contact: Morgan Hawk (319) 786-4040 | morganhawk@alliantenergy.com

Alliant Energy gives $1 million to Hometown Care Energy Fund Donation helps income-eligible customers in Iowa with energy costs

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – April 9, 2020 – Alliant Energy (NASDAQ: LNT) is making a $1 million donation to its Hometown Care Energy Fund in Iowa. The fund assists customers that need financial help to pay their bill.

Alliant Energy knows that many customers may face financial hardship due to the coronavirus (COVID19) pandemic. This contribution shows Alliant Energy’s ongoing commitment to serve customers in Iowa and help those in need.

The Hometown Care Energy Fund is supported annually with funds from Alliant Energy shareowners, as well as voluntary contributions from employees, retirees and customers.

“We know that many customers need help paying their bill or may need additional help due to the pandemic,” said Linda Mattes, Vice President of Customer and IT Operations at Alliant Energy. “We are coming together with customers, employees, retirees and shareowners to help our neighbors.”

Alliant Energy partners with nonprofit organizations in Iowa to distribute the funds. Customers can review income eligibility requirements and apply for funding by contacting the Community Action Agency.

If you or someone you know is having difficulty paying a bill, visit the new Alliant Energy My Account site to set up a payment plan based on ability to pay. On My Account, customers can also set up fee-free credit card payments, review account information and report outages.

The contributions by Alliant Energy’s shareowners are not included in the rates charged to customers.

More information on the Hometown Care Energy Fund can be found at alliantenergy.com/hometown care.

For tips to reduce energy use and save money, Alliant Energy shares 10 tips.

Alliant Energy Corporation (NASDAQ: LNT) provides regulated energy service to 970,000 electric and 420,000 natural gas custom ers across Iowa and Wisconsin. Alliant Energy’s mission is to deliver the energy solutions and exceptional service customers and communities count on – safely, efficiently and responsibly. Interstate Power and Light Company and Wisconsin Power and Light Company are Alliant Energy’s two public energy companies. Alliant Energy is a component of the Nasdaq CRD Sustainability Index, Bloomberg’s 2020 Gender-Equality Index, and the S&P 500. For more information, visit  alliantenergy.com and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagramand Twitter.

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ANR010-20

Preventing Outbreaks
Businesses should implement measures to enable social distancing as much as possible.

• Consider staggering shifts to reduce worker population at any given time.
• Stagger breaks to reduce staff interactions.
• Review procedures to identify ways to increase the physical separation of staff.
• Businesses should prioritize hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette among employees.
• Businesses should provide or allow employees to wear their own homemade cloth facemasks.
• Businesses should provide hand sanitizer or handwashing opportunities as frequently as possible.

Detecting Outbreaks
Screen all employees by taking their temperature and assessing for cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing or any other respiratory symptom at the beginning and end of each shift. For a screening algorithm click here.

Exclude all employees reporting fever or respiratory symptoms (these cases will be directed to stay home and isolate themselves from other people and animals in the home) until they:

• Have had no fever for at least 72 hours (that is three full days of no fever without the use of medicine that reduces fevers) AND
•  Other symptoms have improved (for example, when your cough or shortness of breath have improved) AND
• At least 7 days have passed since your symptoms first appeared.

Exclusion criteria must be followed with all symptomatic employees, regardless of whether the testing is completed (even if the employee tests negative for COVID-19 infection).

Please report to the Iowa Department of Public Health when 10% or greater of your employees are reporting COVID-19 symptoms (including fever, cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing, or any other respiratory symptom). Report to public health by filling out the survey at this link: https://redcap.idph.state.ia.us/surveys/?s=NRJ4FDMDPN

Managing Outbreaks
Coordinate with your occupational health provider to define a pathway to test symptomatic employees.

• Public health will approve State Hygienic Laboratory testing for symptomatic employees during outbreaks.
• The occupational health provider or employees’ personal health providers will be responsible for collecting the nasopharyngeal swab for testing and following-up for medical care as needed.

When employees test positive for COVID-19 infection, public health and occupational health will work jointly to investigate cases and identify the following contacts:

• household contacts,
• rideshare partners, and
• co-workers with prolonged contact (within 6 feet of the case for at least 30 minutes).

All of these contacts will be directed to stay at home and isolate themselves from other people and animals in the home for 14 days after the last known exposure to a person with COVID-19

Businesses should consider excluding high-risk employees when outbreaks are ongoing. High-risk employees would include:

• People aged 65 years and older
• People of all ages with underlying medical conditions, particularly if not well controlled, including:
  • People with chronic lung disease or moderate to severe asthma
  • People who have serious heart conditions
  • People who are immunocompromised
• Many conditions can cause a person to be immunocompromised, including cancer treatment, smoking, bone marrow or organ transplantation, immune deficiencies, poorly controlled HIV or AIDS, and prolonged use of corticosteroids and other immune weakening medications
  • People with severe obesity (body mass index [BMI] ≥40)
  • People with diabetes
  • People with chronic kidney disease undergoing dialysis
  • People with liver disease

Business decisions to close, should be based upon workforce availability and the ability to follow the recommended measures outlined above.

* Outbreaks are defined as greater than 10% of employees ill with COVID-19 symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing, or other respiratory symptoms)

To conserve our masks for use by our health care workers, we are asking that anyone entering Winneshiek Medical Center for an appointment, urgent or emergency care, or otherwise, wear their own mask, scarf or face covering. If you do not have anything that can cover your mouth and nose, we do have some masks at each screening area (Main Entrance and Emergency) for use. Thank you for your understanding.

Tips for Managing Electric Use During COVID-19

Cresco, IA | Rushford, MN (10 a.m. April 8, 2020)— As local families and businesses transition to remote-work and distance learning, they may see a surge in home energy use – and in upcoming electric bills.

“MiEnergy Cooperative understands the increased financial hardships facing families and businesses due to the economic impact of COVID-19,” said Brian Krambeer, president/CEO. “If you are having difficulty paying your electric bill, please give us a call so we can set up a payment plan. We will work through this together.”

Simple money-saving steps can help lower monthly electric bills without jeopardizing safety or comfort. It’s important for families to be mindful of their energy use and consider adjusting certain habits to avoid higher costs later on.

Recommended energy-saving tips include:

• Program your thermostat to maximize energy savings. Setting your thermostat one degree lower when heating or one degree higher when cooling can reduce energy use by up to 5%.
• Do full loads of laundry and wash with cold water. Using warm water instead of hot can cut a load’s energy use in half and using cold water will save even more.
• Air dry dishes.  This step can cut your dishwasher’s energy use by up to 50%.
• Substitute LEDs for conventional light bulbs. Lighting can amount to up to 12% of monthly energy use. LED bulbs can cut lighting costs by 75%.
• Unplug appliances and electronics when not in use. Small appliances and electronics use energy even when not in use. When powered on, game consoles, televisions and similar electronics are responsible for up to 12% of energy use.

The cooperative’s website, www.MiEnergy.coop, has online energy use guides available including 101 Easy Ways to Save Energy and Money. Another tool for members of MiEnergy is SmartHub. Creating an account allows users to track their hourly, daily, monthly and yearly electric use. Find it online at www.MiEnergy.coop or search for SmartHub where apps are downloaded.

MiEnergy Cooperative is a member-owned electric distribution cooperative and is the result of a merger between Hawkeye REC, of Cresco, Iowa and Tri-County Electric Cooperative, of Rushford, Minn. in 2017. It maintains 5,500 miles of power lines covering most of Fillmore, Houston and Winona counties in Minnesota and Chickasaw, Howard and Winneshiek counties in Iowa. The cooperative also serves small pockets bordering those counties. It provides electricity to more than 18,800 members in northeastern Iowa and southeastern Minnesota. MiEnergy is a Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

Scammers are taking advantage of fears surrounding the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) to steal money and personal information. Don’t let them.

• Hang up on robocalls.
• Scammers are using illegal robocalls to pitch everything from scam Coronavirus treatments to work-at-home schemes.
• Verify information.
• Contact trusted sources to confirm information is correct. For the most up-to-date information about the Coronavirus, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at www.cdc.gov.
• Know who you’re buying from.
• Online sellers may claim to have in-demand products, like cleaning, household, and health and medical supplies when, in fact, they don’t.
• Don’t click on links from sources you don’t know. They could download viruses onto your computer or device.
• Do your homework.
• Don’t let anyone rush you into making a donation. If someone wants donations in cash, by gift card, or by wiring money, don’t do it.
• Protect Yourself Southern District of Iowa

If you believe you were a victim of a scam, call local law enforcement and file a complaint online or by phone:

Report Coronavirus Fraud

National Center for Disaster
Fraud (NCDF): 1-866-720-5721;
disaster@leo.gov
www.IC3.gov (cyber)
Additional Information
www.cdc.gov
www.coronavirus.gov
www.FDA.gov
ftc.gov/coronavirus
www.justice.gov/usao-sdia
Southern District of Iowa

Gundersen temporarily reduces staff due to COVID-19

Gundersen Health System is temporarily reducing staffing levels across its system through furloughs and reduction in hours for some staff. This decision will allow Gundersen to address the financial stress created by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and direct essential services and resources to an anticipated increase in COVID-19 care and treatment needs.

Specific numbers of staff who will be impacted by furloughs and reduced hours are not yet known. Gundersen will support impacted staff with all available resources.

“We have been intensely focused on the safety of our patients, visitors and staff,” said Gundersen chief executive officer Scott Rathgaber, MD. “We have planned for a potential surge in COVID-19 patients and worked to preserve our resources and supplies to be ready. We also cancelled elective and non-essential procedures and appointments to help reduce the potential spread of COVID-19 in our communities, conserve protective equipment, and ensure hospital capacity for the surge.”

While the organization is working on the frontlines in the fight against COVID-19, Dr. Rathgaber explains Gundersen and the healthcare industry are not immune to the financial and economic stress caused by the global pandemic.

Depending on the Gundersen service and location, the organization has seen a 40 to 80% decrease in business operations due to, among other actions, the cancellation of procedures and appointments as a COVID-19 health and safety measure.

“Furloughs and reduced hours are clearly difficult actions. But these are temporary actions,” Dr. Rathgaber said. “We plan to bring staff back to fully serve the needs of our patients and communities when our procedures and appointments can safely return to normal operations.”

Gundersen remains extremely grateful for the community support and significant contributions to limiting the spread of COVID-19 through social distancing and hand hygiene guidelines. Individual actions contribute to a successful response to this unprecedented challenge.

Individuals with questions of a legal nature should call the COVID-19 Legal Information Hotline at 1-800-332-0419. It was developed in partnership with Iowa Legal Aid, the Iowa State Bar Association and the Polk County Volunteer Lawyer Project. The hotline can assist Iowans with business and compliance issues, eviction, denial of unemployment benefits, employment issues and other personal legal concerns. You will be asked to leave a message and someone will return your call.

Recommendation Regarding the Use of Cloth Face Coverings, Especially in Areas of Significant Community-Based Transmission

Use of Cloth Face Coverings to Help Slow the Spread of COVID-19

CDC continues to study the spread and effects of the novel coronavirus across the United States. We now know from recent studies that a significant portion of individuals with coronavirus lack symptoms (“asymptomatic”) and that even those who eventually develop symptoms (“pre-symptomatic”) can transmit the virus to others before showing symptoms. This means that the virus can spread between people interacting in close proximity—for example, speaking, coughing, or sneezing—even if those people are not exhibiting symptoms. In light of this new evidence, CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings  where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.

It is critical to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet social distancing remains important to slowing the spread of the virus. CDC is additionally advising the use of simple cloth face coverings to slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others. Cloth face coverings fashioned from household items or made at home from common materials at low cost can be used as an additional, voluntary public health measure.

The cloth face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Those are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders, as recommended by current CDC guidance.

This recommendation complements and does not replace the President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America, 30 Days to Slow the Spread, which remains the cornerstone of our national effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus. CDC will make additional recommendations as the evidence regarding appropriate public health measures continues to develop.

IOWA DNR FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 6, 2020

Governor Reynolds orders campgrounds, cabins, yurts and playgrounds close temporarily

DES MOINES, Iowa — In a proactive effort to prevent further spread of Covid-19, this morning Governor Reynolds signed a proclamation closing all public campgrounds, cabins and yurts temporarily, as well as all outdoor playgrounds through April 30.

The proclamation goes into effect at 8:00 a.m. tomorrow. Those with reservations will be contacted directly by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources’ Parks, Forests and Preserves Bureau.

State Parks, Forests and Preserves remain open during this time for day use opportunities, but visitors are reminded to strictly abide the social distancing rules and not gather in groups. Remember to stay home if you feel sick, wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your face, and bring supplies from home including disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer and other hygiene products. All restroom facilities, including pit latrines and port-a-potties, are closed until April 30 as well.

Governor Reynolds’ and the DNR’s top priority is the health and well-being of our visitors, volunteers and staff. Thank you for your patience and flexibility during this time. We appreciate your support of the Department and our state parks as we all work together to keep everyone safe.

These closures will be reevaluated in the future to determine if an extension is necessary.

For more information on State Park closures visit: https://www.iowadnr.gov/Places-toGo/State-Parks/Alerts-and-Closures.For more information on what the Iowa DNR is doing to respond to Covid-19 and what is being impacted, visit: https://www.iowadnr.gov/AboutDNR/Covid-19.

IOWA DNR
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 6, 2020
Governor Reynolds orders campgrounds, cabins, yurts
and playgrounds close temporarily
MEDIA CONTACT: Alex Murphy, DNR Director of Communications,
Alex.Murphy@dnr.iowa.gov, (515) 729-7533.
DES MOINES, Iowa — In a proactive effort to prevent further spread of Covid-19, this
morning Governor Reynolds signed a proclamation closing all public campgrounds, cabins
and yurts temporarily, as well as all outdoor playgrounds through April 30.
The proclamation goes into effect at 8:00 a.m. tomorrow. Those with reservations will be
contacted directly by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources’ Parks, Forests and
Preserves Bureau.
State Parks, Forests and Preserves remain open during this time for day use opportunities,
but visitors are reminded to strictly abide the social distancing rules and not gather in
groups. Remember to stay home if you feel sick, wash your hands regularly, avoid touching
your face, and bring supplies from home including disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer and
other hygiene products. All restroom facilities, including pit latrines and port-a-potties, are
closed until April 30 as well.
Governor Reynolds’ and the DNR’s top priority is the health and well-being of our visitors,
volunteers and staff. Thank you for your patience and flexibility during this time. We
appreciate your support of the Department and our state parks as we all work together to
keep everyone safe.
These closures will be reevaluated in the future to determine if an extension is necessary.
For more information on State Park closures visit: https://www.iowadnr.gov/Places-toGo/State-Parks/Alerts-and-Closures.For more information on what the Iowa DNR is doing to
respond to Covid-19 and what is being impacted, visit: https://www.iowadnr.gov/AboutDNR/Covid-19.

Allamakee County Specific COVID-19 Statistics Through April 5, 2020

Total Cases to date                                                                    17

Cases Requiring Hospitalization                                            4

Deaths due to COVID                                                                1

Recovered/ Off Isolation                                                          13

Number of tests sent to State Hygienic Lab ***                  59

Number of negative tests processed at SHL                         42

Number of tests pending at SHL                                            3

***We are not able to track the number of negative tests done on Allamakee residents at reference labs such as Gundersen, Mayo, University of Iowa, etc… All positive tests done are reported to IDPH (Iowa Dept. of Public Health) who notifies Allamakee County Public Health to initiate follow up.

Recommendations for people with illness

DO NOT GO TO WORK OR LEAVE YOUR HOME IF YOU ARE ILL

Stay home and isolate from others in the house until:

• You have had no fever for at least 72 hours (that is 3 full days of no fever without the use of fever reducing medications)
• Other symptoms have improved (for example, when your cough or shortness of breath have improved)
• At least 7 days have passed since your symptoms first appeared.

If you think you may need healthcare, call first. Your provider can assess whether you need to be seen in a healthcare facility or you should try to recover at home.

• Remember to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow/upper arm
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water or hand sanitizer for at least 20 seconds
• Maintain 6 ft distance between each other

Remember the virus can’t move if you don’t!

Let’s do what we can to keep Allamakee as safe as possible!

VMH Community & Home Care
40 1^st Street SE
Waukon, IA 52172

(563) 568-5660

DATE:  April 6, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  Decorah Egg Hunt

PRESS CONTACT:  Judy Syverson (563) 382-4158, parkrec@decorahia.org

Decorah Parks and Recreation encourages Decorah households and businesses to participate in the Decorah Egg Hunt Monday, April 6 thru Sunday, April 12 by creating and hanging eggs in their windows and storefronts.

Participants are invited to be creative! Eggs can be paper, cardboard, colored, large, small, or even plastic eggs hanging from a string. The goal is for eggs to be seen by walkers and those passing by in their vehicles to create a fun community-wide event in lieu of our annual Egg Hunt that has been cancelled due to COVID-19.

We hope you’ll join us in hanging eggs in windows as well as taking a walk (or drive) outside to search for eggs in your neighborhood and the Decorah community.

Use #DecorahEggHunt to share your creations with us on social media.

Optional picture attached.

This is an official city press release.  Modifications of any kind are prohibited without express written consent of the author.  Any reprint or broadcast of this information must include this entire communication.

In March, Gundersen Medical Foundation’s Microbiology Research Laboratory developed a test that detects coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The test allows Gundersen to produce results in-house for patient testing for COVID-19, reducing the wait time for test results from days to hours.

In addition to this work, Gundersen Medical Foundation’s cancer research team, led by Paraic Kenny, PhD, quickly re-tasked its cancer genome sequencing equipment to focus on COVID-19. Their efforts help to better understand the COVID-19 infections in the La Crosse region and how they relate to the global pandemic.

Dr. Kenny and his team received Institutional Review Board approval to use specimens left over after standard COVID-19 testing is completed and successfully sequenced the complete viral genomes of six of the earliest cases of COVID-19 in La Crosse County.

“At the most basic level, the virus makes occasional ‘spelling mistakes’ when it copies its genome during infection and these mutations are faithfully carried in all subsequent infections by that particular virus,” Dr. Kenny said. “By sequencing the whole viral genome, we have been able to map the different COVID-19 strains currently in La Crosse County. This allows us to go far beyond positive and negative test results to better understand how the virus spreads within our community and healthcare system.”

Gundersen is now contributing to an international effort to understand how the virus evolves as it spreads. Early data have allowed documentation of multiple independent arrivals of different strains of the virus in La Crosse. Several viruses sequenced share molecular fingerprints with viruses that arrived directly in Washington state from China, while others have their origins in strains circulating in France in late-February. The team has also confirmed community spread of one sub strain.

Dr. Kenny’s ability to rapidly profile new cases of the virus may help La Crosse County’s Department of Public Health and Gundersen’s Infectious Disease teams to map how this virus is spreading among individuals in our community.

“The project will help us understand patterns of cluster seeding and spread in the community,” Dr. Kenny said. “By tracking and mapping the sources of individual sub-strain infections, we can quickly understand weak points leading to healthcare worker infection to try to mitigate them and prevent transmission to other staff and patients.”

Use of Homemade Gowns for Patient Care when Commercially produced Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is Unavailable
April 5, 2020
The COVID-19 situation continues to evolve and there is now widespread community transmission across Iowa. There is
a national shortage of PPE, and public and private officials are working to address national and global supply challenges.
Due to the current limitations on PPE, there may come a time during this response when commercially manufactured
gowns are no longer readily available. If commercially-produced gowns are no longer available, healthcare workers can
use homemade cloth gowns during patient care activities. These homemade gowns are not considered PPE since their
ability to protect against COVID-19 has not yet been studied, however if they are the only protection available, they
should be used.
Health care facilities who choose to receive local donations from Iowans should plan for a drop site and provide
direction to volunteers that prevents entry into the health care facility.
Guidance for use of homemade gowns:
• Care should be taken to ensure that HCP do not touch outer surfaces of the gown during care. Reusable (i.e.,
washable) gowns are typically made of polyester or polyester-cotton fabrics.
• Gowns made of these fabrics can be safely laundered according to routine procedures and reused.
• Laundry operations and personnel may need to be augmented to facilitate additional washing loads and cycles.
• Systems should be established to routinely inspect, maintain (e.g., mend a small hole in a gown, replace missing
fastening ties), and replace reusable gowns when needed (e.g., when they are thin or ripped).
Gowns should be prioritized for the following activities:
• During care activities where splashes and sprays are anticipated, which typically includes aerosol generating
procedures.
• During the following high-contact patient care activities that provide opportunities for transfer of pathogens to
the hands and clothing of healthcare providers, such as:
o Dressing, bathing/showering, transferring, providing hygiene, changing linens, changing briefs or
assisting with toileting, device care or use, wound care.
Surgical gowns should be prioritized for surgical and other sterile procedures.
For additional guidance for the use of homemade isolation gowns for extended use and re-use visit the following CDC
website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/ppe-strategy/isolation-gowns.html

COVID-19 Guidance on “Drive-In” Worship
Issued: 4/4/2020
Does Governor Reynolds’s order prohibiting gatherings of more than 10 people prohibit a church from conducting a drivein worship service?
No. People may gather in their vehicles, so long as those attending the service abide by the following measures:
 All persons attending the service must drive up in an enclosed vehicle and remain in that same vehicle during the
entire service. Individuals cannot get out of their vehicle during the service for any reason.
 All vehicle windows, sunroofs and convertible tops must remain closed during the entire service.
No more than 10 people may be in a single vehicle.
People in a single vehicle should be limited to members of the same household who have already been in close
contact with each other and are not sick.
A church hosting a drive-in worship service should take appropriate measures to ensure compliance, including
having church officials or law enforcement available.
Is it safe to distribute food, beverages, communion or other materials?
 No. Food, beverages, communion or other materials should not be distributed before, after or as part of the
service.
Is it safe to collect offering or financial gifts in person?
 Offering should not be collected by ushers going vehicle-to-vehicle or other methods that require in-person
interaction.
 If a church decides it is necessary to collect a physical offering, the safest manner would be a drop-box while
vehicles are leaving the service. Accepting online donations is the best practice.