With the state’s rising COVID-19 numbers and Lucas County’s positive cases, Lucas County Health Center (LCHC) and Lucas County Public Health (LCPH) would like to reassure the community that both organizations are prepared to meet and address the needs of the community.
LCHC and LCPH continue to work closely together to track the numbers, address growing concerns, and prepare their facilities. Both facilities are continuing all necessary healthcare services so as to continue serving the community.
“We are working closely with Lucas County Public Health and already have procedures set in place to keep our patients, staff, and visitors safe,” said Brian Sims, Chief Executive Officer at Lucas County Health Center.
With Lucas County’s first case identified on May 17, Public Health is diligently working to identify anyone who had come into close contact with the person for 10-15 minutes at a distance of six feet or less within the past two weeks.
“We would encourage people not to panic. Coming in close contact doesn’t necessarily mean being in the same room or walking by someone on the street,” said Mary Grismore, Lucas County Public Health Nurse. “Our teams have been preparing for COVID-19 since the start and we are confident we are ready.”
Due to patient privacy requirements, the State of Iowa does not release information that could identify those who have been tested for COVID-19. Only age ranges and the county where they live are being released at this time.
For now, LCHC and LCPH are encouraging community members to continue frequent hand hygiene, follow social distancing guidelines, and only leave the house to go to work or get necessary supplies.
For general questions or information on COVID-19, call 211 or visit www.cdc.gov or coronavirus.iowa.gov.