March 6, 2020

 

Health care is a team sport. Patients benefit when health care teams work together to enhance care coordination. This has taken on an even greater urgency as our country prepares for and responds to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

“Since the start of this outbreak, in a joint effort, Osceola Regional Health Center, Avera Medical Group Sibley and Osceola Community Health Services have worked closely with the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) to monitor potential cases of COVID-19,” said Osceola County Public Health Director, Pam Juber. “We have and will continue to work with our local, state and national partners to be ready in case the virus does come to Iowa.” Osceola County is advising residents about what they can do now to prepare for the potential spread of the novel coronavirus known as COVID-19.

How To Protect Yourself and Loved Ones from COVID-19

Osceola County healthcare organizations are taking many steps to protect staff and patients from COVID-19 in case it spreads to our area. You can also take steps at home by sharing these tips from the CDC with your loved ones:

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
  • Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
  • If you are sick, limit close contact with others as much as possible.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub with at least 60% alcohol.

The CDC has resources to help you and your family learn about COVID-19. These materials can also be printed for patients:

While COVID-19 is a novel virus, about 80 percent of patients can be treated at home. Please note that the CDC does not recommend face masks for the general public. For questions or updates about the coronavirus, please contact Osceola Community Health Services at 712-754-4611.

As with all medical concerns, please call Avera Medical Group Sibley to schedule an appointment at 712-754-3658.  Please notify your provider if you have concerns that you may have COVID-19.  This will help the provider’s office take steps to keep other people from getting infected or exposed.